> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://shortpen.com/docs/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

> Learn how ShortPen QR Codes work. Create, customize, and track dynamic QR Codes that stay functional even after editing your links, with full analytics and brand options.

# What is a QR Code in ShortPen and how to use it?

**Short answer:** In ShortPen, **every QR code is dynamic**. You can change the destination later, and your printed code still works, **unless you change the link (domain or slug)**. If you do, download a fresh QR and reprint.

## What is a QR Code in ShortPen?

A QR code that encodes your **URL** (the domain + slug) for a link in ShortPen.

Because the link is managed by ShortPen, **editing the destination doesn’t break the printed code**. Changing the **URL** does.

## How a ShortPen QR Code works

A QR Code is generated from **one** ShortPen link. When someone scans the QR, ShortPen redirects to the link’s destination and logs a **Scan** for that link (distinct from **Clicks**).

This lets you track offline-to-online performance (e.g., posters, packaging).

<Tip>
  Think of the QR as another way to share the same link, just scannable instead of clickable. Every scan rolls up under that [link's analytics](/analytics/link-level-analytics/link-level-metrics).
</Tip>

## Relationship to the underlying link

* **One QR ↔ One link**

  Each QR belongs to a specific [link](/key-concepts/links-overview) object. Analytics, [folders](/link-management/links-organization/folders), and [tags](/link-management/links-organization/tags) are inherited from that link.
* **Analytics live at link level**

  [Link analytics](/analytics/link-level-analytics/link-level-metrics) Analytics show **Scans** (and unique scans) alongside **Clicks**. [Workspace analytics](/analytics/workspace-level-analytics/workspace-level-metrics) can aggregate across many links.

<Info>
  **Want post-scan attribution?** [Enable event tracking](/link-management/links-settings/enabling-event-tracking) on the link and install the ShortPen Pixel on your site.
</Info>

## How to enable and download you QR

<Card title="How to download and use QR Codes from ShortPen" icon="qrcode" href="/link-management/qr-code/qr-downloading" cta="Go to the guide">
  Generate, customize, and export your ShortPen QR codes for print or digital use in seconds.
</Card>

## When Your QR “Changes”

A QR encodes the **Link** (domain + slug).

* If you only change the **destination URL**, you **don’t** need a new QR.
* If you change the **slug or domain**, you **do** need a new QR.

<Info>
  **Learn more**: [What happens to a QR code after changing a link?](/link-management/qr-code/qr-after-link-change)
</Info>

## Visual Customization (Colors, Logo)

You can customize colors and add a logo when creating/downloading a QR. Customization changes the **appearance**, not the encoded link.

<Info>
  **Learn more**: [How to create and customize QR Codes in ShortPen](/link-management/qr-code/qr-creation)
</Info>

## Where to see QR performance

Open [Links analytics](/analytics/link-level-analytics/link-level-metrics) to see **QR Scans**, plus devices, countries, and sources.

For broader comparisons (e.g., by folder or tag across many placements), use [Workspace/General Analytics](/analytics/workspace-level-analytics/workspace-level-metrics).

## Analytics: Scans vs. Clicks (and Conversions)

ShortPen tracks **Scans** separately from **Clicks**, with totals, uniques, and trends available in analytics.

If you’ve set up events and the Pixel, related conversions can appear in reports

<Tip>
  Full analytics breakdowns and advanced segmentation **may require a paid plan**. Learn more: [Understanding ShortPen plans and limits](/account-billing-security/plans-and-limits/plans-and-limits) for details.
</Tip>

## Practical situations to use ShortPen QR codes

Events, posters, packaging, POS, flyers, and business cards. For multi-placement testing (e.g., 3 posters), create **separate links** so each QR has its own URL.

Then compare performance by [tags](/link-management/links-organization/tags) or [folders](/link-management/links-organization/folders).

<Info>
  **Learn more:** [Best practices for QR Codes in offline campaigns](/link-management/qr-code/qr-best-practices)
</Info>

## FAQ

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="Are ShortPen QR codes static or dynamic?">
    They’re always dynamic. You can change the destination any time by editing the link. Only  URL changes (domain or slug) require a new download.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Do I need to reprint after changing colors or logo?">
    Not required for functionality, but recommended for brand consistency. The encoded URL doesn’t change.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Which format should I download?">
    Use **SVG** for print and design. Use **PNG** or **JPG** for quick digital use.
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

## Related links

* [How to create and customize QR Codes in ShortPen](/link-management/qr-code/qr-creation)
* [How to download and use QR Codes from ShortPen](/link-management/qr-code/qr-downloading)
* [Best practices for QR Codes in offline campaigns](/link-management/qr-code/qr-best-practices)
* [What is a link in ShortPen?](/key-concepts/links-overview)
* [How to create a link in ShortPen](/getting-started/create-first-link)