Frequently asked questions
Quick answers to common parent questions.
Can I use this on my phone?
Yes. spelling.live works as a web app on any device. For handwriting mode, you'll want a tablet with a stylus - phones are too small for comfortable handwritten practice. Typing and voice modes work well on a phone.
Yes. spelling.live works as a web app on any device. For handwriting mode, you'll want a tablet with a stylus - phones are too small for comfortable handwritten practice. Typing and voice modes work well on a phone.
How does the photo import work?
Tap "Add list" then "Take a photo". Point your camera at the word sheet from school. The app extracts the words and creates a list ready to practise. You can edit any words it missed before starting your session.
Tap "Add list" then "Take a photo". Point your camera at the word sheet from school. The app extracts the words and creates a list ready to practise. You can edit any words it missed before starting your session.
Do I need an account to try it?
We removed guest mode because the features that make us different - personalised AI tips, handwriting analysis, and progress tracking - only work with a history of your child's practice. A one-off guest session couldn't show any of that. Signing up is free and takes two minutes with no credit card required. Find out exactly why we removed guest mode →
We removed guest mode because the features that make us different - personalised AI tips, handwriting analysis, and progress tracking - only work with a history of your child's practice. A one-off guest session couldn't show any of that. Signing up is free and takes two minutes with no credit card required. Find out exactly why we removed guest mode →
Which stylus should I buy for handwriting mode?
For iPad: Apple Pencil (1st or 2nd gen depending on your model). For Samsung tablets: the S Pen that comes with your device. For other Android tablets: most active styluses with a fine tip work well. Avoid passive rubber-tip styluses - they reduce accuracy.
For iPad: Apple Pencil (1st or 2nd gen depending on your model). For Samsung tablets: the S Pen that comes with your device. For other Android tablets: most active styluses with a fine tip work well. Avoid passive rubber-tip styluses - they reduce accuracy.
How is this different from just testing at home on paper?
The app tracks which words are correct and which are not, automatically brings back difficult words in the next session, and lets your child practise independently without a parent reading words out. Useful when time is short or when a child benefits from self-directed practice.
The app tracks which words are correct and which are not, automatically brings back difficult words in the next session, and lets your child practise independently without a parent reading words out. Useful when time is short or when a child benefits from self-directed practice.
Can I upload more than one list?
Yes. You can have multiple lists active at the same time - for example, this week's school list alongside a general 11+ word list. You can practise each list separately or merge them into one session.
Yes. You can have multiple lists active at the same time - for example, this week's school list alongside a general 11+ word list. You can practise each list separately or merge them into one session.
What does the AI actually do?
In handwriting mode, the AI reads what your child has written on screen and decides whether the spelling is correct. It is designed to interpret natural child handwriting, not just neat print. In photo import mode, the AI reads the word list from your photo and extracts the words.
In handwriting mode, the AI reads what your child has written on screen and decides whether the spelling is correct. It is designed to interpret natural child handwriting, not just neat print. In photo import mode, the AI reads the word list from your photo and extracts the words.
Is this aligned to the UK curriculum?
Yes. The app's built-in word lists are drawn from KS1, KS2, and 11+ preparation resources used in UK schools. The Fluent level covers the Year 3–6 statutory word lists and common 11+ vocabulary.
Yes. The app's built-in word lists are drawn from KS1, KS2, and 11+ preparation resources used in UK schools. The Fluent level covers the Year 3–6 statutory word lists and common 11+ vocabulary.
My child has additional needs - is this suitable?
spelling.live was built partly to support children with additional needs alongside highly capable children. Multiple input modes (typing, voice, handwriting, multiple choice) mean children can work in the way that suits them best. The multiple choice mode is particularly low-pressure for children who find recall difficult.
spelling.live was built partly to support children with additional needs alongside highly capable children. Multiple input modes (typing, voice, handwriting, multiple choice) mean children can work in the way that suits them best. The multiple choice mode is particularly low-pressure for children who find recall difficult.
What are credits and what uses them?
Credits cover the AI-powered extras: the spelling coach tips, handwriting analysis, voice spelling, and visual hints. These features run on powerful AI services that have a real cost per use. Basic spelling practice - loading a list, typing answers, checking results - is completely free and unlimited. You get 50 credits per month, which resets automatically. Many results are cached, so the same hint or audio served to another family doesn't count against your allowance. Read more about how credits work →
Credits cover the AI-powered extras: the spelling coach tips, handwriting analysis, voice spelling, and visual hints. These features run on powerful AI services that have a real cost per use. Basic spelling practice - loading a list, typing answers, checking results - is completely free and unlimited. You get 50 credits per month, which resets automatically. Many results are cached, so the same hint or audio served to another family doesn't count against your allowance. Read more about how credits work →
What happens if I run out of credits?
Just ask and we'll top you up. There's no awkward process - drop a message via the support page and we'll add more credits to your account. The app is currently free and we want you to use it properly, not feel cut off mid-session.
Just ask and we'll top you up. There's no awkward process - drop a message via the support page and we'll add more credits to your account. The app is currently free and we want you to use it properly, not feel cut off mid-session.