Direct Answer
A connection schedule is a table or series of standard details in the shop drawing package that defines the connection type, bolt count, plate size, and weld specification for each standard connection condition (by beam size and reaction load). Rather than detailing every connection individually, the engineer specifies a connection schedule and the detailer references it for all matching conditions.
Full Explanation
A typical connection schedule organizes connections by supported beam designation (W12, W14, W16, etc.) and reaction load range. For each combination, the schedule shows: connection type (shear tab, clip angle, end plate), plate or angle size, bolt count and grade, and weld size. The detailer applies the schedule connection to every matching beam-to-support condition in the model. Non-standard conditions that fall outside the schedule are detailed individually with engineer approval.
What This Means for Your Shop
Connection schedules speed detailing but can create problems if a condition falls at the boundary of two schedule entries. If a beam reaction is 49 kips but the schedule only goes to 45 kips, the detailer should flag it as an RFI rather than interpolating.
Common Mistakes
Applying the schedule without checking that all conditions are within the schedule's applicable range. Conditions that exceed the schedule's upper limit or that have unusual geometry (skewed, sloped) require individual design.
Recommended Process
When receiving a connection schedule, review it for completeness: does it cover all beam sizes in your project? Does it cover all reaction load ranges? Flag any gaps as RFIs at the start of detailing — before the model is built.