This is a brief overview of spinning. Each spin has several attributes which define which spin it is. A spin may also be a edge spin, or a pivot spin. Several of these attributes are interconnected. For example, the most basic of attributes is direction of rotation.
Most skaters spin counter-clockwise.
One notable exception is Todd Eldredge, who normally spins clockwise. Additionally, Michelle Kwan is famous for having learned to spin in both directions. This is a very difficult skill which very few skaters take the time to learn. The direction of spin determines which foot the spin is performed on. Forward and back denotes the direction the foot appears to be going, but it is really a misnomer.