Frequently Asked Questions
Find quick answers regarding Learning Mode, Competition setup, local offline privacy, and WordBanks.
What is the International Spelling Bee Ecosystem?
A Windows desktop platform connecting spelling learning, practice, assessment, competition management, live presentation and reporting.
Who is the platform designed for?
Learners, parents, teachers, tutors, schools, organisers, adjudicators, programmes, sponsors and partners.
What editions are available?
Learning Edition supports preparation; Competition Edition adds formal event operation; Partner Edition supports approved branded programmes.
Can the software be used only for learning?
Yes. Learning Edition can be used independently without running a formal competition.
Can the ecosystem be used internationally?
Yes, when users provide validated word content and suitable installed voices or a human pronouncer.
Where can I download the Learning Edition?
Use the Microsoft badge on the Downloads page to open the official Microsoft listing.
Does the application work offline?
The desktop application supports local-first operation after installation. Internet may be needed for Store installation, updates and online support.
What should I check before a learning session?
Confirm the Windows user, activity, timer, voice, WordBank and any Advanced Filter.
What should I check before a competition?
Verify participant order, approved WordBank, rules, audio input, extended displays, privacy settings, storage and report folder.
Does entering a name create a permanent learner profile?
No. The name identifies the session and leaderboard entry; it does not create a separate private database.
How are learner statistics separated?
Statistics belong to the signed-in Windows user database. Use separate Windows accounts for separate private learner records.
Why do different names show the same statistics?
Names entered under the same Windows account contribute to that account database.
Does Spelling Level choose harder words?
No. WordBank and filter selection determine the actual words and practical difficulty.
Can Spelling Level be left blank?
Yes. Learning continues normally; the field is used for leaderboard grouping.
What is the recommended learning sequence?
Learn → Practice → Test → Individual Speed Round.
What is Learn Mode?
Learn Mode presents spelling, pronunciation, definition, sentence, part of speech and origin before assessment.
What is Practice Mode?
A guided unscrambling activity that reinforces letter order and records PRACTISED status.
What is Test Mode?
An independent assessment that hides the approved spelling and records CORRECT or INCORRECT.
What is Individual Speed Round?
A timed learning activity using one countdown for successive words.
When should Speed Round be used?
Use it after accuracy is established; compare correct words as well as attempted words.
What do Flashcards do?
Flashcards support structured review and retention using word information.
Can a human pronouncer be used?
Yes. Select Silent - Manual when Text-to-Speech is not required.