> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.optionalpha.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.optionalpha.com/tools/finding-trades/scanners.md).

# Scanners

{% embed url="<https://vimeo.com/1052337610>" %}

Scanner automations typically begin with a [symbol loop](/tools/bots/loops.md) and a subsequent list of one or more [decisions](/tools/bots/decision-actions.md), ending with an 'Open Position' action.

Here is an example of a scanner that evaluates the market and opens a bullish or bearish credit spread depending on the current conditions:

<figure><img src="/files/h4UVbPPFxjDvUELMXtpu" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

### Open Position action

The 'Open Position' action includes all the position's details, including the symbol, expiration, strike prices, position sizing, [SmartPricing](/tools/bots/smartpricing.md) settings, [Exit Options](/tools/managing-positions/exit-options.md), and any [tags](/tools/bots/tags.md) you may want automatically applied to the position that is opened.

<figure><img src="/files/fEds8d0b58mSKTFwMger" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

We can also define one or more entry criteria:

<figure><img src="/files/henDvoLe6fGS1DkHDJMj" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

As well as position criteria to set minimum and maximum values for specific variables, which the bot will filter out if your criteria aren't met:

<figure><img src="/files/H3PUvQbppKltIuWHG1wM" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>