Top 10 Best Fan Rake Hacks You Need to Try Now!

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This post contains affiliate links. Which means I may earn a small commission when make a purchase through my links, at no additional cost to you.

Raking leaves and garden debris can quickly become a tedious task, especially when your tools aren’t up to the job. A fan rake can make yard cleanup easier, but choosing the right one matters. The best fan rake combines durability, comfort, and efficient leaf gathering to help you maintain a tidy outdoor space with less effort.

This type of rake is suitable for homeowners who want a reliable tool for leaf collection without damaging grass or plants. Depending on the model, you might find features like adjustable tines or lightweight handles that improve usability.

In this review, we will cover key aspects such as design, build quality, ease of use, and value for money. By the end, you should have a clearer idea of which fan rake fits your gardening needs.

Discover the Top Choices for Efficient and Versatile Yard Cleanup

ImageProductPrice
Top Pick 1
TABOR TOOLS J16A Adjustable Metal Leaf Rake with Expandable Head 8-23″, Collapsible
Check Price
Top Pick 2
Bond Manufacturing LH013 Fan Rake with Telescopic Handle & Non-Slip Grip, Red
Check Price
Top Pick 3
Black+Decker BD1537 Steel Fan Rake
Check Price

1. TABOR TOOLS J16A Adjustable Metal Leaf Rake with Expandable Head 8-23″, Collapsible

/

Maintaining a neat and tidy lawn becomes effortless with the TABOR TOOLS J16A Adjustable Metal Leaf Rake. Designed to handle everything from leaves to grass clippings, this versatile rake adapts to a variety of yard cleaning tasks.

The adjustable head expands widely for broad sweeping yet narrows to access tight spots without damaging delicate plants. Whether clearing pine straw across your lawn or reaching beneath garden beds, this rake offers impressive flexibility.

Constructed with a durable telescopic steel handle, this rake adjusts from 32 to 63 inches, allowing users of different heights to work comfortably. The locking mechanism keeps the handle firmly in place throughout use.

It locks securely at any width to suit your specific task.

Galvanized steel teeth resist rust, ensuring longevity even after exposure to moisture. The fan-shaped rake folds down to a compact profile, making it simple to store in small spaces like sheds or vehicle compartments. The rake is ideal for quick lawn cleanups but is not intended for heavy debris or cement removal.

Its lightweight build reduces fatigue during prolonged use.

Offering excellent value through its combination of adjustability, durable materials, and user-friendly design, this garden tool suits homeowners seeking an adaptable and easy-to-store leaf rake. TABOR TOOLS also provides customer support for questions or replacement parts, enhancing user confidence in the product’s quality.

Pros

  • Expandable head from 8″ to 23″ for versatile cleaning
  • Telescopic, lightweight steel handle adjusts from 32″ to 63″
  • Rust-resistant galvanized steel teeth for durability

Cons

  • Not designed for heavy-duty or masonry debris removal

The TABOR TOOLS J16A Adjustable Metal Leaf Rake combines flexible design and durable construction to streamline yard work. Its versatility and ease of storage make it a practical choice for regular lawn maintenance compared to fixed-width rakes.

2. Bond Manufacturing LH013 Fan Rake with Telescopic Handle & Non-Slip Grip, Red

/

Maintaining a tidy yard becomes effortless with the Bond Manufacturing LH013 Fan Rake. Designed for reliability and comfort, it blends durability with practical features to simplify raking tasks.

The adjustable handle and sturdy build make it a dependable tool for various outdoor chores.

Every gardener will appreciate how the rust-resistant powder coating protects the rake from weather wear. Its heat-treated metal head ensures lasting performance, making it easier to manage leaves, grass, and debris.

The rake’s lightweight steel handle extends from 25 to 37 inches, allowing users to reach hard-to-access areas without strain. A soft, non-slip grip provides steady control, reducing hand fatigue during prolonged use. The balanced construction helps deliver consistent results with less effort.

Built in the United States, quality and durability are carefully integrated into each component. The fan rake performs well on diverse lawn surfaces, gathering debris efficiently without damaging the turf.

Ideal for homeowners and gardeners who want a practical rake for seasonal cleanups, it combines function and ease. Compared to many standard rakes, this model offers enhanced reach and grip stability.

Its reasonable weight and compact storage options make it a versatile addition to yard equipment.

Pros

  • Rust-resistant powder-coated heat-treated head for extended durability
  • Telescoping steel handle adjusts between 25 and 37 inches for added reach
  • Soft, non-slip grip enhances user comfort and control during raking

Cons

  • Handle length adjustment may require occasional tightening to prevent slipping

The Bond Manufacturing LH013 Fan Rake offers solid build quality and user-friendly features. It stands out as a practical rake option for maintaining a clean and neat lawn with minimal hassle.

3. Black+Decker BD1537 Steel Fan Rake

/

Experience effortless yard maintenance with the Black+Decker BD1537 Steel Fan Rake. Designed to tackle leaves and debris efficiently, this tool combines durability with user comfort.

Its sturdy construction and thoughtful design make outdoor chores quicker and more effective.

Built for reliability, the fan rake features a powder-coated finish that resists rust and wear. The molded soft grip handle ensures a firm, comfortable hold during extended use. Ideal for maintaining lawns, gardens, and patios, this rake helps gather leaves without damaging delicate surfaces.

Ideal for maintaining lawns, gardens, and patios, this rake helps gather leaves without damaging delicate surfaces.

Crafted from high-quality steel, the Black+Decker BD1537 offers excellent strength and longevity. Its 5-inch width allows precise raking in tight spots while covering enough ground efficiently. The durable powder-coat finish safeguards against corrosion, extending the tool’s life even with frequent outdoor use.

The soft grip handle minimizes hand fatigue and provides better control, making yard work less strenuous.

Performance-wise, this fan rake handles leaf collection smoothly, ideal for typical garden tasks. The comfortable grip and sturdy build offer a balance between ease of use and reliability. Backed by a three-year warranty, it assures consistent performance over time.

Backed by a three-year warranty, it assures consistent performance over time. Suitable for homeowners and gardeners needing a dependable rake, its construction holds up under various conditions. Compared to plastic or thinner metal rakes, this model stands out for its robust design and durability, supporting heavier workloads without bending or breaking.

Pros

  • Durable powder-coated steel resists rust and wear
  • Comfortable molded soft grip handle reduces hand strain
  • Compact 5-inch width ideal for precision raking

Cons

  • Smaller width may require more passes for large areas

The Black+Decker BD1537 Steel Fan Rake offers a perfect combination of durability and comfort. Its strong build and user-friendly features make it a reliable choice for regular garden maintenance tasks.

4. Colwelt Hand Rake 16.5″, Small Rake for Gardening with 9 Resilient Flat

/

The Colwelt Hand Rake 5 is thoughtfully designed for gardeners needing precision and ease in confined spaces.

Its compact size and durable build make it ideal for detailed garden care where larger tools fall short. Navigate tight spots effortlessly while protecting your delicate plants with this nimble hand rake.

Experience smooth soil preparation and debris clearing in flower beds, containers, or borders. This hand rake blends versatility and control, making gardening tasks more enjoyable and effective.

Crafted from high-tension carbon steel with an anti-rust coating, the nine flat tines deliver both strength and gentleness. They break through tough soil and weeds without bending while carefully collecting leaves and debris without harm. The flat design prevents clogging, allowing for smooth and uninterrupted use in various gardening scenarios.

The flat design prevents clogging, allowing for smooth and uninterrupted use in various gardening scenarios.

The 5-inch length lets you work in narrow spaces unreachable by full-sized rakes, perfect for pruning around hydrangeas, roses, and other delicate plants. Its lightweight construction, just 4 lbs, paired with a textured non-slip handle, provides excellent balance and grip.

Its lightweight construction, just 4 lbs, paired with a textured non-slip handle, provides excellent balance and grip. This reduces wrist fatigue, supporting longer garden sessions with precision and confidence.

Storage is convenient with a built-in hanging hole that helps keep your workspace tidy. Whether tending small herb gardens or detailed flowerbeds, the Colwelt hand rake adapts to your precise gardening needs. Its build quality and practical features offer significant value for homeowners and professional gardeners alike.

Its build quality and practical features offer significant value for homeowners and professional gardeners alike.

Pros

  • Compact size reaches tight garden areas with ease
  • Durable carbon steel tines resist rust and bending
  • Lightweight handle with textured grip reduces wrist strain

Cons

  • Smaller size may not suit large-scale raking tasks

This hand rake is a dependable choice for gardeners requiring accuracy and durability in confined space work. Its thoughtful design and quality materials make outdoor upkeep easier and more precise compared to general-purpose rakes.

5. Gardena 3103 Combisystem 12-Inch To 20-Inch Adjustable Metal Fan Rake Head, Silver

/

Gardena’s Combisystem adjustable metal fan rake head offers exceptional versatility for your outdoor tasks. Its ability to change working width makes it a practical choice for various raking needs. Designed with durable materials, it aims to deliver reliable performance season after season.

Whether you’re handling coarse leaves or fine debris, this fan rake head’s adjustable tine spacing adapts accordingly. The zinc-plated spring-steel prongs provide a balance of flexibility and strength.

Sold as head only, it fits most Gardena Combisystem handles for customizable convenience.

The Gardena 3103 fan rake head excels in adaptability thanks to its adjustable working width from 12 to 20 inches. This range allows efficient raking in tight spots and open areas alike.

Its flexible spring-steel prongs effectively gather different types of yard waste without damaging delicate plant surfaces. The zinc plating helps resist rust and corrosion, contributing to long-term durability. Designed for ease of use, the rake head quickly attaches and detaches from compatible handles, offering versatility that matches various gardening styles.

The lightweight yet sturdy metal construction ensures comfortable handling during extended sessions. Achieving a clean and orderly lawn becomes more manageable with this adaptable fan rake.

When compared to fixed-width rakes, this model’s adjustable feature adds notable value, eliminating the need for multiple tools. Its simple design combined with quality materials maintains a balance between function and longevity, presenting strong value for its category.

Pros

  • Adjustable tine spacing accommodates various debris sizes
  • Zinc-plated spring-steel prongs resist rust and provide flex
  • Compatible with Gardena Combisystem handles for custom setups

Cons

  • Handle sold separately, requiring an additional purchase

Offering versatility and durability, the Gardena Combisystem adjustable fan rake head is a reliable addition for garden maintenance. It balances adaptability with quality, making it a worthwhile tool for varied raking tasks.

6. Bond Manufacturing 9709 Easy Grip Fan Rake, Black/Red

/

Effortless yard cleanup becomes achievable with the Bond Manufacturing 9709 Easy Grip Fan Rake. Designed to tackle leaves and garden debris, this rake combines practical design with durability.

Its black and red finish adds a touch of style to your outdoor tools.

The gentle curvature of the fan-shaped tines enables effective gathering without damaging grass or plants. Whether clearing fallen leaves or light garden waste, it offers reliable performance season after season.

The Bond Manufacturing Easy Grip Fan Rake features a comfortable handle with an ergonomic grip. This design reduces hand fatigue during extended use, supporting greater control and precision in raking tasks. Its lightweight frame ensures easy maneuverability without sacrificing strength.

Its lightweight frame ensures easy maneuverability without sacrificing strength.

Constructed with quality materials, the rake combines a durable plastic head with sturdy metal components. This ensures resilience against daily wear and exposure to outdoor elements. Its fan shape covers a wide area for quicker, more efficient cleanups.

Its fan shape covers a wide area for quicker, more efficient cleanups.

This garden tool suits homeowners who require an easy-to-use rake for typical lawn and leaf maintenance. It balances functionality with simplicity, making it an excellent choice for both casual yard workers and seasonal gardeners. The Bond Manufacturing rake offers reliable service without unnecessary complexity.

The Bond Manufacturing rake offers reliable service without unnecessary complexity.

Pros

  • Ergonomic handle reduces hand strain during use
  • Durable materials provide lasting outdoor performance
  • Fan-shaped head covers large surface area efficiently

Cons

  • May not be suited for heavy-duty garden debris

Reliable and simple, the Bond Manufacturing 9709 Easy Grip Fan Rake delivers dependable yard work assistance. Its thoughtful design and solid construction make it a practical choice for routine leaf raking and garden cleanup needs.

7. Bond Stainless Steel Fan Rake

/

Enhance your gardening routine with the Bond Stainless Steel Fan Rake, designed for durability and efficiency. Its sturdy construction and wide fan shape make leaf collection quick and effortless.

Made by Bond Manufacturing, this fan rake features high-quality stainless steel tines that resist bending and rust. The wide head covers ample ground, reducing the time spent on yard work while maintaining gentle handling of lawn and plants.

With a seamless blend of durability and lightweight construction, the stainless steel build is stronger than typical plastic or wooden rakes. The handle attaches securely to the fan head, providing a stable grip and solid control.

This makes gathering leaves, grass clippings, or debris straightforward for gardeners who value efficiency.

Ideal for both professional landscapers and casual users, it suits a variety of outdoor cleaning needs. The rake’s sleek design and practical size fit comfortably into most storage spaces.

Its tough materials allow for long-term use without damage from weather elements.

Compared to similar leaf rakes in the market, this model stands out with its rust-resistant stainless steel and user-friendly feel. Whether cleaning a lawn or prepping garden beds, the Bond Stainless Steel Fan Rake delivers consistent results with minimal effort.

Pros

  • Durable stainless steel tines resist bending and rust
  • Wide fan shape covers large areas efficiently
  • Ergonomic design reduces strain during use

Cons

  • Handle not included, may require separate purchase

Offering a blend of strength, coverage, and ease-of-use, the Bond Stainless Steel Fan Rake is a dependable choice for maintaining outdoor spaces. Its quality materials and thoughtful design make yard cleanup straightforward and less tiring.

8. Gardena Combisystem Fan Rake Assortment: Leaf rake galvanised Spring Steel tines, a

/

Keeping your garden free from leaves and debris requires reliable tools. The Gardena Combisystem Fan Rake Assortment delivers effective performance for garden maintenance tasks.

Featuring a sturdy design and flexible components, this rake handles various garden waste smoothly. Its broad working width makes raking faster and less tiring. A perfect addition to any gardener’s toolkit.

A perfect addition to any gardener’s toolkit.

The Gardena Combisystem Fan Rake Assortment is tailored for raking leaves, grass clippings, and light garden debris efficiently. Equipped with elastic, galvanised spring steel tines, it maintains flexibility without bending. The 50 cm wide rake covers more ground with each stroke, reducing effort during cleanup.

Its patented combi system ensures the rake stays firmly attached without wobbling. Users can easily swap handles or tools thanks to the simple screw mechanism. The included 130 cm wooden combi handle offers comfort and control while working in your garden.

The high-quality spring steel and galvanised finish resist rust and wear over time. This rake suits both casual gardeners and those tackling larger areas.

Pros

  • Flexible galvanised spring steel tines for effective leaf collection
  • 50 cm working width accelerates the raking process
  • Combi system design for wobble-free and stable handling

Cons

  • Wooden handle may require occasional maintenance to prevent weathering

Combining practical design with quality materials, the Gardena Combisystem Fan Rake stands out among garden rakes. Its compatibility with other Gardena cs tools adds versatility. This fan rake efficiently supports garden upkeep, making yard work more manageable and productive.

9. 9 Tine Steel Fan Rake

/

Experience efficiency and durability combined with the 9 Tine Steel Fan Rake. Designed to simplify yard work, it offers superior control and strong performance.

Its comfortable grip and steel tines make it reliable for various outdoor tasks.

Engineered to handle leaves, debris, and light lawn grooming, this fan rake blends functionality with ease of use. Compact yet effective, it fits perfectly in every gardening toolkit and is built to last season after season.

The 9 Tine Steel Fan Rake features nine precisely spaced steel tines that provide excellent coverage for raking leaves or clearing debris. These tines are robust enough to resist bending, ensuring a long service life. A comfortable grip offers reduced hand strain, making outdoor chores more manageable and less tiring.

Its sturdy construction delivers consistent performance without compromising ease of use. The rake’s lightweight design allows for effortless maneuvering, while the steel build withstands the rigors of regular gardening tasks.

Compared to plastic fan rakes, the steel version resists wear and breakage better over time. This model offers solid value, combining thoughtful design with durable materials to offer an efficient raking solution suitable for various yard sizes and conditions.

Pros

  • Durable steel tines resist bending and breaking
  • Ergonomic grip reduces hand fatigue during use
  • Lightweight design enables easy handling and control

Cons

  • Not ideal for heavy-duty landscaping or rocky terrain

The 9 Tine Steel Fan Rake offers a practical, durable option for yard maintenance. Its blend of strength and comfort makes yard work less demanding, providing great usefulness for routine garden care throughout the year.

10. Gardena Ccombisystem Plastic Fan Rake Assort.FSC 100%

/

Gardena’s Ccombisystem Plastic Fan Rake brings convenience and durability to garden and home care. Its design combines lightweight materials with practical features, making yard maintenance easier and more efficient.

With a wide working width and sturdy build, the rake offers excellent performance on various surfaces. It is suitable for anyone looking to simplify outdoor cleaning tasks with a reliable tool.

The Gardena fan rake features a 45 cm working width, allowing rapid coverage of large areas with each sweep. The impact-resistant plastic body ensures longevity while maintaining manageable weight for comfortable use. High-quality polypropylene bristles adapt to different surfaces, delivering effective debris collection without damaging delicate plants or lawns.

High-quality polypropylene bristles adapt to different surfaces, delivering effective debris collection without damaging delicate plants or lawns.

Thanks to its versatile design, the rake fits well with Gardena’s combisystem handles, allowing users to customize tool length for ergonomic comfort. This flexibility enhances ease of use during extended cleanup sessions. Its robust construction stands up to frequent use around the garden and household outdoor spaces, providing consistent results.

Compared to traditional metal rakes, this plastic fan rake avoids rusting and requires minimal maintenance. It suits gardeners and homeowners seeking an efficient, low-effort tool for leaf clearing, grass clipping collection, and light debris removal. The product’s balance of functionality, durability, and user comfort makes it a practical addition to garden equipment.

The product’s balance of functionality, durability, and user comfort makes it a practical addition to garden equipment.

Pros

  • Durable, impact-resistant plastic body designed to last
  • Flexible polypropylene bristles ensure gentle yet effective cleaning
  • Compatible with Gardena combisystem handles for ergonomic customization

Cons

  • Plastic construction may be less sturdy for heavy-duty raking tasks

Gardena’s plastic fan rake delivers a user-friendly and efficient solution for everyday garden tidying. Its thoughtful design and quality materials provide lasting value for those maintaining lawns and outdoor areas.

Things to Consider Before Buying the Best Fan Rake Guide

Types of Fan Rakes

Material options (plastic, metal, aluminum). Tine design and flexibility. Handle types and lengths.

Fan rakes come in a variety of material options that greatly influence their durability and weight. Plastic fan rakes tend to be lightweight and are often suitable for lighter yard work, while metal and aluminum models provide enhanced strength and longer-lasting performance, especially when dealing with heavier debris. The tines of the rake play an important role as their design and flexibility affect how effectively leaves, grass, and other garden waste are collected.

The tines of the rake play an important role as their design and flexibility affect how effectively leaves, grass, and other garden waste are collected. Some tines are more rigid, allowing for better control when gathering dense piles, while flexible tines help prevent damage to delicate lawn surfaces. Handles vary widely in both type and length, with some featuring ergonomic grips that reduce strain during prolonged use, and lengths adapting to user height for comfortable leverage.

Shorter handles offer better maneuverability in compact spaces, while longer handles minimize bending and reach areas that are difficult to access. Recognizing these aspects can help in understanding what each variant offers and where it might be most useful, whether tidying up large open lawns or working in tight garden corners.

Durability and Build Quality

Rust and weather resistance. Strength of tines. Quality of handle construction.

The durability and build quality of the best fan rake are key aspects that greatly impact its performance and longevity. Materials that resist rust and withstand various weather conditions help the rake maintain its functionality over time, especially when left outdoors between uses.

Equally important is the quality of the handle construction, where sturdy wood or reinforced metal handles offer a comfortable grip and can endure repetitive motions without splintering or weakening. Together, these elements contribute to a tool that can consistently perform well through multiple seasons of use.

Ergonomics and Comfort

Weight of the rake. Handle grip and design. Ease of use for extended periods.

The weight of the rake plays a significant role in how comfortable it feels during extended use; a lighter rake helps reduce fatigue and makes handling easier over longer periods. The handle grip and design contribute greatly to comfort, with cushioned or contoured handles providing better support and preventing strain on the hands. An ergonomic shape that fits naturally in the hand allows for smooth and efficient movements while raking.

An ergonomic shape that fits naturally in the hand allows for smooth and efficient movements while raking. Ease of use over extended periods depends on how well these elements come together, ensuring the user can maintain control without discomfort. These features collectively enhance the overall experience, making yard work less tiring and more enjoyable.

Size and Coverage Area

Width of the rake head. Overall length and reach. Suitability for different lawn sizes.

The width of the rake head plays a major role in how efficiently leaves and debris can be gathered in one pass, with wider heads covering more ground quickly, while narrower heads offer greater precision in tighter spaces. The overall length and reach of the rake affect comfort and ease of use, allowing for less bending and extended reach over bushes or larger lawn areas. Some fan rakes come with adjustable handles to accommodate different user heights and improve maneuverability.

Suitability for different lawn sizes varies, as a compact rake may be ideal for small to medium yards where tight spaces require careful attention, whereas larger yards benefit from a broader rake head and longer handle to reduce the time spent clearing expansive areas. These features combined determine how well the tool performs in various environments and tasks, making it easier to maintain a tidy and healthy lawn efficiently.

Functionality and Versatility

Multipurpose use (leaves, grass, debris). Ease of cleaning and maintenance. Compatibility with attachments or extensions.

The best fan rake often shines due to its impressive functionality and versatility which allow it to handle various outdoor cleaning tasks effortlessly. Designed to efficiently gather not only leaves but also grass clippings and small debris, this tool proves handy across different yard maintenance scenarios.

Many models feature compatibility with attachments or extensions, making it possible to adapt the rake for more specialized needs or to enhance its reach and efficiency, which adds to its practical value in diverse gardening or landscaping projects.

Price and Warranty

Budget vs. premium models. Warranty and customer support. Longterm value and replacement parts availability.

Budget and premium models of the best fan rake differ primarily in terms of build quality, materials used, and additional features that enhance usability. While budget options typically offer basic functionality suitable for occasional use, premium models often feature more durable construction and ergonomic designs that provide greater comfort during extended tasks.

Considering longterm value, investing in a fan rake with readily available replacement parts can save money and frustration over time, as worn or damaged components can be swapped out rather than replacing the entire tool. This mix of affordability, durability, and reliable support helps highlight the practical benefits found across the range of options available for this gardening essential.

FAQ’s

What Features Should I Look For In The Best Fan Rake?

The best fan rake should have durable, rust-resistant tines and an ergonomic handle for comfortable use. Additionally, a wide rake head helps cover more ground quickly, making yard work more efficient.

Which Brand Offers The Most Durable And Efficient Fan Rake?

The Fiskars brand is widely regarded for offering the most durable and efficient fan rakes due to their high-quality materials and ergonomic design. Their products are known for long-lasting performance and ease of use.

How Do Fan Rakes Compare To Other Types Of Garden Rakes?

Fan rakes have flexible, widely spaced tines ideal for gathering leaves and lightweight debris, making them gentler on lawns compared to rigid garden or bow rakes. Unlike bow rakes, which are sturdier and better for heavy soil or debris, fan rakes excel in light, surface-level cleanup.

What Are The Top-Rated Fan Rakes For Clearing Leaves And Debris?

Top-rated fan rakes for clearing leaves and debris include the Fiskars Leaf Rake, known for its durability and lightweight design, and the Ames Leaf Rake, praised for its sturdy construction and wide head. Both are highly recommended for efficient yard cleanup.

How Do I Properly Maintain And Clean A Fan Rake For Long-Lasting Use?

To properly maintain and clean a fan rake, regularly remove debris and dirt from the tines using a brush or cloth, and occasionally wash with soapy water, drying thoroughly afterward to prevent rust. Additionally, apply a light coating of oil to the metal parts and store the rake in a dry place to ensure long-lasting use.

Conclusion

Choosing the right tool for lawn care can make all the difference, and the best fan rake stands out for its ability to efficiently gather leaves and debris while being lightweight and easy to maneuver. Its design typically offers a balance between durability and flexibility, making it suitable for various yard sizes and types of foliage. However, some models may have limitations in handling wet or heavy leaves, which could affect overall performance.

This rake is ideally suited for homeowners seeking a reliable, straightforward option without the complexity or bulk of other garden tools. For those weighing durability against ease of use, the best fan rake provides a practical solution that meets most basic yard cleanup needs, making it a worthwhile consideration for maintaining a tidy outdoor space.

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *