Bringing clones outdoor

I am about to buy some clones from a local dispensary and a buddy of mine was saying that I will need to adjust the plant slowly (bringing them back and forth between dark and light for certain times) before just putting it outside or else they will go into shock. I don't really have a way of doing this. Is it really necessary that I do that?

it is called to harden off the plant so it will survive outside. the strong sun, weather wind etc. etc. start out by putting them outside for a short time and then increase the amount of time everyday until they are used to it. it doesnt necessarily mean (bringing them back and forth between dark and light for certain times)