# Getting Started

## What is scouting?

Scouting is **searching for each A-Rank hunt mark location and marking them** so that they are readily available for the conductor to call during the hunt train.

Locations are marked by in-game flags, or shared using [browser-based external tools](https://trainguide.ffxivhunts.com/scouting/tools).

## How do I scout?

First, you will check each spawn location to search where the A-Ranks have spawned.

You may reference spawn locations on [Faloop](https://faloop.app/) in the A-Rank Tab or [Cable Monkey Hunt Maps](https://cablemonkey.us/huntmap2/).

Next, once you have found a mark, you will generate an in-game flag via typing commands in the chat box. This can be done by either typing `<pos>` while hovering over the A-Rank, or by typing `<flag>` after placing a flag on your map.&#x20;

### How to place a flag manually on your map

Detailed instructions with images can be found on the [Official UI Guide](https://na.finalfantasyxiv.com/uiguide/communication/communication-chat/chat_flag.html).

&#x20;**Mouse and Keyboard:** <mark style="background-color:blue;">CTRL + Right Click</mark> while your cursor hovers over the spot on your map.

**Controller:** <mark style="background-color:blue;">L1 + R1</mark> while your cursor hovers over that spot on your map.

### Use a macro to generate flags easily

Experienced scouts use a macro to generate flags upon finding an A-Rank. [The following page in this guide](https://trainguide.ffxivhunts.com/conducting/macros) provides an explanation of macros.

## How do I pass scouts to the conductor?

If you are not the one conducting the train, you will pass on the A-Rank locations via one or both of the following:

* Giving them the flags in-game through a shared chat
* Using a [scouting tool](https://trainguide.ffxivhunts.com/scouting/tools) and sharing the unique link via Discord, in-game chat, or other communication platforms.

## When can I start scouting?

You may start scouting at any point after the A-Ranks come off of cooldown. They will not all be guaranteed to be spawned until they are capped, however, you may still search early if you wish.

Reference the[ A-Rank Windows](https://trainguide.ffxivhunts.com/a-rank-windows) to understand how to read [Trackers](https://trainguide.ffxivhunts.com/trackers).