# Agent Instructions
This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com.

## Querying This Documentation
This site has an agentic ask interface you may use to query the documentation dynamically by asking a question.

Perform an HTTP GET request on the following URL with the `ask` and `goal` query parameters:

```
GET https://participanthelp.dscout.com/index.md?ask=<question>&goal=<user_goal>
```

`ask` is the immediate question: it should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language.
`goal` is what the user is ultimately trying to achieve, the reason they need the answer. Sharing it helps GitBook give you a better, more relevant answer. A goal is most helpful when it describes the outcome the user wants rather than restating the question. For example, with `ask=how do I create an API token`, a goal like `automate deployments from our CI pipeline` lets GitBook tailor the answer to that use case.

The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation.

---

# Home

<h2 align="center">How can we help?</h2>

<p align="center">Get help with studies, getting paid, and more.</p>

<p align="center"><button type="button" class="button primary" data-action="search" data-icon="magnifying-glass">Search…</button></p>

<table data-view="cards"><thead><tr><th></th><th></th><th data-hidden data-card-cover data-type="image">Cover image</th><th data-hidden data-card-target data-type="content-ref"></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>Getting started</strong></td><td>Create an account, learn the lingo, and more.</td><td><a href="https://2127414252-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FWDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS%2Fuploads%2FNYdvredFmfPqSDTxKVQl%2Fcyan-01-rocket.png?alt=media&amp;token=2102e4f0-cde6-473e-b53b-b014db4e92c9">cyan-01-rocket.png</a></td><td><a href="/getting-started/dscout-overview">Getting started</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Payments and incentives</strong></td><td>Set up PayPal, find FAQs, and more.</td><td><a href="https://2127414252-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FWDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS%2Fuploads%2FOlQAbpNgejjItzNykS65%2Fcyan-02-circle-dollar.png?alt=media&amp;token=e8f8b4e1-eeee-495b-9cb8-d685cd3b7a58">cyan-02-circle-dollar.png</a></td><td><a href="/getting-paid/payment-basics">Getting paid</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Account settings</strong></td><td>Update your info, join Dscout XT, and more.</td><td><a href="https://2127414252-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FWDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS%2Fuploads%2F9FAekaOwlxx8xzTmSNdE%2Fcyan-03-gear.png?alt=media&amp;token=3766c1b2-a1bc-4e34-a948-43ef057b7796">cyan-03-gear.png</a></td><td><a href="/account-settings/account-setup">Account settings</a></td></tr></tbody></table>

<p align="center"><a href="#explore-all-documentation">↓ View all categories</a></p>

<h4 align="center">Explore all documentation</h4>

<table data-view="cards"><thead><tr><th></th><th data-hidden data-card-target data-type="content-ref"></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>Getting started</strong></td><td><a href="/getting-started/dscout-overview">Getting started</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Single-session studies</strong></td><td><a href="broken://pages/pfxU1IwXlUmsR8raIYnc">Broken link</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>AI moderated studies</strong></td><td><a href="/ai-moderated-studies/what-are-ai-moderated-studies">AI moderated studies</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Diary studies</strong></td><td><a href="/diary-studies/participate-in-diary-studies">Diary studies</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Interview studies</strong></td><td><a href="/interview-studies/interview-technical-requirements">Interview studies</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Getting paid</strong></td><td><a href="/getting-paid/payment-basics">Getting paid</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Troubleshooting</strong></td><td><a href="/troubleshooting/why-arent-my-entries-and-media-files-uploading">Troubleshooting</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Account settings</strong></td><td><a href="/account-settings/account-setup">Account settings</a></td></tr></tbody></table>


# Dscout overview

New to Dscout? Start here.

Use this section to learn how Dscout works, how applications work, and what key terms mean.

### Explore this section

* [Referral Bonus Program for US-based Scouts Age 13-24](/getting-started/dscout-overview/referral-bonus-program-for-us-based-scouts-age-13-24) — learn who qualifies and how referral rewards work.
* [Apply for a study through a private screener](/getting-started/dscout-overview/apply-for-a-study-through-a-private-screener) — see what to expect when a researcher invites you directly.
* [Best practices for applying to studies](/getting-started/dscout-overview/best-practices-for-applying-to-studies) — improve your chances with stronger responses and better submissions.
* [Applying to studies](/getting-started/dscout-overview/applying-to-studies) — understand applications, review timelines, and study invites.
* [A Scout's Guide to Dscout Lingo](/getting-started/dscout-overview/a-scouts-guide-to-dscout-lingo) — get familiar with common terms like studies, activities, and entries.
* [Dscout overview for Scouts](/getting-started/dscout-overview/dscout-overview-for-scouts) — get the high-level introduction to Dscout and how participation works.

### Start with these

If you're brand new, read these first:

1. [Dscout overview for Scouts](/getting-started/dscout-overview/dscout-overview-for-scouts)
2. [A Scout's Guide to Dscout Lingo](/getting-started/dscout-overview/a-scouts-guide-to-dscout-lingo)
3. [Applying to studies](/getting-started/dscout-overview/applying-to-studies)


# Referral bonus program for US based scouts age 13 24

This referral program is open to US-based Scouts Age 13-24 who have signed up for the Dscout platform and have agreed to Dscout’s [Scout Terms and Conditions](https://dscout.com/legal/scout-terms). This referral program cannot be combined with any other offers. We reserve the right to change, suspend or terminate this program at any time. By participating in this referral program, Scouts agree that they have read and understood this article.

{% hint style="info" %}
**Note:** This referral program is currently only available to US-based Scouts age 13-24.
{% endhint %}

**How does the referral bonus program work?**

Share your link with a friend who is interested in Dscout, and have them download the Dscout app and sign up using the link so we can track your rewards. Each time a person you’ve referred completes and gets paid for a study, you’ll receive a $5 bonus. You can earn up to $50 total.

**What if I invite someone who is not age 13-24 and located in the US?**

While we always appreciate more Scouts, we are only awarding signups by people age 13-24.

**Are there any special rules I should know about?**

1. If you invite a friend, they must use/click on your referral link to download the app and join Dscout for you to be compensated when they earn. We want to thank you for helping grow our community, so please make sure your friend uses your link! We are unable to retroactively pair the folks you’ve referred to your account if they did not use your link to sign up for Dscout.
2. You will receive a referral bonus each time a person you’ve referred completes and gets paid for a study, up to $50 total across all of your referred friends. Any referral bonuses earned by your friends do not count towards your rewards.
3. Dishonest or misleading behavior will not be tolerated. Scouts are only allowed one account on Dscout, and must represent their location accurately. We reserve the right to disqualify any Scout if we suspect dishonest or misleading behavior.

**Is there a cap on how many people I can invite?**

No! You can invite as many people as you’d like.

**Is there a cap on what I can earn?**

Yes, $50 total. Regardless of how many people you refer—1 or 100!—your bonus earnings will be capped at $50. This means that if even one of your referrals is a great Scout, you may reach that cap in no time!

**Does earning when my friend gets paid take away from their earnings?**

Absolutely not! Your friend will get paid in full for all of their studies. We are giving you a thank you bonus for bringing them to our platform.

**When my friend gets paid, do I get paid immediately?**

Other than processing time, yes!


# Apply for a study through a private screener

So, you’ve been invited to apply to your first Dscout study—congrats! We’re happy you’re here. But we also understand you might have a few questions if you’ve never used Dscout (or even heard of us!) before. In this article, we’ll answer those questions by walking you through what you can expect from the process.

{% hint style="info" %}
**Note:** Applying to a study through a private screener does not require you to create a Dscout account. You will not be added to our platform’s participant panel, nor will we invite you to join unsolicited studies in the future.
{% endhint %}

## Access the screener

At Dscout, we refer to research studies as “studies,” and to apply to a study, you’ll fill out a screener. Chances are good you’ve already received a link from someone who wants to hear from you (we’ll refer to them as the Researcher). And once you open that link, you’ll land on a screener webpage that looks something like this:

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/5LMwV5I6s0t6CQJtyNlC/40364734099604" alt="" width="563">

On this page, we’ll ask you for some basic information (name, email, etc.), and we’ll also ask you to agree to our [Scout Terms and Conditions & Privacy Policy](https://dscout.com/legal/scout-terms). Once you’ve done that, click **Begin research study** to dive in.

{% hint style="info" %}
**Note:** If you’ve never logged in to Dscout before, you’ll be asked to verify your email. Simply follow the link that’s sent to you from <participate@dscout.com> — be sure to check your spam folder — and you’ll land directly in the screener.
{% endhint %}

## Complete the screener

Once you’re in the screener, simply answer the questions that are presented to you. Answer honestly and truthfully—don’t try to guess what the Researcher might want to hear. Chances are good you’ll end up guessing incorrectly and be disqualified when your honest answers would have earned you some extra cash.

## What happens next?

Based on your answers to the screener, you’ll either be accepted or rejected for the research study. This could happen within the same day or it could happen a day or two after you submit your screener responses.

If you’re accepted for the study, you’ll receive an email from <participate@dscout.com> letting you know. In this email, you’ll find another link with details on how to get started.


# Best practices for applying to studies

Below is a list of best practices that we recommend when applying to studies. Although we can’t guarantee that these best practices will always result in getting selected to participate in a study, they’ll definitely help improve your chances!

### Be selective, and don’t apply to everything

In general, we recommend that you only apply to studies that really interest you or pertain to you. By doing so, you’ll be able to submit more thoughtful answers, which make for better applications overall.

**Example**: Don't apply to a study about cats if you don't own a cat!

### Provide structured and thoughtful answers

If you only apply to studies that truly interest you, you’ll be able to provide more thoughtful and authentic answers. We score applications in a number of different ways, but organized, well thought-out responses are definitely better than one-word responses and incomplete thoughts.

**Example:** A study asks you to describe your cat. A response like “My cat’s name is Boots. He is an American Shorthair. We named him Boots because all four of his paws are black, but the rest of his coat is gray. He has brown eyes and is still very active in spite of his old age” is a far better response than “My cat is old.”

### Follow the directions

For each question, please make sure to follow the directions and stay on target. For video and image questions, you’ll be able to view the prompt by tapping View Instructions if you forget what the question is asking.

**Example**: In the same study about cats, if asked to take a video of you playing with your cat, be sure you take a video with your cat instead of submitting a selfie-style video where you describe play time to us.

### Be a good camera operator

We often ask scouts to provide picture and video responses in applications to studies. If an application to a study includes a media question, making sure that we can see the subject (whether that’s you or something else) and hear you clearly (if it’s a video question) is very important.

In general, it’s good to follow these guidelines when using your mobile device’s camera to answer a question:

* **Hold your phone steady.** Try not to simulate earthquake conditions.
* **Ensure you are well lit and in frame.** We want to see your beautiful face, not just your nose.
* **Speak clearly.** A video’s no good if we don’t understand what you’re saying.
* **Let your passion show.** If you’re bright-eyed and excited, we’re excited!
* **Keep your shirt on.** ***Please.***
* **Don't Dscout and drive**. We're not your mom or anything, but for your own safety and the safety of others, please refrain from recording videos and taking pictures while on the road.

We know that recording videos takes more effort and planning than just taking pictures or answering questions. And that's okay! Take the time you need to get settled, collect your thoughts, and answer away!


# Applying to studies

To be eligible to participate in a study, you’ll first need to submit an application to see if you’re a good fit. In this article you'll learn about:

## How do I get selected for studies?

When applying for studies, there are a few things you can do to improve your chances of getting selected.

* Answer the questions thoughtfully and creatively.
* Follow the directions. Each opportunity is different! Double check that you're staying on target.
* Be a good camera operator. When taking video, make sure we can see & hear you well, and keep your phone as steady as you can. Be yourself, put your best foot forward, and let your excitement shine through!
* Relax! You won't be a good fit for every study. Instead of completing every single opportunity that pops up, go for ones that really speak to your interests and knock those applications out of the park.

## How to apply to studies

Browse the **Explore tab** on your mobile app to see what studies are available. Once you find an opportunity that looks interesting to you, tap on the opportunity to read more about the application and incentive!

<img src="https://2127414252-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FWDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS%2Fuploads%2F2FN6JymIOHfBz1g9YaRG%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=16d416c0-eb96-4d2f-b3a3-8f705f3741bd" alt="" width="563">

To submit an application to a study, complete the following steps:

1. Tap on each individual study card to read through the details.
2. If you’re interested and think you’ll be a good fit for the study, tap **Start Application** at the bottom of the screen.
3. Read and answer each question thoughtfully and truthfully before hitting the **Next Question** button.

   <div data-gb-custom-block data-tag="hint" data-style="info" class="hint hint-info"><p><strong>Note:</strong> Once you answer a question in your application, you will not be able to go back. Make sure everything is correct before you tap <strong>Next Question</strong>.</p></div>
4. When you come across a picture or video question, you can choose to use Dscout’s camera to answer the question or upload a file from your phone’s media storage.
5. Once you’ve answered all the questions, you’ll see a screen that tells you that you’ve completed your application (check out this screen below).

{% hint style="info" %}
**Note:** You can’t view past applications in the app yet.
{% endhint %}

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/aMiPp33XP1Xd81RotoQi/35668107013268" alt="" width="563">

## Why do I have to apply to studies?

Each study is looking to research and understand a very specific topic, which often requires scouts that meet very specific criteria. Applying to a study helps us ensure that we’re finding the best scouts for each study.

Please remember that if you don’t get selected this time around, it doesn’t necessarily mean your application was lacking. It just means that we were looking for something else.

## The application review process + timeline

The person in charge of the study (or study leader) reviews every application that comes through. Since every application is reviewed manually, the review process can take anywhere from **a few days to a few weeks.**

Each study has its own timeline. As a result, we can’t truly say how long the application review process is for each study because it is never the same.

## The selection process

Once the review process is complete, scouts are selected to participate in the study and notified. If you are selected to participate in a study, your study leader will send you an invitation in the app. You'll receive an email from Dscout as well as a push notification (if you have them enabled!) letting you know that you've been invited.

At this time we do not notify you if you haven't been selected, so if it's been a week or two and you haven't heard back, chances are you weren't picked this time around!

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/KAze1e4PZOtjeBKgTfbX/35668153638548" alt="" width="563">

## Who chooses if I get into studies?

It depends! Sometimes a study leader from Dscout reviews your application, and other times a study leader from a company working with Dscout reviews it. But in either case, the person who reviews your application is looking for authenticity, creativity, attention to detail, and good camera work.

Click to learn more about what to expect after you've been invited to a [Diary study](/diary-studies/participate-in-diary-studies) or an [Interview study](/interview-studies/participate-in-interview-studies/participating-in-interview-studies)!


# Dscout glossary

Welcome to Dscout! Now that you've created an account, you may find yourself wondering about some of Dscout's verbiage and lingo. Consider this your go-to glossary for all the unique terms and aspects that define our platform!

## What's an application?

An application, found on the Explore tab, is how you put your name in the hat to be selected for a paid Diary or interview study. Applications are unpaid as these are used to determine if you're a good fit for the research study or not. Read more about applications here.

## What's a study?

A study is the adventure you'll go on while using the Dscout app! A study can be made up of multiple activities, or it might be a one-on-one video call with a researcher. Completing an activity usually involves answering the same series of questions a few times over a couple of days. You'll record your experiences and opinions using some combination of video, pictures, and text. Each time you answer all the questions in a study activity, we call that "creating an entry”. Be sure to follow all of the instructions in the activities and complete them within their timeframe to earn your reward!

## What's an activity?

Studies are made up of activity (they can have one or multiple). Each activity has its own instructions, unique questions and timeframe. Completing an activity usually involves answering the same series of questions a few times over a couple of days. You'll record your experiences and opinions using some combination of video, pictures, and text. Each time you answer all the questions in an activity, we call that "creating an entry.”

## What's an entry?

An entry is the set of answers you provide while completing a study activity. A lot of the time, you'll submit multiple entries while on a single study activity. Each time you take a video and answer a series of questions about what you're doing in the video, you're creating an entry.

## Who are study leaders?

Study leaders are the folks in charge. They're the ones reviewing your entries and making sure you've completed everything you need to in order to be paid. They're also available in case you have questions that aren't answered in the study overview or activity instructions, or if you have trouble completing a study. You can contact yours by tapping the "Messages" tab (message bubble icon in the top right corner) while viewing a study.

## What's an interview study?

An interview study is a research session where scouts and study leaders engage in one-on-one remote video with each other. Depending on the study type, you may be completing your interview session from the Dscout mobile app (mobile interview) or from a desktop computer or laptop (desktop interview). Check your invitation to confirm which type you're participating in!

## What's a single-session study?

If you're eligible for single-session studies, you can find these on the Explore tab just above applications. These are quick studies that pay out a small reward in an hour or less! Note that you'll need to qualify to participate, complete the entire study, and pass our ML (machine learning) quality assessment to be approved for payment. We'll let you know automatically if you're approved in the app!

Single-session studies come in a few forms—usability tests, media surveys, intercept studies, and AI moderated studies—each completed in one sitting:

### What's a usability test?

In a usability test, you complete tasks on a website, app, or prototype (often while sharing your screen) and share your thoughts so researchers can see how easy it is to use.

### What's a media survey?

In a media survey, you view media—like videos, ads, or images—and answer questions about your reactions to it.

### What's an intercept study?

In an intercept study, you share in-the-moment feedback while browsing on your desktop or laptop using the Dscout browser extension. Learn more in the [Intercept studies FAQ](/account-settings/dscout-xt/intercept-studies-faq).

### What's an AI moderated study?

In an AI moderated study, you have a real-time, spoken conversation with an AI moderator right in your desktop web browser—no mobile app needed. You talk through the questions out loud while your screen, camera, and microphone are recorded, and you can choose from 26 session languages. Learn more in [What are AI moderated studies?](/ai-moderated-studies/what-are-ai-moderated-studies)


# Dscout overview for scouts

We're so glad you're interested in learning more about being a research participant! If you're not sure what Dscout is or want to learn more, below are a number of questions and answers that will help build your understanding of what Dscout is and the role you play as a scout:

## What is Dscout?

People all over the world use Dscout to give their opinion and get rewarded. As a Scout, you'll answer questions, take pictures, and record videos of moments that matter to you. Organizations use your feedback to shape how they make groundbreaking new products and services. We're here to help you make the world a better designed, more connected place, and have a whole lot of fun in the process.

## What does Dscout stand for?

It stands for digital scout. "Scout" refers to the way people use the Dscout mobile app to "scout out" new products and services ahead of the pack, and "digital" refers to the way they record their experiences and opinions (digitally, using the app).

## What companies work with Dscout?

We partner with all kinds of organizations, from top name brands you use every day to up-and-coming startups. Sometimes studies will indicate what company is working with Dscout to conduct research, and other times organizations partnering with Dscout will choose to remain confidential.

## Who are Scouts?

Scouts are people just like you who use Dscout to give their opinions, get rewarded, and make our world a better place in the process. There are tens of thousands of Scouts in the United States, United Kingdom, and across the globe.

## What's it like to be a Scout?

It's a little like being an audience member at a test screening--except instead of explaining how you feel about a new TV show or movie, you're explaining what you think about all kinds of stuff, from podcasts and fitness trackers to bedsheets and breakfast food. And instead of having to physically go somewhere to give your feedback, you can record your opinion anywhere, anytime with the Dscout app on your iOS or Android phone.

## How do scouts go about using Dscout?

Scouts usually open the Dscout app a few times a week to look through available studies to apply to. If you see an interesting study opportunity, apply for it! We'll review your application, then invite you to a study if it seems like you'd be a good fit. Read more about the application process [here](/getting-started/dscout-overview/applying-to-studies).

Ready to dive in further? We recommend catching up on all the lingo that's unique to Dscout [here](/getting-started/dscout-overview/a-scouts-guide-to-dscout-lingo)!


# Dscout app

Get set up on the Dscout app and learn how to use the basics.

Use this section to check device requirements, navigate the app, and complete key setup steps.

### Explore this section

* [Complete your account checklist](/getting-started/dscout-app/complete-your-account-checklist) — finish the core setup steps that unlock more opportunities.
* [Screen recording walkthrough](/getting-started/dscout-app/screen-recording-walkthrough) — learn how screen recording works on mobile and desktop.
* [Minimum device requirements](/getting-started/dscout-app/minimum-device-requirements) — confirm your phone or computer meets the requirements.
* [Navigating through the Scout mobile app](/getting-started/dscout-app/navigating-through-the-scout-mobile-app) — understand the Explore, Studies, Rewards, and Profile tabs.
* [Downloading the Dscout app](/getting-started/dscout-app/downloading-the-dscout-app) — install the app on iPhone or Android.

### Start with these

If you're just getting started, read these first:

1. [Downloading the Dscout app](/getting-started/dscout-app/downloading-the-dscout-app)
2. [Minimum device requirements](/getting-started/dscout-app/minimum-device-requirements)
3. [Complete your account checklist](/getting-started/dscout-app/complete-your-account-checklist)


# Complete your account checklist

After you’ve created your Dscout account, you’ll see a checklist within the Dscout app of what else you can do to maximize your earnings:

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/psH9DLPLhDnBZSQTuhzw/49257065272468" alt="" width="375">

Here are a few useful articles to help you complete the necessary steps and answer any questions you may have:

* [Update your Scout profile](/account-settings/account-setup/updating-your-scout-profile).
* [Dscout XT](broken://pages/1888ce91ea99dcc3991113454c56ce91b0859801).
* [Apply to studies](/getting-started/dscout-overview/applying-to-studies).

If you want to make the most of your Dscout account, we encourage you to complete every step as they will directly impact the number of opportunities made available to you! However, the checklist will be automatically hidden after 30 days. You can also dismiss the checklist **if the only remaining item is to Activate XT** and you do not wish to:

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/6WQuDlZMjBo3Iu2B7FRz/49257065276052" alt="" width="375">


# Screen recording walkthrough

Some studies will include questions that require you to record your screen and audio. These questions often ask you to complete a given task outside of the Dscout app. By recording your screen and audio, researchers can get a better understanding of your experience completing the study.

Screen recording looks a little different between iOS and Android devices. The sections below lay out what you can expect for your specific device.

## Mobile screen recording

{% hint style="info" %}
**Note:** Regardless of your device, always use the latest version of the Dscout app for the smoothest experience.
{% endhint %}

### Screen recording on iOS

{% hint style="success" %}
**Tip:** Before beginning a screen recording, we recommend turning on Do Not Disturb to ensure no personal notifications make their way in. Your entire screen will be recorded, so depending on your notification settings, any that appear on your screen during the recording will be visible.
{% endhint %}

When you encounter a screen recording question using the Dscout iOS app, you’ll be prompted to complete the necessary setup, which includes granting permission to record your screen and record your audio.

To start, tap **Begin setup**, then tap **Broadcast screen**. On the next screen, tap **Microphone on,** then **Start broadcast**. The app will then test your audio to ensure it’s captured properly.

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/TOplkbhjWengeEVIQmSx/35733977481492" alt="" width="563">

{% hint style="info" %}
**Note:** You won’t be able to start a screen recording question until the Dscout app verifies your audio. If audio verification fails, you may be sent back to the start of setup.
{% endhint %}

Once you’ve completed the setup process, you’ll receive a quick tutorial on what to do next, but your recording won’t start just yet. Once you’ve reviewed the question itself, tap **Begin recording** to start recording your screen. Follow the provided instructions and return to the Dscout app once complete. Then, tap **End recording** to stop recording your screen.

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/y8LSznU9x4LXoJT7LTbB/35733977482388" alt="" width="563">

With your recording complete, you’ll have the option to review it directly in the Dscout app. To submit it and move forward in the study, tap **Save & continue**. If something went wrong with the recording, tap the **trash** icon to start over. Don’t worry about being perfect, though, and only re-record if you ran into an issue.

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/sJrcUWXhs7qyYdZOiR78/35733977483028" alt="" width="563">

### Screen recording on Android

{% hint style="success" %}
**Tip:** Before beginning a screen recording, we recommend turning off any notifications you may receive during the study. Your entire screen will be recorded, so depending on your notification settings, any that appear on your screen during the recording will be visible.
{% endhint %}

When you encounter a screen recording question using the Dscout Android app, you’ll be prompted to complete the necessary setup, which includes granting permission to record your screen and record your audio.

To begin, tap **Begin setup**, then tap **Grant permissions**. When asked to start recording or casting with Dscout, tap **Start now** to test your audio.

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/100vNew4fwyvUWgmtA6e/35733950105492" alt="" width="563">

{% hint style="info" %}
**Note:** You won’t be able to start a screen recording question until the Dscout app verifies your audio. If audio verification fails, you may be sent back to the start of setup.
{% endhint %}

Once you’ve completed the setup process, you’ll receive a quick tutorial on what to do next, but your recording won’t start just yet. Once you’ve reviewed the question itself, tap **Begin recording** to start recording your screen. Follow the provided instructions and return to the Dscout app once complete. Then, tap **End recording** to stop recording your screen.

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/NZd0y8zbxLMj8t48qoBj/35733950107668" alt="" width="563">

With your recording complete, you’ll have the option to review it directly in the Dscout app. To submit it and move forward in the study, tap **Save & continue**. If something went wrong with the recording, tap the **trash** icon to start over. Don’t worry about being perfect, though, and only re-record if you ran into an issue.

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/7Cb78gTdRlwwWZbrSuaj/35733977488276" alt="" width="563">

## Desktop screen recording

During some desktop studies, you'll be asked to record your screen while answering a specific question. In some cases, you'll be asked to visit a specific webpage (provided during the study) before starting your recording. In others, you'll start your recording without a specific webpage to visit. Here's what you can expect in either instance:

{% hint style="info" %}
**Note:** For desktop diary activities, you don't need the Dscout browser extension—the recording widget below appears in your browser on its own. Other kinds of desktop studies, like usability tests, still use the extension.
{% endhint %}

### If a webpage is provided

**To record your screen when given a specific website to visit:**

1. When you reach the screen recording question, click **Go to Website**. The Dscout recording widget is displayed.

   ![](https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/nknBWUwUJiNghI6QIzkJ/43194748242580)<br>
2. In the widget, click **Start recording**. The share screen modal is displayed.

   ![](https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/UwIfg2oorcPfVwLUsOg1/43194748243476)<br>
3. Select **Entire screen**. Then, click **Share**.

   ![](https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/IOLZtPWtSyC7fFnZ3RnW/43194780298132)<br>

Now, a countdown appears. When that countdown ends, your screen is being recorded. You can view the duration of your recording in the widget. To end the recording, click the **Stop** button.

![](https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/2rBHO2RJQ1FXWgWI8gAN/43194780299540)

### If no webpage is provided

**To record your screen when a webpage is not provided:**

1. When you reach the screen recording question, the Dscout recording widget will automatically open.
2. Click **Got it!** in the widget.

   ![](https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/oJOtLPxMFhUFpwOOgmnd/43194780300692)<br>
3. Click **Start recording** in the widget. The share screen modal is displayed.

   ![](https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/Win4pKMOoI68YsxqeZLy/43194748248596)<br>
4. Select **Entire screen**. Then, click **Share**.

   ![](https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/IOLZtPWtSyC7fFnZ3RnW/43194780298132)<br>

Now, a countdown appears. When that countdown ends, your screen is being recorded. You can view the duration of your recording in the widget. To end the recording, click the **Stop** button.

![](https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/2rBHO2RJQ1FXWgWI8gAN/43194780299540)


# Minimum device requirements

Dscout has a few technical requirements, and what's required depends on the type of study you're participating in and the device you use. Most studies happen in the Dscout mobile app, but some—like AI moderated studies, intercept studies, and desktop interviews—take place on a desktop or laptop computer in your web browser. Read more below or choose one of the following options that best describes you:

## Minimum device requirements for Android mobile devices

In order for Dscout to be compatible on your Android device, your phone must **(1)** be running on an operating system (OS) no older than **Android 9.0 (Pie)** and **(2)** have a working camera and microphone.

If you don’t know what OS version your mobile device is using, try following these steps to figure out what version your Android device is currently running on:

1. Open your mobile device’s **Settings** app.
2. Search for a section called **System**.
3. Find and tap on the section named **About** or **About phone**.
4. Look for a field that says **Android version**.

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/vBMqwcVc934MBpvge1KF/35668393758228" alt="" width="563">

If your mobile device isn’t on at least **Android Pie (9.0)** or doesn’t have a camera and microphone, you won't be able to download the Dscout app.

{% hint style="info" %}
**Note:** Not all Android devices are the same. These steps are general, so you may need to dig a little to find your phone’s operating system.
{% endhint %}

## Minimum device requirements for iOS mobile devices

In order for Dscout to be compatible on your Apple device, your phone must **(1)** be running on **iOS 16.0** or higher and **(2)** have a working camera and microphone.

If you don’t know what OS version your iPhone is running, you can follow these steps to find out:

1. Tap on your phone’s **Settings** app.
2. Tap on **General**.
3. Tap on **About**.
4. Scroll down and look for the information next to **Version**.

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/qzu6Ro39uaR8JEr2LKLP/35668423360148" alt="" width="563">

If your operating system is not iOS 16.0 or higher or if your iPhone doesn’t have a functioning camera and microphone, you won't be able to download the Dscout app.

## Desktop for certain studies

As a Scout, most of your Dscout activity happens on your mobile device using the Dscout mobile app. However, some studies take place on a desktop or laptop computer instead—including AI moderated studies, intercept studies, desktop interview sessions, and desktop activities for diary studies, usability tests, and media surveys.

### **Interview study**

If you're participating in a desktop interview study (specified in your study invite and study overview in the app), your computer must **(1)** be a desktop or laptop computer, **(2)** have a working camera and microphone, and **(3)** have Chrome version 80 or higher downloaded, or Microsoft Edge version 130 or higher. Before your session, we'll run a system check to be sure your device meets these requirements; read more about the interview pre-test here.

### **Desktop diary activities**

If you're participating in a diary study that includes a desktop activity, your computer must **(1)** be a desktop or laptop computer, **(2)** have a working camera and microphone, and **(3)** have Chrome version 80 or higher, or Microsoft Edge version 130 or higher, downloaded.

{% hint style="info" %}
**Note:** Desktop diary activities **don't require the Dscout browser extension**. You complete them right in your browser, and you won't be asked to install anything.
{% endhint %}

### **Desktop usability tests, media surveys, and more**

If you're participating in a usability test or other study that includes a desktop activity, your computer must **(1)** be a desktop or laptop computer, **(2)** have a working camera and microphone, and **(3)** have Chrome version 80 or higher, or Microsoft Edge version 130 or higher, downloaded. For usability tests, you'll also need to be able to download the Dscout browser extension (available for Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge via the Chrome Store).

{% hint style="info" %}
**Note:** Earlier versions of Edge may work. We guarantee optimal performance with version 130 or higher.
{% endhint %}

### **AI moderated study**

If you're participating in an AI moderated study, your computer must **(1)** be a desktop or laptop computer, **(2)** have a working camera and microphone, and **(3)** have Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge downloaded. You'll also be asked to share your screen during the session. Some AI moderated studies ask you to sign in or create a Dscout account and/or install the Dscout browser extension before you begin. AI moderated studies aren't available on phones or tablets—learn more in [Participate in AI moderated studies](/ai-moderated-studies/participate-in-ai-moderated-studies).

### **Intercept study**

If you're participating in an intercept study, you'll use a desktop or laptop computer with **(1)** Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge and **(2)** the Dscout browser extension installed. Intercept studies aren't available on phones or tablets—learn more in the Intercept studies FAQ.

## Can I use a tablet to participate on Dscout?

In short, it depends on what you're doing with Dscout!

The Dscout app is designed for mobile phones; since the Dscout app is optimized for mobile phones, we can't guarantee a seamless tablet experience. That being said, you should be able to complete **applications** and participate in mobile **diary studies** on an iPad or Android tablet if you don't have access to a mobile device! You can access the Dscout app for iOS [here](https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/dscout/id395563123) and the Android app [here](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.vokal.dscout\&hl=en). Keep in mind that your tablet will still need to meet the Android or iOS tech requirements specified in the sections above.

At this time, **interview studies** (both desktop and mobile studies) **is not compatible with tablets.** **AI moderated studies** and **intercept studies** also require a desktop or laptop computer, not a tablet.


# Navigating through the scout mobile app

Welcome to the Dscout mobile app! Learn more about our in-app experience by reading through one or all of the options below:

## The Explore tab

[Applications](/getting-started/dscout-overview/applying-to-studies) and [Single-session studies](/single-session-studies/participating-in-single-session-studies) appear on this tab! Applications are how you put your name in the hat to be selected for paid studies, so keep in mind that when you complete one of these, you're not participating in a paid study just yet! You can read more about the available studies Dscout is currently offering on the Explore tab and decide which one(s) you want to apply to.

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/WOEt1MnvU76JFCjRooKD/35668351579028" alt="" width="563">

{% hint style="info" %}
**Note:** Don’t see an **Explore** tab? You were likely invited by an external recruiting agency to join a single study through Dscout. Participants recruited this way are limited to externally recruited projects.
{% endhint %}

## The Studies tab

The Studies tab includes a few sections, so we've broken them down for you below:

### Open

**Invitations**

Studies in this section are the ones you've been invited to, but haven't yet accepted the invitation for. To accept your invitation, tap on the study image, then select "Accept invitation." You can also reject an invitation here if you're no longer interested.

**In Progress**

The studies in this section are the ones that you’re currently participating in, or have recently finished but haven't been closed by the project team yet. Studies will remain in this tab until the study deadline or until your study leader closes you out.

***Pro tip:** If you’ve finished your study, but it’s still showing up in this tab, don’t worry that you haven’t finished! This just means that your study leader hasn’t closed you or the study yet. Wondering about your payment? Tap* [*here*](/getting-paid/payment-basics/when-to-expect-your-reward) *to learn about the payment timeline for projects!*

### Closed

This is where you can navigate to view past studies you've participated in. In this tab you'll see the date the study closed; when you tap on a closed Diary or interview study, you'll still be able to message with your study leader in case you need to! When you tap on a closed single-session study, you'll see information about whether you qualified for the incentive along with the date your incentive will be (or was!) paid.

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/1neC6qgzBx6fOOGtnFqw/35668351580948" alt="" width="563">

## The Rewards tab

This tab allows you to reference all of your past payments with Dscout. Each payout will list the reward amount as well as the date you received it.

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/omd0fogdx7UAIS0LYlGq/35668375909012" alt="" width="563">

## The Profile tab

Access and update your profile here. You’ll be able to change your email, reset your password, and update information about yourself (including your profile picture and extended profile fields).

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/jZoAjaq2WdMOJpIhoBOc/35668375910420" alt="" width="563">


# Downloading the Dscout app

Depending on your phone’s mobile device, you’ll have to navigate to the Google Play Store or the App Store to download the Dscout app. Choose the option that best describes you below:

### Android mobile devices

For Android devices, you can follow these steps to download the Dscout app:

1. Open the **Google Play Store app** on your mobile device.
2. Tap on the **magnifying glass icon** on the top right corner of your screen.
3. Type in the keyword D**scout** in the field.
4. Click the green **Install** button.

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/sMUgXmcUUiW17ZXJdFSv/35668285222420" alt="" width="563">

Once the progress bar is at 100%, you’re all set! You can now open the app and [create your account](/account-settings/account-setup/create-a-scout-account)!

### iOS mobile devices

For Apple mobile devices, you can follow these steps to download the Dscout app:

1. Open the **App Store app** on your iPhone.
2. Click the **magnifying glass icon** on the bottom right corner of your screen.
3. Type the keyword D**scout** in the search field.
4. When you've found Dscout, click the **Get** button (or if you've previously installed the app, the button shaped like a cloud with an arrow pointing down).

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/dta0VJGpjHxWv2d45pIy/35668289195412" alt="" width="563">

Once the progress bar completes a full circle, you’re all set! You can now open the Dscout app, [create your account](/account-settings/account-setup/create-a-scout-account), and get started!


# Participating in single-session studies

Single-session studies are a way to make a quick buck with Dscout! These studies are completed in one short sitting, unlike diary studies which are completed over several days or weeks, and you can see if you qualify and complete them as soon as they’re available—no invitation required.

Single-session studies include usability tests, media surveys, intercept studies, and AI moderated studies. Most are completed in the Dscout mobile app, but some—like AI moderated studies and intercept studies—take place on a desktop or laptop computer in your web browser.

### Single-session studies vs. Diary and interview study

Single-session studies are quick tasks that can be completed in a short amount of time for a smaller reward (anywhere from $2 to $25). For larger rewards, you must complete an application on the "Explore" tab of your app and get selected to participate in a Diary or interview study. Diary or interview studies often require longer time commitments and are highly selective, which is why we use an application process.

To learn more about AI moderated studies, click [here](/ai-moderated-studies/what-are-ai-moderated-studies). To learn more about diary studies, click [here](/diary-studies/participate-in-diary-studies); for information about interview studies, click [here](/interview-studies/participate-in-interview-studies).

### Participating in single-session studies

Participating in single-session studies is easy! If one is available, you'll find it at the top of your "Explore" tab in the app; you may also be directly invited to a single-session study, in which case you'll be notified via email + find the study in the "In Progress" section of your Studies app. If the subject sounds like something you're interested in, get started! If it turns out you're not a good fit for the single-session study, we'll let you know in the app that we're looking for scouts with slightly different experiences. (For direct invite single-session studies, you're pre-qualified!)

### Why don't I see single-session studies on my Explore tab?

There are two reasons you might not see single-session studies in your Explore tab: **(1)** you're not qualified (yet!), or **(2)** you're outside of the United States or United Kingdom.

In order to qualify for single-session studies, you'll need to establish a history of high quality responses. To do this, continue submitting applications via the Explore tab, and check out these best practices on how to increase your chances of getting selected for studies.

*(Hint: if you don't see single-session studies because you're outside of the U.S. or U.K., changing your location in your Dscout profile won't help you qualify either. Be sure to keep things honest, accurate, and up-to-date!)*

### Getting paid for single-session studies

In order to get paid for participating in a single-session study, you'll need to fit the criteria we're looking for, complete the single-session study entirely, and pass our quality evaluation. If you don't fit the audience criteria or don't pass our quality evaluation, we'll let you know with in-app messaging so you know what to expect.

{% hint style="info" %}
**Note:** single-session studies found within the Explore tab must be completed with 2 hours of the time you qualify for the single-session study.
{% endhint %}

You will receive your payout **8 days after** **completion**, so long as your submission meets our quality expectations.

When you complete a single-session study, you'll see a confirmation page clarifying which payout ETA you can expect; for studies that pay out within 7 days, you can track your progress via the Closed section of your Studies tab. Check out the images below to see what these opportunities and payment ETAs look like:

<div><img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/gmtQtBgPcG7Ye9kPaBBy/35669655431188" alt="" width="375"> <img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/NGgsaInKdzITtk6Hbf3x/35669655432084" alt="" width="375"></div>

**Pro tip:** Be sure your profile is set up to receive PayPal payments successfully.

### Can I extend my time to complete a single-session study?

Unfortunately no—once you qualify for a single-session study, you will have 2 hours to complete the study and qualify for the incentive. It's not possible to extend this timeline, and the Dscout Support team cannot reopen an expired study for you.


# What does "low quality" mean in a single-session study?

Every entry to a single-session study is assessed for quality standards. If your entry is deemed to be low quality, you will not be paid and will be alerted in app of your quality rating. Due to high volumes of submissions we receive for single-session studies, we’re unable to give personal feedback. That being said, the most common reasons include:

* Dark or inaudible video responses
* Nondescript text responses
* Short text or video responses
* Lying and/or attempting to game the system

Keep our quality guidelines in mind for all of your activities on Dscout for the best chance at success in earning rewards!


# What are AI moderated studies?

An AI moderated study is a research session where you have a spoken, back-and-forth conversation with an AI moderator right in your web browser. Instead of typing out your answers, you'll talk through the questions out loud. These studies are much like a live interview, except the moderator is powered by AI and available whenever you're ready to start.

During the session, the moderator asks questions, listens to your answers, asks follow-ups, and moves you from one section to the next. Some studies also include short tasks, multiple-choice questions, or rating scales along the way.

### What you'll need

AI moderated studies run on your computer, not the Dscout mobile app. Before you start, make sure you have:

* **A Dscout account.** Most AI moderated studies ask you to sign in or [create a free Dscout account](/account-settings/account-setup/create-a-scout-account) before you begin. Some studies are set up to let you start right from your session link without one—just follow the prompts after you open your link.
* **A desktop or laptop computer.** AI moderated sessions aren't available on phones or tablets.
* **Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge.** These are the supported browsers for AI moderated sessions. If you open your session link in another browser, you'll be asked to switch.
* **The Dscout browser extension (for some studies).** Some AI moderated studies require the Dscout browser extension—the same one used for many other Dscout studies. If yours does and you don't have it (or have an old version), you'll be prompted to install or update it before the session begins.
* **A working microphone, speakers or headphones, and camera.** Built-in or external devices both work.
* **A strong internet connection.** A wired connection, or sitting close to your router, helps keep the conversation smooth.

### What's recorded

AI moderated sessions are recorded so researchers can review your responses. During your session, Dscout records your:

* **Screen** (You'll be asked to share your entire screen as part of getting set up.)
* **Camera**
* **Microphone**

Recording runs for the whole session—including while the moderator is speaking—so the conversation is captured from start to finish. Whenever recording is active, you'll see a small red dot near the top of the session window.

<figure><img src="https://2127414252-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FWDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS%2Fuploads%2FZQglimtczdc3F7LKRmKb%2FAI%20Mod%20updates%20(24).jpg?alt=media&amp;token=75bc8f1a-de10-44a8-b884-a17c422bd506" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

### More resources

The articles below offer more guidance on participating and troubleshooting AI moderated studies:

<table data-view="cards"><thead><tr><th></th><th data-hidden data-card-target data-type="content-ref"></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Participate in AI moderated studies</td><td><a href="/ai-moderated-studies/participate-in-ai-moderated-studies">Participate in AI moderated studies</a></td></tr><tr><td>Troubleshoot an AI moderated study</td><td><a href="/ai-moderated-studies/troubleshoot-an-ai-moderated-session">Troubleshoot an AI moderated session</a></td></tr></tbody></table>


# Participate in AI moderated studies

Once you open your AI moderated study link on a supported computer and browser, you'll go through a quick setup, have your conversation with the moderator, and finish when the moderator wraps things up. Here's what to expect at each step.

### Setup

When you open your session link, you'll sign in and go through a short setup to make sure everything works:

1. **Sign in to Dscout.** You'll sign in or create a free Dscout account to get started, unless the researcher set the study up to let you skip this step.
2. **Add the Dscout browser extension (if the study requires it).** Some AI moderated studies use the Dscout browser extension. If yours does and you don't have it yet (or need a newer version), you'll be prompted to install or update it before the session begins.
3. **Allow camera and microphone access.** Your browser will ask for permission to use your camera and mic (choose **Allow**). If your mic check doesn't turn green right away, try saying something out loud; the check passes as soon as it picks up sound.
4. **Share your entire screen.** You'll be asked to share your **whole screen**, not just a single window or tab. Screen sharing is part of every AI moderated session, so you won't be able to continue until you share your full screen.
5. **Choose your language.** If the study is offered in more than one language, you'll pick the language you'd like to use. Choose the one you're most comfortable with—**this can't be changed once the session begins.** AI moderated studies support 26 languages; each study's researcher chooses which of them to offer.

<figure><img src="https://2127414252-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FWDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS%2Fuploads%2FEavmL2kqYfZDTAKnJMs1%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=c99e02ed-cf0f-412b-addc-4a9e42613ab0" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

### Conversation styles

Every AI moderated study uses one of two conversation styles, chosen by the researcher. A short welcome message at the start tells you which one you're in.

* **You control when you're done.** After you answer each question, you click a **Done** button to let the moderator know you've finished. The moderator won't move on until you're ready, so you can take your time.
* **The moderator responds on its own.** The moderator listens for a natural pause and responds without waiting for you to click a button. (In this case, there *is* no **Done** button after certain questions.) If you need a moment to think, just say so and the moderator will wait.

### Move through your session

You'll talk with the moderator through each section of the study. As you go, the moderator's status may change to **Listening…**, **Thinking…**, or **Following along…**—this just shows what the moderator is doing.

A few things to know:

* **For multiple-choice and rating-scale questions, select your answer on screen.** Click the option in the window rather than only saying it out loud. Otherwise the session can't record your answer and move on.
* **Use the on-screen controls as needed.** During the session you can mute or unmute your microphone, turn your camera on or off, **Pause** the session (this also pauses recording) and resume when you're ready, or **Flag** a moment you want to call out.

<figure><img src="https://2127414252-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FWDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS%2Fuploads%2FdfW6BLW1gEpW59qOyG2G%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=4d736621-b764-4683-a92f-476beaafc208" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

### Finish your session

**You don't need to press a "submit" or "end" button to finish an AI moderated session.** When the moderator has covered everything, it wraps up the conversation and you'll see a completion screen—that's when your responses are submitted.

{% hint style="warning" %}
**Don't use "End call" or "Exit" to finish your session.** Those buttons *leave the session early*, before your responses are submitted, and may affect your reward. Only use them if you genuinely need to stop before the moderator is done. If you do leave early, your progress is saved—you can return through your session link and pick up where you left off.
{% endhint %}


# Troubleshoot an AI moderated session

If something isn't working during your AI moderated session, find the situation below for steps to get back on track. If you're still stuck after trying these, reach out to our [Support Team](mailto:help@dscout.com).

<details>

<summary>I see "This experience requires a desktop"</summary>

AI moderated sessions run on a desktop or laptop computer using **Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge**. They aren't supported on phones, tablets, or some other browsers. Open your session link on a desktop or laptop in Chrome or Edge to continue.

</details>

<details>

<summary>I'm asked to install or update the Dscout browser extension</summary>

Some AI moderated studies require the Dscout browser extension. If you see **"This session requires the Dscout Chrome Extension,"** install or update it in Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge using the link on that screen, then return to your session to continue.

</details>

<details>

<summary>I can't sign in or don't have a Dscout account</summary>

Most AI moderated studies ask you to sign in or create a free Dscout account before you start. For help, see Create a scout account or Signing into Dscout with a magic link.

</details>

<details>

<summary>My session paused and asks me to share my screen again</summary>

If screen sharing stops during your session, the session pauses and you'll see **"Screen sharing stopped."** Click **Share screen again** and choose your **entire screen** (not just a window or tab) to pick up where you left off.

</details>

<details>

<summary>The moderator can't hear me / "Microphone not detected"</summary>

If the moderator stops hearing you, the session pauses with **"Microphone not detected."** Check that your microphone is plugged in, unmuted, and allowed in your browser and system settings, then select the right microphone and say something to confirm it's picking up sound.

A few more tips:

* Quit Chrome or Edge and open a new browsing session.
* If you're using headphones, try unplugging them, and disable Bluetooth to rule out a disconnected device.
* Make sure the correct microphone is selected if you have more than one.

</details>

<details>

<summary>My camera disconnected</summary>

If your camera drops out, reconnect it (or plug it back in) and make sure Dscout has permission to use it in your browser and system settings. If you see a message that the camera couldn't reconnect, try again once the device is connected.

</details>

<details>

<summary>My connection dropped or the session froze</summary>

If you lose connection, you'll see **"Connection lost"**—your progress is saved. Click **Reconnect** to pick up where you left off. If the session seems frozen, refresh the page; your progress is saved and you'll return to where you were.

</details>

<details>

<summary>The moderator isn't responding</summary>

Give it a few seconds—the moderator may be thinking. If it stays silent or stuck on **Reconnecting…**, refresh the page to reconnect. Your place in the session is saved.

</details>

<details>

<summary>I accidentally left the session</summary>

No problem! Your progress is saved. Reopen your session link to return and continue where you left off.

</details>

<details>

<summary>"This session is no longer available"</summary>

This message means the session ended before it could start, so there's nothing to continue. If you believe you reached this in error, reach out to our [Support Team](mailto:help@dscout.com).

</details>


# Participate in Diary studies

Learn how Diary studies work and what to expect while completing entries.

Use this section to manage drafts, understand question types, and complete diary studies with confidence.

### Explore this section

* [Manage draft entries in a diary study](/diary-studies/participate-in-diary-studies/manage-draft-entries-in-a-diary-study) — access, resume, or delete draft entries.
* [What kinds of questions do I answer in studies and applications](/diary-studies/participate-in-diary-studies/what-kinds-of-questions-do-i-answer-in-studies-and-applications) — understand the question types used across studies.
* [Participating in diary studies](/diary-studies/participate-in-diary-studies/participating-in-diary-studies) — learn how invitations, entries, and study flow work.

### Start with these

If this is your first Diary study, read these first:

1. [Participating in diary studies](/diary-studies/participate-in-diary-studies/participating-in-diary-studies)
2. [What kinds of questions do I answer in studies and applications](/diary-studies/participate-in-diary-studies/what-kinds-of-questions-do-i-answer-in-studies-and-applications)
3. [Manage draft entries in a diary study](/diary-studies/participate-in-diary-studies/manage-draft-entries-in-a-diary-study)


# Manage draft entries in a diary study

When completing activities in a diary study, you’ll submit your responses in the form of **entries**. Each activity may call for multiple entries, and a single entry may take time to complete. When you begin a new entry, it’s automatically saved as a draft that’s only visible to you. This article outlines how to access, resume, and delete draft entries.

## Access draft entries

Draft entries are grouped by activity within a diary study. Select your device type below for more information.

{% tabs %}
{% tab title="iOS" %}
**To access draft entries on an iOS device:**

{% stepper %}
{% step %}
Open your diary study in the Dscout app.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Tap to expand the activity whose entries you want to view.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Tap **View all**. A list of your draft entries for that activity is displayed.

<div align="left"><img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/hVvWjanItitceuX2GhQq/47852400426260" alt="" width="375"></div>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Tap **Resume** beside an entry to view its details.

<div align="left"><img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/oMqukyr5PDKzqnsgmbWI/47852404301460" alt="" width="375"></div>
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

On an entry’s details page, you can see any answers to questions you’ve already provided, resume the entry, or delete the draft.
{% endtab %}

{% tab title="Android" %}
**To access draft entries on an Android device:**

{% stepper %}
{% step %}
Open your diary study in the Dscout app.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Tap to expand the activity whose entries you want to view.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Tap **View all**. A list of your draft entries for that activity is displayed.

<div align="left"><img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/Psd8W5mVQ2EKtOcwLJl2/47852404303764" alt="" width="375"></div>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Tap **Resume** beside an entry to view its details.

<div align="left"><img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/4W68tAAh5H7yLTcf9VUn/47852404304404" alt="" width="375"></div>
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

On an entry’s details page, you can see any answers to questions you’ve already provided, resume the entry, or delete the draft.
{% endtab %}

{% tab title="Desktop" %}
**To access draft entries on a computer:**

{% stepper %}
{% step %}
Open your diary study in the browser.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Click to expand the activity whose entries you want to view.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Click **View all**. A list of your draft entries is displayed.

<div align="left"><img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/9C6L7dmW3AzjATvpwH9S/47854987171476" alt="" width="375"></div>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Click **Resume** beside an entry to view its details.

<div align="left"><img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/7QSoLJ5iCG3t4WBHtQQY/47854973457684" alt="" width="375"></div>
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

On an entry’s details page, you can see any answers to questions you’ve already provided, resume the entry, or delete the draft.
{% endtab %}
{% endtabs %}

## Resume draft entries

If you’re ready to resume a draft entry, you can pick up right where you left off. Select your device type below for more information.

{% hint style="info" %}
**Note:** You can’t work backward in an entry, so you can’t edit answers you already provided. If you want to change them, delete the entry and start again.
{% endhint %}

{% tabs %}
{% tab title="iOS" %}
**To resume a draft entry on an iOS device:**

{% stepper %}
{% step %}
Open your diary study in the Dscout app.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Tap to expand the activity whose entries you want to resume.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Tap **View all**. A list of your draft entries for that activity is displayed.

<div align="left"><img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/hVvWjanItitceuX2GhQq/47852400426260" alt="" width="375"></div>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Tap **Resume** beside the entry you want to resume. That entry’s details are displayed.

<div align="left"><img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/oMqukyr5PDKzqnsgmbWI/47852404301460" alt="" width="375"></div>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Tap **Continue entry** at the bottom of the screen.

<div align="left"><img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/D2OIngo0D2PNf4a9ECT9/47852404305044" alt="" width="375"></div>
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

Now, your entry opens exactly how you left it. You can continue from where you left off, then submit your entry. If you want to start over, you can delete your entry and do so.
{% endtab %}

{% tab title="Android" %}
**To resume a draft entry on an Android device:**

{% stepper %}
{% step %}
Open your diary study in the Dscout app.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Tap to expand the activity whose entries you want to resume.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Tap **View all**. A list of your draft entries for that activity is displayed.

<div align="left"><img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/Psd8W5mVQ2EKtOcwLJl2/47852404303764" alt="" width="375"></div>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Tap **Resume** beside the entry you want to resume. That entry’s details are displayed.

<div align="left"><img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/4W68tAAh5H7yLTcf9VUn/47852404304404" alt="" width="375"></div>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Tap **Continue entry** at the bottom of the screen.

<div align="left"><img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/fVaMhUOQkgoTRBAlmHDI/47852400432788" alt="" width="375"></div>
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

Now, your entry opens exactly how you left it. You can continue from where you left off, then submit your entry. If you want to start over, you can delete your entry and do so.
{% endtab %}

{% tab title="Desktop" %}
**To resume a draft entry on a computer:**

{% stepper %}
{% step %}
Open your diary study in the browser.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Click to expand the activity whose entries you want to resume.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Click **View all**. A list of your draft entries is displayed.

<div align="left"><img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/9C6L7dmW3AzjATvpwH9S/47854987171476" alt="" width="375"></div>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Click **Resume** beside the entry you want to continue. That entry’s details are displayed.

<div align="left"><img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/7QSoLJ5iCG3t4WBHtQQY/47854973457684" alt="" width="375"></div>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Click **Continue entry**.

<div align="left"><img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/mCXcfpzZjwLTiHFIDrgf/47854987177108" alt="" width="375"></div>
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

Now, your entry opens exactly how you left it. You can continue from where you left off, then submit your entry. If you want to start over, you can delete your entry and do so.
{% endtab %}
{% endtabs %}

## Delete draft entries

If you no longer need a draft entry, you can delete it. Select your device type below for more information.

{% tabs %}
{% tab title="iOS" %}
**To delete a draft entry on an iOS device:**

{% stepper %}
{% step %}
Open your diary study in the Dscout app.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Tap to expand the activity whose entries you want to delete.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Tap **View all**. A list of your draft entries for that activity is displayed.

<div align="left"><img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/hVvWjanItitceuX2GhQq/47852400426260" alt="" width="375"></div>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Tap **Resume** beside the entry you want to resume. That entry’s details are displayed.

<div align="left"><img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/oMqukyr5PDKzqnsgmbWI/47852404301460" alt="" width="375"></div>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Tap the **Delete (trash)** icon at the bottom of the screen. A confirmation modal is displayed.

<div align="left"><img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/q0DcLWIagZWLwsIVqtYM/47852404308884" alt="" width="375"></div>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Tap **Delete entry** to confirm.

<div align="left"><img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/spXJ5QvpIxZdgIwqmy2q/47852404309652" alt="" width="375"></div>
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

Now, your entry draft is deleted. You can choose another draft entry to resume or click **Get started** on the main study page to start a new entry.
{% endtab %}

{% tab title="Android" %}
**To delete a draft entry on an Android device:**

{% stepper %}
{% step %}
Open your diary study in the Dscout app.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Tap to expand the activity whose entries you want to delete.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Tap **View all**. A list of your draft entries for that activity is displayed.

<div align="left"><img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/Psd8W5mVQ2EKtOcwLJl2/47852404303764" alt="" width="375"></div>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Tap **Resume** beside the entry you want to resume. That entry’s details are displayed.

<div align="left"><img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/4W68tAAh5H7yLTcf9VUn/47852404304404" alt="" width="375"></div>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Tap the **Delete (trash)** icon at the bottom of the screen. A confirmation modal is displayed.

<div align="left"><img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/B3ikwnI5z5wNdVPZJ9cV/47852400441364" alt="" width="375"></div>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Tap **Delete** to confirm.

<div align="left"><img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/dpd9HaEaESOt8Fd674NI/47852404311700" alt="" width="375"></div>
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

Now, your entry draft is deleted. You can choose another draft entry to resume or click **Get started** on the main study page to start a new entry.
{% endtab %}

{% tab title="Desktop" %}
**To delete a draft entry on a computer:**

{% stepper %}
{% step %}
Open your diary study in the browser.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Click to expand the activity whose entries you want to delete.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Click **View all**. A list of your draft entries is displayed.

<div align="left"><img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/9C6L7dmW3AzjATvpwH9S/47854987171476" alt="" width="375"></div>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Click **Resume** beside the entry you want to delete. That entry’s details are displayed.

<div align="left"><img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/7QSoLJ5iCG3t4WBHtQQY/47854973457684" alt="" width="375"></div>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Click **Delete entry**. A confirmation modal is displayed.

<div align="left"><img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/TenmGsqF45aFX8wWzThe/47854987178772" alt="" width="375"></div>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Click **Delete entry** to confirm.

<div align="left"><img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/2GvVqzMRqoqA0mNGRSC5/47854987180308" alt="" width="375"></div>
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

Now, your entry draft is deleted. You can choose another draft entry to resume or click **Get started** on the main study page to start a new entry.
{% endtab %}
{% endtabs %}

**Tip:** You can also discard an entry while you’re completing it. Click **Entry details** in the top right corner of the page to view an overview of your in-progress entry, then click **Delete entry** at the bottom of the page.


# What kinds of questions do I answer in studies and applications

An **Entry** is the set of answers you submit when participating in a study. Typically, you’ll submit multiple entries while participating in a single study, but each study will require at least one entry per activity. (Don't remember what an activity is? Read more [here](/diary-studies/participate-in-diary-studies))

There are eight different types of questions, which are listed below.

## Open-ended questions

Open-ended questions ask you to respond in a free-form, text-based manner. Answers to open-ended questions may have a limit of 140 characters.

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/XZDhqvgBO68h338pvGcL/35668686783892" alt="" width="563">

***Pro tip**: If your entry has a limit of 140 characters, you'll see the number 140 somewhere on the screen (this number will be on the bottom-left corner for iPhones and right under the text box on the right for Android devices). When you type your answer, the number will decrease. If you don't see a number anywhere on the screen, then you can add as many characters as you want.*

## Multiple choice questions

Multiple choice questions ask you to select one or more choices from a list.

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/7e8gnnaTvDuLIKIvThQ3/35668690479380" alt="" width="563">

***Pro tip:** You'll notice the number of choices you're supposed to select underneath the question prompt in gray.*

## Ranking questions

Ranking questions ask you to rank some or all of the response choices from a list. The number of choices you need to rank will be specified above the choice list (e.g. "Rank all 6 choices," "Rank 1 to 3 choices").

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/z3WoQwQwG5jsa4fD3Lyz/35668690479764" alt="" width="563">

***Pro tip:*** *Read the directions carefully to fully understand how the response choices should be ranked (e.g. best to worst, favorite to least favorite, etc.)*

## Media questions

Media questions ask you to submit a video or image about a specific topic. For video questions, the length of the video will be determined by your study leader and communicated in the question prompt.

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/5PQsYAEQol2ooXCsv30M/35668686791060" alt="" width="563">

**Photo questions**

Submit a photo or screenshot of something. Researchers may ask you to submit up to 5 different photos for a particular entry.

**Video questions**

Take a selfie or outward-facing video about a specific topic. The length of the video (30 seconds - 5 minutes) will be determined by your study leader and communicated in the question prompt.

***Pro tip**: When you to add a video or photo, you'll have the option of completing the task in real-time. For example, you'll be able to take a picture or video using the mobile app's camera feature. However, if you already have a video pre-recorded or a picture already taken, you can choose to upload from your phone's media storage. Please note that this will require you to give Dscout permission to access your media. Read more about granting permissions* [*here*](/account-settings/app-settings/dscout-scout-app-permissions)*.*

## Screen recording questions

Screen recording questions ask you to share your thoughts aloud while recording your screen on your mobile device. For these questions, please note that you'll be recording everything on your screen while talking out loud.

When you encounter a screen recording question, you'll be shown a tutorial on how to screen record. In case you need a refresher, here's what you'll see depending on your device type!

**All Android devices with Dscout app version 4.19.0 and above**

<div><img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/GElfKcerMaF04A3CCbBk/35668686792724" alt="" width="563"> <img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/Qex7TTIDdq4DYmCh12ZW/35668686794004" alt="" width="563"> <img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/hkH8ta992Psr6TGTvtK8/35668690490132" alt="" width="563"></div>

**iPhone 8 and below with Dscout app version 3.76 and above**

<div><img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/ccaSrh6VuLMxyMU9sJDd/35668686797460" alt="" width="563"> <img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/VfFiXyEHRcGtvNUQKwC6/35668690492564" alt="" width="563"> <img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/v3VqdkrdCOVvFTioI23X/35668690498452" alt="" width="563"> <img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/RIx7SwqbBOaEvOwm8HRK/35668690498964" alt="" width="563"></div>

**iPhone X and above with Dscout app version 3.76 and above**

<div><img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/jzUDaw1w4dYerA42iHcp/35668686811796" alt="" width="563"> <img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/maZFLoAf46U0IvPyXJsF/35668690500500" alt="" width="563"> <img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/1bS4xhFlECwlv3vKA11Y/35668690501524" alt="" width="563"></div>

***Pro tip**: For privacy concerns, you'll have the chance to close out any personal and private information before hitting the **Start Recording** button. When recording your screen, please make sure you speak loudly and clearly.*

## Scale questions

Scale questions ask you to respond to a prompt using a rating system.

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/cpO2DacQ2E410hXJvZ8d/35668686815892" alt="" width="563">

## Number questions

Number questions ask you a question to which you can only respond with a number.

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/XjjD8qFljy96oOUcOH79/35668690505108" alt="" width="563">

## Checkpoints

Checkpoints aren't technically question types, but you may encounter them throughout a study. Checkpoints allow our study leaders to provide further instruction throughout the study and don't require you to do anything other than read the text.

## Questions with question stimuli

Some question types will have images at the beginning of the prompt. These types of questions are designed for scenarios when you need to review one or several images, then respond and react to what you were shown. In order to complete these questions, you'll first need to expand and scroll through all images; then, you'll be able to respond and move to the next question.


# Participating in diary studies

So you've been invited to your first diary study—congrats!

Not sure what a study is or what all these Dscout terms mean? Check out [this article](/getting-started/dscout-overview/a-scouts-guide-to-dscout-lingo) for a rundown of our Dscout lingo!

## How to accept your invitation

To accept your invitation to the study, follow these steps:

{% stepper %}
{% step %}
Log into your account on the Dscout mobile app.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Find the tab labeled **Studies** (rocket icon) on the bottom navigation bar and tap on it.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Find the study you’ve been invited to under the **Invites** section and tap on the image to continue.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
When you tap on the card, you’ll land on the **Study Overview** page. You can read up more about the study details, instructions, structure, and invite date here.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
To accept the invitation and get started, tap on **Accept Invitation**.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
To decline the invitation, tap on **Decline**.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
If you want to message your study leader, tap on the **messaging icon** in the top right corner of the screen. Any message you send here will go directly to your study leader.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/K8eC8oRq4sZnilYwMfdZ/35668627333908" alt="" width="375">

## Who's your study leader?

Study leaders are the folks in charge. They're the ones reviewing your entries and making sure you've completed everything you need to in order to be paid. They're also available in case you have questions that aren't answered in the study overview or activity instructions, or if you have trouble completing a study. You can contact yours by tapping the "Messages" tab while viewing a study.

Sometimes, the study leader is a representative of Dscout. Other times, your study leader could be someone from a company that is using Dscout for their own research purposes.

## Requirements for getting paid

If you follow the study instructions and complete all the required activities and entries (on time and thoughtfully, of course!), we’ll take the time to review your entries. So long as you did everything that was asked of you and provided quality responses, your study leader will mark you as approved for payments!

## How to find your study instructions

Since your payment depends on you following all of the study instructions, it's crucial to know where your instructions are located: within your Study Overview, and in each individual activity. We recommend that you check out the **Study Overview** to get the full picture, deadlines, and details for your study and the **activity instructions** for the finer details about how to complete individual entries.

#### Android

{% stepper %}
{% step %}
Access your **In Progress tab** on the bottom of your app’s navigation bar.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Find the study in question and tap on it.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Here, you’ll notice the number of activities, days, reward amount, and number of messages on the top of the screen beneath the study title.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Tap on the **Information icon** on the top right corner of your screen (next to the **Messages icon**) to display your full study overview.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
The study overview should display more information about the study, including more detailed instructions and deadlines.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/44zjWeatiYz1OrPz6IxG/35668627334548" alt="" width="375">

#### iOS

{% stepper %}
{% step %}
Access your In Progress tab on the bottom of your app’s navigation bar.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Find the study in question and tap on it.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Under the study title, you’ll see the number of activities, number of expected days, the study reward, and the number of messages.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Tap on Overview to display your full study overview.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
The study overview should display more information about the study, including more detailed instructions and deadlines.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/2ISJQKzFyCmJcsiwBipW/35668657550868" alt="" width="375">

## How to submit an entry

Submitting entries is a breeze! Check out the steps below:

{% stepper %}
{% step %}
To start an entry, tap the "Get Started" button. This will say "New entry" after you've submitted an entry for the activity you're working on.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
After you’re done answering all the questions in an activity, you’ll be given the opportunity to review your entry before you submit it. Check out the **Review Entry** screen below.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Submit your entry by tapping on the **Submit Entry** button on the bottom of your screen.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
If the activity you're working on requires more than one entry, simply tap the **New Entry** button to get started on another one!
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

Once you submit an entry, you won't be able to change your answers for that entry. You can, however, submit an additional entry for the activity with the updated information. There is no limit to how many entries you can submit.

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/SXfwZCg63hEa40wgz4kl/35668657553044" alt="" width="375">

## Why is the next activity still locked?

This depends on if your study is a Manual study or an Automatic study. Read more on the difference between the two below:

#### Manual

The next activity of your study will be locked until a specific date and time and can only be unlocked by your study leader. Manual studies will display "Available upon researcher release. Stay tuned!" on the locked activity. See below:

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/BnsXghv1BiLbJ2lCNE12/35668657554580" alt="" width="375">

If your study leader hasn't unlocked an activity for you and the communicated deadline is approaching, be sure to send them a message. Read on in the next section for how to do this!

#### Automatic studies

The next activity will open immediately after you submit all the required entries in the previous activity. To locate the number of required entries, look at the numbers just to the right of the activity label; this will say something like "0 of 1 entries" or "1 of 4 entries." Once the numbers match, your next activity will unlock!

These types of studies allow you to finish the study at your own pace. Automatic studies will display "Available once previous activities have been completed" on the locked activity. See below:

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/DW3Fxmhfi4VsS9HMK1Nv/35668657555604" alt="" width="375">

## Messaging your study leader

To message your study leader, follow the steps below:

{% stepper %}
{% step %}
Find the study in the **In Progress** tab and tap on it. Don't see your study? Check out our **Pro tip** below for information on accessing closed studies.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Tap on the **Messages** icon on the top-right corner of your screen. (*Please note*: the **Messages** icon will look slightly different depending on your mobile device’s operating system. For Android devices, the icon will resemble a dialogue box whereas iOS devices will display more of a bubble icon with a number in it. See below).

<div align="left"><img src="https://2127414252-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FWDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS%2Fuploads%2FixPby5YSJ0NzY1WufgtP%2Fimage.png?alt=media&#x26;token=eb80bec9-3404-4b89-85d7-36e93df71f9d" alt="" width="375"></div>
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

**Pro tip:** If you don’t see your study in this tab, it probably means your study leader closed it. You can still access closed studies to message your study leader. Messaging in closed studies functions the same way as messaging in studies that are in progress by navigating to the "Closed studies" or "Archived studies" tab by scrolling to the bottom of your "In Progress" page.

## Commenting on a diary entry

If you need to leave a comment on an entry you've already submitted, you can do so directly from the Dscout app.

**To comment on a diary entry:**

{% stepper %}
{% step %}
In the diary study, locate the activity that contains the entry you want to comment on.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Tap **View all**. A list of your entries is displayed.

<div align="left"><img src="https://2127414252-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FWDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS%2Fuploads%2F7IbVsCT6AIfeBe0hs5oQ%2Fimage.png?alt=media&#x26;token=617148c6-d8f7-4e3d-805a-bc168423ece6" alt="" width="375"></div>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Tap the entry you want to comment on to open it. The entry's details are displayed.

<div align="left"><img src="https://2127414252-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FWDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS%2Fuploads%2Fu5NvhRRgTz8FrPLxxNzS%2Fimage.png?alt=media&#x26;token=c460c658-0593-48aa-8609-ab30b2d27837" alt="" width="375"></div>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Tap in the comment field at the bottom of the screen to write your comment. Then, tap the **Send** button.

<div align="left"><img src="https://2127414252-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FWDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS%2Fuploads%2FFA3FvpocstfQMX8DmU1E%2Fimage.png?alt=media&#x26;token=81caca07-070e-4f1b-867f-ca4e54d29633" alt="" width="375"></div>
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

Now, your comment is added to the entry and your study leader will be able to review it on their end.

## Participating in a desktop activity diary study

You may be invited to a study that includes a desktop activity; this means that instead of submitting a Diary entry from your mobile app, you'll complete it on a desktop computer or laptop instead! From the mobile app, you'll start the entry and have a "magic link" sent to you via email. Open up that link on a computer, run through the device setup, and get going on your entry from your computer!

All you need is a desktop or laptop computer with a working camera and microphone, and a Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge browser. There's **nothing to install**—desktop diary activities don't require the Dscout browser extension.

Running into trouble getting started? Check out [this article](/diary-studies/diary-troubleshooting) for some general troubleshooting steps on desktop activities.


# Diary technical requirements

***


# Browser compatibility for desktop Diary activities

Google Chrome (version 80 and newer) and Microsoft Edge (version 130 and newer) are the only browsers that are compatible with desktop Diary activities.

If you don’t have Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge installed on your computer, please download either of these browser options using the links below:

* [Download the latest version of the Google Chrome browser here](https://www.google.com/chrome/)
* [Download the latest version of Microsoft Edge here](https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/edge/download?form=MA13FJ)


# How to grant camera and microphone permissions for desktop Diary activities

When you start a desktop activity of a diary study, Dscout will run you through your web setup, which includes granting camera and microphone permissions. Check out the steps below:

1. To start a desktop activity of a diary study, you’ll email yourself a magic link from the Dscout mobile app. You’ll receive this email from <participate@dscout.com> with **Your magic link for Activity ‘...’ of the ‘...’ diary study** in the subject.
2. Access this email and open the magic link in Chrome or Edge. The magic link expires in 24 hours and can only be used once. If you are having issues with receiving the magic link, please double check your email address in your Dscout profile on the mobile app for any typos or spelling errors.
3. The magic link automatically authenticates you, so you won’t need to sign in again on desktop. If you see a message that your magic link has expired, you’ll need to navigate to the study in the Dscout mobile app and send yourself a new magic link.
4. A dialogue box will pop up asking you to give Dscout permission to use your Microphone and Camera. Click **Allow**. If the permission request dialog box does not automatically appear, you can read more about troubleshooting Chrome browser permissions issues [here](/diary-studies/diary-troubleshooting/troubleshooting-camera-and-microphone-permissions-for-desktop-diary-activities).
5. On the bottom of your screen, click the **Complete Setup** button to proceed to your study.

{% hint style="info" %}
**Note:** You don't need the Dscout browser extension for desktop diary activities. You won't be asked to install anything—setup happens right in your Chrome or Edge browser.
{% endhint %}

{% hint style="info" %}
**Note:** We can only request browser-level permissions during web setup. If you still have trouble capturing videos, photos, or screen recordings after these steps, you may also need to grant operating system-level permissions to Chrome or Edge. Read more about [troubleshooting permissions issues](/diary-studies/diary-troubleshooting/troubleshooting-camera-and-microphone-permissions-for-desktop-diary-activities).
{% endhint %}


# Installing the Dscout browser extension

[**Click here**](https://chromewebstore.google.com/detail/dscout/mjfgpadamkbikpdgpenjhnpckhdpcbcd?pli=1) to download the Dscout browser extension!

In order to participate in desktop usability tests, intercept studies, and AI moderated studies, you need to install our [Dscout browser extension](https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/dscout-diary/mjfgpadamkbikpdgpenjhnpckhdpcbcd), which is a small software program we built that allows you to answer study questions from your desktop or laptop computer, including capturing videos, photos and screen recordings.

{% hint style="info" %}
**Note:** **Desktop diary activities don't require the browser extension.** You complete those right in your Chrome or Edge browser, and you won't be asked to install anything. You may still need the extension for other kinds of Dscout studies, such as desktop usability tests and intercept studies.
{% endhint %}

## Downloading the extension in Google Chrome

Follow these steps to download the extension:

1. In a Chrome web browser, click on this [link](https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/dscout-diary/mjfgpadamkbikpdgpenjhnpckhdpcbcd).
2. Click on the **Add to Chrome** button on the top-right corner of your screen.
3. A mini dialogue box will pop-up that provides you with additional details about the extension's permissions. To finish installing the extension, click on the **Add extension** button on the bottom-right corner of the box.

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/yDo5Qr891i4T5bD0p1b3/35668862994068" alt="" width="563">

&#x20;

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/clwphuhOH7qlGTSbzu5i/35668862994836" alt="" width="563">

### Download the extension in Microsoft Edge

1. In an Edge web browser, click on this [link](https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/dscout-diary/mjfgpadamkbikpdgpenjhnpckhdpcbcd).

   <div data-gb-custom-block data-tag="hint" data-style="info" class="hint hint-info"><p><strong>Note:</strong> You may be prompted to switch to Chrome. If that happens, click <strong>No thanks</strong>.</p></div>
2. Click on the **Get** button on the top-right corner of your screen.
3. A mini dialogue box will pop-up asking you to allow Edge to download extensions from other stores, (in this case, the Chrome Store); click on **Allow** to proceed.
4. Another mini dialogue box will appear that provides you with additional details about the extension's permissions. To finish installing the extension, click on the **Add extension** button to finish installing the extension.

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/wc4GjG0kyxxnOVltStrX/35668866014100" alt="" width="563">

&#x20;

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/TI4ddgdtJWROzmWtkWmK/35668866014868" alt="" width="563">

&#x20;

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/h2iLdft2gHOiUFxLDWmT/35668866015636" alt="" width="563">

## About Dscout's extension permissions

**Read and change data on websites:** Dscout uses the permission 'read and change all your data on the websites you visit' to render our widget UI, (the container where you view and answer questions), on any site you choose to visit in the course of completing an entry. The Dscout browser extension only reads and modifies content on the sites you visit in order to display the widget and improve Dscout’s functionality. Dscout never uses or sells this data for marketing purposes. Please see our [Privacy Policy](https://dscout.com/legal/scout-privacy).

**Display notifications:** Notifications are only displayed when an upload has succeeded or failed after submitting an entry—there aren’t any invasive or "random" pop ups that we'll send you.

**Capture content on screen:** This permission is required for screen recording questions—content is only captured while you are actively recording your screen, so if the study you're participating in doesn’t have a screen recording requirement, nothing will be captured.


# Diary troubleshooting

Use this section for magic link problems, upload issues, camera and microphone setup, and closed study questions.

### Explore this section

* [Magic link issues in desktop Diary activities](/diary-studies/diary-troubleshooting/magic-link-issues-in-desktop-diary-activities): Fix expired links, missing emails, and sign-in issues.
* [Accessing closed studies](/diary-studies/diary-troubleshooting/accessing-closed-studies): Find old studies and understand what closed status means.
* [General troubleshooting for desktop diary studies and usability tests](/diary-studies/diary-troubleshooting/general-troubleshooting-for-desktop-diary-single-session-studies): Start here for browser, permissions, and upload checks.
* [Upload issues and troubleshooting steps for desktop Diary activities](/diary-studies/diary-troubleshooting/upload-issues-and-troubleshooting-steps-for-desktop-diary-activities): Fix stuck uploads, missing media, and failed submissions.
* [Camera and microphone issues in desktop Diary activities](/diary-studies/diary-troubleshooting/camera-and-microphone-issues-in-desktop-diary-activities): Check hardware and browser-level issues.
* [Troubleshooting camera and microphone permissions for desktop Diary activities](/diary-studies/diary-troubleshooting/troubleshooting-camera-and-microphone-permissions-for-desktop-diary-activities): Fix permission settings on Mac, PC, Chrome, or Edge.

### Start with these

If you're not sure where to begin, read these first:

1. [General troubleshooting for desktop diary studies and usability tests](/diary-studies/diary-troubleshooting/general-troubleshooting-for-desktop-diary-single-session-studies)
2. [Upload issues and troubleshooting steps for desktop Diary activities](/diary-studies/diary-troubleshooting/upload-issues-and-troubleshooting-steps-for-desktop-diary-activities)
3. [Troubleshooting camera and microphone permissions for desktop Diary activities](/diary-studies/diary-troubleshooting/troubleshooting-camera-and-microphone-permissions-for-desktop-diary-activities)


# Magic link issues in desktop Diary activities

When you’re ready to start a desktop activity in a diary study, you’ll click **Get Started** on that activity in the Dscout mobile app, and then follow the prompt to email yourself a magic link. Magic links are how we help you make the transition from the Dscout mobile app to your desktop or laptop. When opened in a Chrome or Edge browser on your computer, the magic link will authenticate you (so you don’t have to login again on desktop) and bring you into an onboarding flow for the specific activity you’re working on.

If you’ve emailed yourself a magic link but are having trouble accessing your study, try some of the troubleshooting steps below.

## My magic link is expired

For security purposes, magic links expire in 24 hours and each link can only be used once. If it’s been more than 24 hours since you sent yourself the link, or you’re trying to re-use a link, you’ll hit an expiration page.

Try sending yourself a new magic link by clicking **Get Started** or **New Entry** on the relevant desktop activity in the Dscout mobile app, then following the prompt to send yourself a new magic link.

If your magic link is showing as expired on first click, within minutes of sending it to yourself, it’s possible that your email client (e.g. Gmail, Outlook) is consuming the link before you click it. We recommend you follow the steps below to [access your study without using a magic link](#how-can-i-access-my-mission-without-using-a-magic-link).

## I didn’t receive my magic link email

We send the magic link to the email address associated with your Dscout account. You’ll receive this email from <participate@dscout.com> with **Your magic link for Activity ‘...’ of the ‘...’ diary study** in the subject.

If you’re not receiving the magic link email, please double check the email address in your Dscout profile on the mobile app for any typos or spelling errors.

If you want to change the address your magic link is sent to, you can update the email address in your scout profile on the mobile app, then resend the magic link.

If you’ve double checked your email address and are still having issues, it’s possible that all emails from [participate@dscout.com](mailto:participates@dscout.com) -- for magic links, but also notifications for Dscout messages, comments, study invites, etc. -- are being marked as spam or junk. Check the spam/junk folder in your email client, or try adding <participate@dscout.com> to your contacts or safe sender list, then resending the magic link.

If you’ve tried all the above and still aren’t receiving magic link emails, we recommend you follow the steps below to [access your study without using a magic link](#how-can-i-access-my-mission-without-using-a-magic-link).

## How can I access my study without using a magic link?

In addition to using the magic link, you can also access diary studies with desktop activities from scout web homepage on your computer:

1. Make sure you’ve accepted your invite to the study from the Dscout mobile app on your phone.
2. Using a Chrome or Edge browser on your desktop or laptop computer, navigate to <https://app.dscout.com/scouts/sign_in>.
3. Sign in to the scout web homepage using the same email address and password you use to access the Dscout mobile app on your phone.
4. Click on the relevant study to get started. (Note: Only diary studies with one or more desktop activities will display on the scout web homepage -- studies with all mobile activities will not display here.)

   <img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/P3qRStCZrM02uyQo1JZP/35669172042004" alt="" width="563">
5. You’ll be guided through a quick hardware check. After the hardware check, you’ll land on the study details page, where you can click **Get Started or New Entry** to begin a new entry for a desktop activity.

   <img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/dLqG5629u2dhaPXQmPZb/35669192609940" alt="" width="563">

{% hint style="info" %}
**Note:** Desktop diary activities don't require the Dscout browser extension, so there's nothing to install before you start.
{% endhint %}


# Accessing closed studies

When a study is no longer available or showing in the **In Progress** section of the app, it means that your study leader has closed you out in the study. Chances are they are reviewing your entries and will be reaching out with more information, including your reward information, in the next couple of days.

To access a closed or old study on Android devices, follow the directions below:

1. Navigate to your app's **Studies** tab (rocket icon).
2. Tap on the "Closed studies" bar at the bottom of the tab.
3. Here you'll see all of your completed studies in addition to the date the study was closed as well as the reward amount.

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/03NiBFW51G5qnq3eav89/35669159326740" alt="" width="563">

&#x20;

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/IRCEbMlghHhKziThAVPH/35669159327508" alt="" width="563">


# General troubleshooting for desktop Diary single-session studies

## Have you installed Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge?

Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge are the only browsers that are compatible with desktop diary studies and usability studies.

* [Download the latest version of the Google Chrome browser here](https://www.google.com/chrome/)
* [Download the latest version of Microsoft Edge here](https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/edge/download?form=MA13FJ)

## Do you need the Dscout browser extension?

**Desktop diary activities don't require the Dscout browser extension.** You complete those right in your Chrome or Edge browser, and you won't be asked to install anything. If you already have the extension installed, you can leave it in place—it won't interfere.

{% hint style="info" %}
**Finishing an entry you started before October 20, 2026?** For a limited time, a draft you saved using the extension is finished in the extension. If you're asked to open or install the extension when you resume a draft, that's expected. Finish that entry the way you started it. Any new entry you start is extension-free.

To avoid being sent to the extension for a draft you started without it, resume that draft in the same browser on the same computer where you began. Clearing your browsing data or switching browsers can cause Dscout to treat it as an extension draft.
{% endhint %}

If you're participating in a **usability test**, you do need the extension—it's a small software program we built that allows you to answer study questions from your desktop or laptop computer, including capturing videos, photos and screen recordings.

* [Download the Browser Extension here](https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/dscout-diary/mjfgpadamkbikpdgpenjhnpckhdpcbcd)

## Camera/Microphone troubleshooting

Diary studies with desktop activities often require you to capture videos, photos, or screen recordings! You'll need a laptop/desktop with a working camera and microphone in order to complete a diary study with desktop activities.

* See how to grant camera and microphone permissions [here](/diary-studies/diary-technical-requirements/how-to-grant-camera-and-microphone-permissions-for-desktop-diary-activities)
* To troubleshoot permissions issues with camera, microphone or screen recording, click [here](/diary-studies/diary-troubleshooting/troubleshooting-camera-and-microphone-permissions-for-desktop-diary-activities)
* To check for other non-permissions issues with camera or microphone, click [here](/diary-studies/diary-troubleshooting/camera-and-microphone-issues-in-desktop-diary-activities).

## Upload troubleshooting

There could be a number of reasons why your entries or media files aren’t uploading properly. The factors that affect the success of your upload can range from the size of your attached media file to the strength and consistency of your internet connection.

* For upload issues and troubleshooting steps for desktop Diary activities, click [here](/diary-studies/diary-troubleshooting/upload-issues-and-troubleshooting-steps-for-desktop-diary-activities).


# Upload issues and troubleshooting steps for desktop Diary activities

When you answer a question with a photo or video, Dscout uploads it right away, before you move on to the next question. You'll see an upload progress bar, and you won't be able to continue until it finishes. This helps address upload issues in the moment and avoid complications when receiving your incentive after completing a study.

{% hint style="info" %}
**Note:** These steps are for entries you complete on a computer. If you need to fix an upload problem on an entry submitted in the Dscout mobile app, see [Upload issues troubleshooting steps for Dscout mobile app](/troubleshooting/upload-issues-troubleshooting-steps-for-dscout-mobile-app).
{% endhint %}

### If an upload fails

You'll see **Upload failed** with a **Retry** button. Try these troubleshooting steps:

1. **Click Retry.** Most failed uploads are a brief connection blip, and a second attempt works.
2. **Check your internet connection**, then click **Retry** again. If you're on Wi-Fi, move closer to your router, or plug in with an ethernet cable if you can.
3. **Stay on the page while it uploads.** A large video can take several minutes. Don't close the tab or let your computer go to sleep until you see it complete.
4. **Try a different network** if **Retry** keeps failing. A phone hotspot often works when a corporate or school network is blocking the upload.
5. **Check for work or school restrictions.** If you're on a work or school computer, security software or a VPN may be blocking the upload. If you can, try again on a personal computer, or ask your IT team.

### If you closed your browser before an upload finished

Your photo or video is saved in your browser, so you haven't lost it. Reopen the entry in **the same browser on the same computer**, and you'll see a **Welcome back!** message letting you finish the upload before you continue.

Two things to avoid until that upload is done:

* **Don't clear your browsing data** (cookies and site data) for dscout.com. That deletes the saved file.
* **Don't switch browsers or computers, and don't open the entry in a private or incognito window.** The saved file only exists in the browser you started in.

### If your file won't upload at all

If you see a message about the file format, the file type isn't supported. Dscout accepts:

* **Photos:** JPEG or PNG
* **Videos:** MPEG, MP4, QuickTime, or WebM

Try re-recording, or converting the file to one of these formats, then upload again.

### Your entry is missing

If you started an entry and don't see it, check your drafts—an entry you haven't submitted yet is saved as a draft and you can pick it back up. For more information, see [Manage draft entries in a diary study](/diary-studies/participate-in-diary-studies/manage-draft-entries-in-a-diary-study).

If an entry you already submitted has disappeared, email <help@dscout.com> so our Support team can investigate.

### If you're finishing an entry you started in the extension

For a limited time, drafts you saved using the Dscout browser extension before October 20, 2026 are finished in the extension. Those entries upload the way they used to: after you submit, not question by question. Use these steps for those entries only.

1. Click the Dscout browser extension icon in your browser to open the pop-up.
2. Open the **Uploads** tab. A red dot means an upload is in progress. Stay on the page and wait for it to finish before you close your browser.
3. If an upload failed, click **Retry**.
4. If media is missing from an entry you already submitted, find it in the **Uploads** tab and click the **Download** icon to save the file to your computer. Then email it to <help@dscout.com> and include the study name, activity name, and entry number.

The **Uploads** tab only shows uploads that are in progress or have failed. If nothing is listed there, there's nothing to retry.

### If none of this works

Email <help@dscout.com> and include:

* The study name
* The activity name
* What you were trying to upload, and what you saw on screen

If you still have the photo or video on your computer, attach it to the email. If it's larger than 25 MB, upload it to Google Drive, Dropbox, or another file-sharing service and send a shareable link instead—make sure anyone with the link can view it.

It's also worth messaging your study leader from the Dscout app, so they know why your entry is held up.


# Camera and microphone issues in desktop Diary activities

If you’re testing your setup and our system doesn’t recognize your camera or microphone, try some of the troubleshooting methods listed below.

## Camera issues

* **Make sure nothing is blocking your camera.** We’re all human. You might not see anything (or a black screen) in your camera test because something is literally blocking it.
* **Make sure you’ve selected the correct camera.** Newer models of laptops and computers come with internal cameras. If you’re using an external camera (i.e. one that you plug into your computer using a USB port), you may have to choose that camera instead of your computer’s internal camera.
* **Close out any other applications that may be using your camera.** There may be another program that is actively using your camera. Please make sure you close out any of those programs.
* **Test your camera on another Chrome- or Edge-based video application.** If you have access to a Gmail account, you can test your camera on Google Hangouts, which is another video-conferencing tool.
* **Quit and restart Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge**.

***Pro tip:*** *Did none of these methods help? Maybe your issue is with permissions. Please make sure that you’ve given Dscout permission to access your camera. Read more about how to do that* [*here*](/diary-studies/diary-troubleshooting/troubleshooting-camera-and-microphone-permissions-for-desktop-diary-activities)*.*

## Microphone issues

* Are your headphones plugged in? The Dscout app may sometimes not recognize your microphone if you have your headphones plugged into the auxiliary jack. Unplug the headphones and see if that lets Dscout recognize your microphone.
* Try saying something! When you test your set-up, the microphone portion of your test will pass if your microphone picks up any sound. This test is very sensitive, so try saying something aloud and see if that fixes the issue.
* Make sure you’ve selected the correct microphone. Newer models of laptops and computers come with internal microphones. However, if you’re using an external microphone (such as one connected to a headset or one that you plug into the USB port), you may have to manually select that microphone during set-up.
* Double check your computer’s microphone settings. Maybe you haven’t enabled your microphone or there’s something wrong with your computer’s internal settings. Please double check them and try again.
* Quit and restart Google Chrome or Edge.

***Pro tip:*** *Did none of these methods help? Maybe your issue is with permissions. Please make sure that you’ve given Dscout permission to access your microphone. Read more about how to do that* [*here.*](/diary-studies/diary-troubleshooting/troubleshooting-camera-and-microphone-permissions-for-desktop-diary-activities)


# Troubleshooting camera and microphone permissions for desktop Diary activities

## Troubleshooting camera and microphone permissions

In order to participate in a diary study with desktop activities, Dscout needs permission from both **your computer’s operating system** and **your Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge browser** to access your camera, your microphone, and - for some Mac users - your screen recording capability.

If you get an error message when you try to record a video, capture a screen recording, or take a photo as you complete a desktop activity, it’s possible that you’re experiencing some kind of permission issue. Read more below.

## Operating system permission issues for Mac

To ensure Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge has access to your Mac’s Camera, Microphone and/or Screen Recording capability, follow the steps below.

{% hint style="info" %}
**Note:** The **Screen Recording** permission was introduced in macOS Catalina — version 10.15. If you’re on an earlier macOS version, you won’t have that setting or need to change it.
{% endhint %}

1. Manually open System Preferences, click the "Security and Privacy" icon and then choose “Camera,” Microphone,” and/or "Screen Recording" in the sidebar.

   We’re using “Screen Recording” as an example here, but you’ll need to ensure Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge has access to all three capabilities (or just to Camera and Microphone, if you’re not on mac OS Catalina).

   <img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/39yr1wS9dFFatlC9HTx6/35669001910036" alt="" width="563">
2. In the Screen Recording section, click the box next to Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge to allow access for your Dscout diary study with desktop activities. You may need to click the lock icon in the bottom-left to make changes.

   <img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/GahEPElFnH9mAh6S8qsF/35668988619028" alt="" width="563">
3. A pop-up should appear indicating that Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge will need to be quit before it is able to record the contents of your screen. Click "Quit Now" to exit out of all running instances of Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge.

   <img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/ea7ZHw4nWeFcDRluSLYo/35669001913748" alt="" width="563">
4. Repeat steps 2 and 3 for the “Camera” and “Microphone” sections in your computer’s Security & Privacy settings, if necessary.
5. Reopen Chrome or Edge and finish your web setup by [granting Dscout camera and microphone permissions](/diary-studies/diary-technical-requirements/how-to-grant-camera-and-microphone-permissions-for-desktop-diary-activities)!

{% hint style="info" %}
**Note:** If you disable the Camera, Microphone, or Screen Recording permissions in System Preferences, you’ll need to enable them again later.
{% endhint %}

## Operating system permission issues for PC

To ensure Google Chrome has access to your PC’s Camera and Microphone, follow the steps below.

1. To ensure Camera permissions are enabled, go to **Start** > **Settings** > **Privacy** > **Camera**.
2. Under **Choose which apps can access your camera**, make sure the setting for Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge is **On**.

   <img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/W8FvzThriaJDYsKSsvC2/35668988623892" alt="" width="563">
3. To ensure Microphone permissions are enabled, go to **Start** > **Settings** > **Privacy** > **Microphone**.
4. Under **Choose which apps can access your microphone**, make sure the setting for Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge is **On**.

   <img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/ReKebtOpYfkTDj6NOQq1/35668988624660" alt="" width="563">
5. For these settings to take effect, you’ll need to quit out of all running instances of Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge.
6. Reopen Chrome or Edge and finish your web setup by [granting Dscout camera and microphone permissions](/diary-studies/diary-technical-requirements/how-to-grant-camera-and-microphone-permissions-for-desktop-diary-activities)!

{% hint style="info" %}
**Note:** If you disable the Camera or Microphone permissions in Settings, you’ll need to enable them again later.
{% endhint %}

## Browser permission issues

During web setup, Chrome or Edge should show a dialog box asking you to [grant Dscout permission to use your Microphone and Camera](/diary-studies/diary-technical-requirements/how-to-grant-camera-and-microphone-permissions-for-desktop-diary-activities).

If the Camera and Microphone permission prompts don't show up during setup, try clicking on the Camera icon on the right side of the browser address bar. See below.

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/by1Z4SVygLnruhZHkOM3/35668988626452" alt="" width="563">

Clicking this option should either open up the permissions dialog box or show that your camera or microphone has been blocked.

Additionally, we recommend taking the following steps to make sure permissions are not blocked for Dscout in your web browser:

1. Open a Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge web browser window.
2. At the top right next to your address bar, click on the **More** icon (the three dots icon).
3. Click **Settings** at the bottom of the dropdown menu.
4. Google Chrome users:
   1. Click **Privacy and security**
   2. Click **Site Settings**.
   3. Click **Camera or Microphone**.
   4. Check if dscout.com is blocked for Camera and Microphone. If it is, remove the existing exception by clicking on the **Delete** icon to the right of the site.
5. Microsoft Edge users:
   1. Click **Cookies and Site Permissions**
   2. Click **All Sites**
   3. Locate dscout.com and verify that camera and microphone permissions are set to **allow**.

## Other camera, microphone, and screensharing issues

If adjusting your permissions settings at both the operating system level and the Chrome browser level has not resolved your issue, check for these [other camera and microphone issues](/diary-studies/diary-troubleshooting/camera-and-microphone-issues-in-desktop-diary-activities) related to hardware and connectivity.

Additionally, if the device you're using is a work or school computer, there may be IT software installed that forbids screen sharing; to resolve these issues, we recommend that you reach out to your company's or school's IT team.

## Still having trouble?

If none of the above steps have helped you resolve your issues with capturing videos, photos, or screen recordings, reach out to our Support team at <help@dscout.com> with a description of the problem, the study name, and the activity you're working on.


# Interview technical requirements

Check the setup you need before an interview session.

Use this section to confirm browser support, device requirements, screen sharing setup, and pre-test steps.

### Explore this section

* [Streaming a mobile device to a desktop interview session](/interview-studies/interview-technical-requirements/streaming-a-mobile-device-to-a-desktop-interview-session) — mirror your phone screen into a desktop interview session.
* [Interview browser compatibility](/interview-studies/interview-technical-requirements/interview-browser-compatibility) — check which browsers work for desktop interview.
* [Technical requirements for interview studies](/interview-studies/interview-technical-requirements/technical-requirements-for-interviews) — confirm your computer, browser, and internet setup.
* [Interview pre-test: Scout Overview + Troubleshooting](/interview-studies/interview-technical-requirements/interview-pre-test-scout-overview-troubleshooting) — run the pre-test and troubleshoot setup failures.
* [Enable screen recording permissions for interviews](/interview-studies/interview-technical-requirements/enable-screen-recording-permissions-for-interviews) — allow screen sharing on supported Mac devices.

### Start with these

Before your session, read these first:

1. [Technical requirements for interview studies](/interview-studies/interview-technical-requirements/technical-requirements-for-interviews)
2. [Interview browser compatibility](/interview-studies/interview-technical-requirements/interview-browser-compatibility)
3. [Interview pre-test: Scout Overview + Troubleshooting](/interview-studies/interview-technical-requirements/interview-pre-test-scout-overview-troubleshooting)


# Streaming a mobile device to a desktop interview session

When participating in a desktop interview session, you may be asked to share your mobile phone screen to discuss a mobile app, phone behavior, or other mobile-related task; this is sometimes referred to as screencasting, screen mirroring, streaming, tethering, or Airplay (for iOS users only). Tap the device you'll be streaming from below to follow our instructions for sharing your phone screen in a desktop interview session!

### Mirror your iPhone to a computer (Airplay)

1. Connect your iPhone or iPad to the same Wi-Fi network as your Apple TV, AirPlay-compatible smart TV, or Mac.
2. Open Control Center:
   * On iPhone X or later: Swipe down from the upper-right corner of the screen.
   * On iPhone 8 or earlier or iOS 11 or earlier: Swipe up from the bottom edge of the screen.
3. Tap Screen Mirroring.
4. Select your computer from the list.
5. If an AirPlay passcode appears on your computer, enter the passcode on your iPhone.
6. Begin screensharing in your interview session; be sure to select the option to share your entire screen to ensure your Airplay screencast is captured!

*Disclaimer: Airplay permissions must be set to all users on the same network. (System Settings > General > AirDrop & Handoff > Allow AirPlay for: Anyone on the Same Network)*

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/TEoWSj3siGfRJJRo4y1a/35669546610068" alt="" width="563">

### Mirror your Android to a computer (Airdroid)

#### Getting started

1. Download Airdroid from the Google Play Store or Airdroid personal for web
2. Ensure your mobile device and desktop are connected to the same wifi local network
3. Create an Airdroid account and use the same login for your mobile and desktop devices

#### Screen mirroring

1. From the Security & Remote Features on Airdroid, click on the Grant permission button on your Android screen.
2. After entering the Remote Control module from your PC application, click on the Screen Mirroring button to establish a connection.
3. Begin screensharing in your interview session; be sure to select the option to share your entire screen to ensure your screencast is captured!

*Disclaimer: If you have any trouble with Airdroid, refer to their guides* [*here*](https://www.airdroid.com/guide/airdroid-personal/#part5)*.*

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/Pd8OMViCIJDkmKV7EaoG/35669542738964" alt="" width="563">


# Interview browser compatibility

Google Chrome (version 80 and newer) and Microsoft Edge (version 130 and newer) are the only browsers that are compatible with desktop interview studies. (If you're participating in a mobile interview study, check out your tech requirements [here](/interview-studies/participate-in-interview-studies/mobile-interview-participation-guidelines-walkthrough)!)

If you don’t have Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge installed on your computer, please download either of these browser options using the links below:

* [Download the latest version of the Google Chrome browser here](https://www.google.com/chrome/)
* [Download the latest version of Microsoft Edge here](https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/edge/download?form=MA13FJ)


# Technical requirements for interview studies

Your computer must have a few things for desktop interviews to work properly. This includes:

1. **Working speakers (or headphones you can use), camera, and microphone.** If you don’t have a built-in camera or microphone, external ones will work just fine.
2. **Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge web browser.** You'll need to install and use Chrome or Edge as your browser during your [Interview pre-test](/interview-studies/interview-technical-requirements/interview-pre-test-scout-overview-troubleshooting) and session.
3. **A strong internet connection.** During your interview pre-test, you'll be asked to test your internet connection. If the indicator turns yellow or red, consider moving closer to your WiFi router or connecting to your internet via ethernet cable.

For mobile interview requirements, check out [this article](/interview-studies/participate-in-interview-studies/mobile-interview-participation-guidelines-walkthrough).

If you run into any issues with these steps, reach out to our Support team [here](https://help.dscout.com/hc/en-us/requests/new) for assistance.


# Interview pre-test scout overview troubleshooting

The interview pre-test, required for participation in a desktop interview study, ensures that your system is equipped and ready for an interview session. In order to schedule a session, you'll need to successfully pass your pre-test, so it's important you do so as soon as possible after receiving your study invitation!

In the event you encounter issues while trying to pass your pre-test, we've included troubleshooting for all of the system checks below.

### Locating the pre-test

Your pre-test is contained within your interview session link, so no need to locate a separate link! All you'll need to do is open up your session link and run through the prompts. Your session link can be found in these places:

1. Your original invitation email
2. By logging into [app.dscout.com](https://app.dscout.com/) with the email address your invitation was sent to. If you've accepted your invitation, the study will appear in the "In Progress" tab. If you haven't accepted your invitation, the study will appear in your "Invites" tab. Simply tap on your study to arrive at your session link!

#### *Invitation email*

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/kLTtkp8efXej4maTEXo1/35669487933332" alt="" width="563">

#### *In Progress tab*

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/84F0J34JWCjxjhpggyWu/35669487933588" alt="" width="563">

#### *Invites tab*

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/dGMqujhbzlo07INYn4Rn/35669500720404" alt="" width="563">

### Completing the pre-test

1. Navigate to your session link (instructions above for locating your link!) using a Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge browser.
2. Tap on the button at the bottom of the page that says "Start Hardware Setup." (If you haven't accepted your invitation, you will first see a button that says "Accept Study.")
3. This will take you to a page where your camera, microphone, speakers, and connection will be tested for compatibility. **Be sure to grant camera and microphone permissions when prompted!**
4. After passing the tests, tap "Complete Hardware Setup" at the top right of the page

*Hardware setup*

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/csOHCjiFGLanEKEVoPtJ/35669487933972" alt="" width="563">

*Pre-Test (Hardware Setup)*

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/pWHRS6ermAVysCDw24Za/35669500721556" alt="" width="563">

*Scheduler*

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/KsV568Q3E70lnoeQ2YOy/35669416349972" alt="" width="563">

### Browser compatibility

Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge are the only browsers that are compatible with interview studies, so you'll need to install one of these in order to have your video conversation.

* If you've downloaded Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge, be sure to open your session link/pre-test in a Chrome or Edge browser. Otherwise, you'll continue to see the Chrome or Edge pre-test error.

### Video/Audio troubleshooting

Interview study is a video research tool, so you'll need a laptop/desktop with a working camera and microphone in order to complete a desktop interview session.

* For general camera, microphone, and sound/headphone troubleshooting, click [here](/interview-studies/interview-troubleshooting/camera-microphone-and-sound-issues-for-interviews).
* See how to grant audio & video permissions [here.](/interview-studies/interview-troubleshooting/interview-camera-and-microphone-permissions-and-access-troubleshooting)

### Bandwidth

Bandwidth is how we test the strength of your internet connection. A weak connection won't stop you from joining your session, but it can affect audio and video quality, so it's worth testing on the same network you'll use for your session. Here are some recommendations for improving your internet connection:

* Close out of all other programs and browsing sessions on your computer.
* Move closer to your router.
* Connect to your internet via ethernet cable.

### Firewall

If you’re using an antivirus or firewall software, you'll need to ensure Chrome or Edge and Dscout are trusted/allowed by these programs.

* See how to troubleshoot firewall issues [here](/troubleshooting/troubleshooting-firewall-issues).


# Enable screen recording permissions for interviews

If you are running macOS Catalina — version 10.15 — or later, you must grant access to the new Screen Recording Permission in order to share your screen during an interview session. Changing this security setting requires you to restart the Chrome browser, so be sure you complete this and any other readiness checks more than 24 hours before your session.

### How to grant access to Chrome Screen Recording Permission

1. Manually open **System Settings**
2. Click on **Privacy & Security**
3. Scroll down and choose **Screen & System Audio Recording** in the sidebar
4. Click the box next to **Google Chrome** or **Microsoft Edge** (select the browser you'll be using for your session) to allow screen sharing for your interview session.
5. A pop-up should appear indicating that Chrome or Edge will need to be quit before it is able to record the contents of your screen. Click **"Quit Now"** to exit out of all running instances of Google Chrome.
6. **Reopen your browser** and finish your [Interview to-do list](/interview-studies/participate-in-interview-studies/your-desktop-interview-to-do-list)!

{% hint style="info" %}
**Note:** If you disable the **Screen Recording** permission in System Preferences, you’ll need to enable it again later.
{% endhint %}

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/tGhzBK91qKBqj8zcE3pw/35669478890516" alt="" width="563">

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/cUHXlsXmQ8ztzEdh2iZS/35669478891540" alt="" width="563">

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/NqtRTCtOI4kwxDSmgULP/35669478893076" alt="" width="563">


# Participate in interview studies

Learn what to expect before, during, and after an interview study.

Use this section to accept your invite, complete setup, schedule your session, and join on time.

### Explore this section

* [Participating in interview studies](/interview-studies/participate-in-interview-studies/participating-in-interview-studies) — understand invitations, scheduling, joining, and session guidelines.
* [Your desktop interview To-Do List](/interview-studies/participate-in-interview-studies/your-desktop-interview-to-do-list) — complete the key desktop setup steps before your session.
* [What is an interview study](/interview-studies/participate-in-interview-studies/what-is-an-interview-study) — get the quick overview of how interview studies work.
* [mobile interview: Participation Guidelines + Walkthrough](/interview-studies/participate-in-interview-studies/mobile-interview-participation-guidelines-walkthrough) — review the mobile experience and session best practices.

### Start with these

If this is your first interview study, read these first:

1. [What is an interview study](/interview-studies/participate-in-interview-studies/what-is-an-interview-study)
2. [Participating in interview studies](/interview-studies/participate-in-interview-studies/participating-in-interview-studies)
3. [Your desktop interview To-Do List](/interview-studies/participate-in-interview-studies/your-desktop-interview-to-do-list)


# Participating in interview studies

## How to accept your invitation

To accept your invitation to the study, follow these steps:

1. Log into your account on the Dscout mobile app.
2. Find the tab labeled **Studies** (rocket icon) on the bottom navigation bar and tap on it.
3. Find the study you’ve been invited to under the **Invites** section and tap on the image to continue.
4. When you tap on the card, you’ll land on the **Study Overview** page. You can read up more about the study details, instructions, structure, and invite date here.
5. To accept the invitation and get started, tap on **Accept Invitation**.
6. To decline the invitation, tap on **Decline**.
7. If you want to message your study leader(s), tap on the **messaging icon** in the top right corner of the screen. Any message you send here will go directly to your study leader(s).

*Desktop:*

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/zKmUEdqKHTctwppaaGxm/35669420268308" alt="" width="563">

*Mobile:*

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/K8eC8oRq4sZnilYwMfdZ/35668627333908" alt="" width="563">

{% hint style="info" %}
**Note:** You can accept a desktop interview invitation without using the Dscout mobile app. Open the link in your invitation email, sign in, complete your [Interview pre-test](#h_c19ac636-c1e7-4711-b859-91fa1a1719e5), and schedule a time.
{% endhint %}

## Who is/are your study leader(s)?

Study leaders are the folks in charge; we also call them moderators for interview studies. They're the ones you'll be having a conversation with during your interview session. They're also available in case you have questions that aren't answered in the study overview or instructions, or if you have trouble [scheduling](#h_5f6f0dc7-6d94-4edf-ab00-f61eb0f6a1d6) and [rescheduling](#h_82a8b383-c945-4e08-b8e5-020b3619c90a) a session. You can contact yours by tapping the "Messages" tab while viewing a study in the app, or by replying directly to your email invitation.

## Requirements for getting paid

So long as you schedule a session, call in at your scheduled time, and successfully complete the session, your study leader(s) will mark you as approved for payments!

## Completing your interview pre-test

Complete these tasks more than 24 hours before your session. It is important to be set up well in advance so you can grab a timeslot before they're all gone. The pre-test also helps ensure that you'll be able to call into your interview session on time! If you are more than 10 minutes late, you could be marked as a no-show and may not have another opportunity to participate.

To make this experience as smooth as possible, here’s your to-do list!

### desktop interview

1. Make sure you have Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge installed on a computer with a microphone and a webcam.
2. Complete your interview pre-test by clicking on the session link in your invitation email. Follow the prompts here to test your connectivity, camera, microphone, and speakers to make sure your set-up is good to go for your call!

If your **camera, microphone, or browser** check fails, take a screenshot and send us an email [here](mailto:live@dscout.com) for support. We also recommend checking out [this troubleshooting document](/interview-studies/interview-technical-requirements/interview-pre-test-scout-overview-troubleshooting) if you're short on time!

A weak **connection** check won't stop you from scheduling or joining your session—see [Improve your interview session quality](/interview-studies/interview-troubleshooting/improve-your-interview-call-quality) for ways to strengthen it before your call.

### mobile interview

1. Navigate to your interview study via the **Studies** tab
2. Complete the "Pre-Session Checklist" items at the bottom of the study to test your audio, camera, and learn about screensharing. Once you complete each check, a green checkmark will appear next to the item so you know it's complete.

## Scheduling your interview session

Once you've completed your interview pre-test, it's time to schedule your session! How you schedule your interview session depends on what type of scheduling the study leader(s) has/have enabled. Read more about the two options below:

### Automatic scheduling

If the study leader(s) has/have pre-determined their availability with pre-booked sessions, you'll be able to select from a list of available time slots immediately after you complete your interview pre-test. Check out the steps below:

{% stepper %}
{% step %}
After you accept your study and complete the [hardware setup (pre-test) process](/interview-studies/interview-technical-requirements/interview-pre-test-scout-overview-troubleshooting), you'll be able to see all the available time slots that your study leader(s) has/have chosen.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Select the time slot you would like to reserve (*please note*: all time slots will be listed in your system’s timezone).
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Click the **Confirm Time Slot** button to finish reserving the date and time of your interview session.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
After booking, you will receive a scheduling confirmation email. You will also receive reminders 1 day and 1 hour before your scheduled session.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

{% hint style="info" %}
**For mobile interview:** you'll be prompted to schedule a time when you accept your invite. If you weren't, you can also navigate to your study via the app and tap "Choose time slot" to pick a time!
{% endhint %}

{% hint style="info" %}
**Note:** No more time slots available? Reach out to your study leader. They may be out of openings, or they may be able to schedule your session manually.
{% endhint %}

*Desktop:*

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/KsV568Q3E70lnoeQ2YOy/35669416349972" alt="" width="563">

*Mobile:*

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/LxgdhOJET7FFbBaROcFZ/35669420274836" alt="" width="563">

### Manual scheduling

If your study leader(s) has/have chosen to **manually schedule** sessions, you won't be able to select from a predetermined list of times immediately after you complete your pre-test (see screenshot below). Instead, your study leader(s) will contact you directly via email or in the Dscout mobile app to confirm a day and time. Keep an eye out for a message in both your email inbox and Dscout mobile app.

Once your scheduled time is confirmed and your study leader(s) schedule(s) it, you’ll receive a confirmation email. You'll also receive reminder emails 1 day before your session and 1 hour before your session.

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/JnpA37NbM0k2WiHOMdOQ/35669416353428" alt="" width="563">

## Rescheduling your interview session

How you reschedule your interview session depends on whether or not your study leader(s) has/have enabled our Automatic scheduling tool. Read more below.

### Rescheduling for Automatic sessions

If you need to reschedule your interview session and your study leader(s) has/have enabled our **Automatic scheduling tool** (reminder that this option lets you schedule your calls from a predetermined list of available time slots automatically after accepting your interview study), you can reschedule your call by following these steps.

{% hint style="info" %}
**Note:** You must do this before the day of your session. The **Reschedule** button is not available on the same day. For same-day changes, message your study leader.
{% endhint %}

* **For desktop interview:** Navigate to your session link, located in your original invite or via the "In Progress" section of your Studies tab. Tap the blue **Reschedule** button below the "You're all ready to go!" message.
* **For mobile interview:** navigate to your study and tap the **Reschedule** button just below your original session time.

{% hint style="info" %}
**Note:** You can’t reschedule within 24 hours of your original session time. If that happens, contact your study leader.
{% endhint %}

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/bIyyNMthRowS4MrpUq3G/35669420277780" alt="" width="563">

### Rescheduling for Manual sessions

If you need to reschedule your interview session and your study leader(s) has/have not enabled our **Automatic scheduling tool**, you’ll have to reschedule your session **manually**. To do this, simply contact your study leader(s) directly. You can do this by either messaging your study leader(s) in the app or by replying to your invitation or scheduling confirmation email.

## Joining your interview session

You’ll receive an email reminder exactly one hour before your scheduled call. The subject of this email will be **Scheduling reminder for ‘...’ interview study**. To join your interview session, follow the steps:

{% stepper %}
{% step %}
Access the reminder email and click the **Join Your interview session** button.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
You may be prompted to sign in. If you are, enter your email address and password and click **Sign In**.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
On the bottom of the interview session's detail screen, click the **Start Session** button to test your set-up one more time.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
At this point, Dscout will check your camera, microphone, sound, and internet connection, and confirm you're using Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge. Once the checks finish, click **Get Started** to join the waiting room.

{% hint style="info" %}
**Note:** A microphone problem or a weak internet connection won't stop you from joining. If either check comes back with a warning, you'll see tips for fixing it and the button will read **Join anyway**. You can click it to enter your session—but it's worth trying the suggestions first: a weak connection affects audio and video quality, and if your microphone isn't working your moderator won't be able to hear you.
{% endhint %}
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
When your moderator(s) join(s) the call, click the **Join** button to join the call.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

{% hint style="info" %}
**For mobile interview:** simply tap the "Join session" button. Your session will begin when your moderator(s) start(s) the call.
{% endhint %}

{% hint style="info" %}
**Note:** Closed captions are available in desktop interview sessions. Use the **CC** button in the bottom-right corner after your session starts. Closed captions are not currently supported in mobile interview sessions.
{% endhint %}

Having trouble? Check out [this document](/interview-studies/interview-technical-requirements/interview-pre-test-scout-overview-troubleshooting) for troubleshooting interview study setup issues.

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/c9XZkWCtNg4HLlp1QJ3O/35669416357524" alt="" width="563">

## Guidelines + Best Practices

* **Driving during sessions is not allowed.** It might sound obvious, but please don't interview study and drive.
* **Safety first!** Before the call, make sure to close out of any private data such as banking information, private conversations, or sensitive content.
* **Be attentive.** We understand that life still might be happening around you, but if possible, try to complete your session in a distraction-free space.
* **Keep it professional.** In many cases, clips from your interview session will be used by project teams for internal insights, share-outs, slide decks, etc.. With that in mind, please ensure you are reasonably dressed and limit the consumption of alcohol or illicit substances during your session.
* **Test your internet connection.** Your internet connection can make or break an interview session, but when it's good, you've got nothing to worry about! You'll be able to test your WiFi on the study page so you'll know whether or not you need to improve your connection. **Note:** we do not recommend using cellular data during your interview session.


# Your desktop interview to do list

Complete these tasks more than 24 hours before your session. It is important to be set up well in advance so you are on time to your interview session. If you are more than 10 minutes late, you could be marked as a no-show and may not have another opportunity to participate. **Be sure that you have a desktop or laptop computer with a webcam and microphone!**

1. Make sure you have [Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge](/interview-studies/interview-technical-requirements/interview-browser-compatibility) installed on your computer.
2. **If you are running macOS Catalina—version 10.15—or more recent**, [ensure that Chrome or Edge are granted access to the new Screen Recording Permission](/interview-studies/interview-technical-requirements/enable-screen-recording-permissions-for-interviews).
3. Complete your interview pre-test by clicking on the session link in your invitation email. Follow the prompts here to test your connectivity, camera, microphone, and speakers to make sure your set-up is good to go for your call!
4. Then return to your interview session link and run through the join call flow all the way through once. Once you reach the waiting room, you will see a screen with yourself in the bottom right corner and a message in the center of the screen that says, “This session is scheduled for…” followed by a series of helpful tips. In addition, you’ll see the moderator’s/moderators’ name/photo and whether they have connected to the session.
5. You can close out this link for now but be sure to come back to this link and follow the same flow when it's time for your session! See the steps outlined [here](/interview-studies/participate-in-interview-studies/participating-in-interview-studies).

If your **camera, microphone, or browser** check fails, take a screenshot and email it to us [here](mailto:live@dscout.com) for support, **at least 24 hours before your session,** and check out the following docs for troubleshooting:

* [Troubleshooting camera, microphone and sound issues](/interview-studies/interview-troubleshooting/camera-microphone-and-sound-issues-for-interviews)
* [Troubleshooting firewall issues](/troubleshooting/troubleshooting-firewall-issues)

If only your **connection** check comes back weak, you don't need to contact support—you'll still be able to join your session. See [Improve your interview session quality](/interview-studies/interview-troubleshooting/improve-your-interview-call-quality) for ways to strengthen your connection before your call.


# What is an interview study

An interview study is a research session that lets you engage in remote video with researchers.

Instead of recording a selfie-style video of yourself on your mobile device, you’ll be face-to-face with your study leader(s) either on your phone or laptop (you'll be told ahead of time which device you should use!). As opposed to typing out a response in the mobile app, an interview study lets you answer questions, expand on your thoughts, and provide additional context in real time.

Some interview sessions scouts have participated in the past include:

* Giving Dscout employees feedback on how to make the Dscout app better
* Showing researchers their new tattoos
* Explaining what is frustrating and confusing about new products and software

{% hint style="info" %}
**Note:** Applying to interview sessions works the same way as applying to diary studies. When you browse open studies in the **Explore** tab, read the overview before you apply to see whether it's an interview study. Researchers may also ask whether you’re comfortable with a video call.
{% endhint %}

Check out these articles to learn more about interview studies and their technical requirements:

* [Interview browser compatibility](/interview-studies/interview-technical-requirements/interview-browser-compatibility)
* [Participating in interview studies](/interview-studies/participate-in-interview-studies/participating-in-interview-studies)
* [Mobile interview: Walkthrough + Guidelines](/interview-studies/participate-in-interview-studies/mobile-interview-participation-guidelines-walkthrough)


# Mobile interview participation guidelines walkthrough

In this article you'll find a copy of the mobile interview walkthrough from the mobile app along with some best practices and guidelines for a successful.

### Minimum device requirements

Before accepting the study, please ensure that you meet the mobile interview technical requirements below:

* Device must be running at least OS versions Android 9.0 or iOS 16
* The latest version of the Dscout app

### Walkthrough

1\. This will be a face-to-face conversation on your phone in the Dscout app.

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/Ejorioun3wL5HuVdp3Wy/35669283138452" alt="" width="563">

2\. Your device is required to be connected to strong WiFi throughout the session.

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/aPXOPtRex0N9HDnQ14FE/35669283139092" alt="" width="563">

3\. You may be asked to share your screen during the session.

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/WDONyiD4j5VZDZgMDLnu/35669283139476" alt="" width="563">

4\. To minimize interruptions during your session, set your device to Do Not Disturb.

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/Mo9fkGP3XcIQ19tWJZon/35669283139860" alt="" width="563">

### Guidelines + Best Practices

* **Driving during sessions is not allowed.** It might sound obvious, but please don't interview study and drive.
* **Safety first!** Before the call, make sure to close out of any private data such as banking information, private conversations, or sensitive content.
* **Be attentive.** We understand that life still might be happening around you, but if possible, try to complete your session in a distraction-free space.
* **Keep it professional.** In many cases, clips from your interview session will be used by project teams for internal insights, share-outs, slide decks, etc.. With that in mind, please ensure you are reasonably dressed and limit the consumption of alcohol or illicit substances during your session.
* **Test your internet connection.** Your internet connection can make or break an interview session, but when it's good, you've got nothing to worry about! You'll be able to test your WiFi on the study page so you'll know whether or not you need to improve your connection. **Note:** we do not recommend using cellular data during your interview session.

Any questions? Contact us [here](https://participanthelp.dscout.com/hc/en-us/requests/new) and we'll be happy to help out!


# Interview troubleshooting

Troubleshoot audio, video, and connection issues in interview studies.

Use this section to improve call quality and fix camera, microphone, and sound problems.

### Explore this section

* [Improve your interview session quality](/interview-studies/interview-troubleshooting/improve-your-interview-call-quality) — improve your setup before and during the call.
* [Interview camera and microphone permissions and access troubleshooting](/interview-studies/interview-troubleshooting/interview-camera-and-microphone-permissions-and-access-troubleshooting) — fix permission and browser access issues.
* [Camera, microphone, and sound issues for interview studies](/interview-studies/interview-troubleshooting/camera-microphone-and-sound-issues-for-interviews) — troubleshoot hardware and audio problems.

### Start with these

If your interview study setup is not working, read these first:

1. [Improve your interview session quality](/interview-studies/interview-troubleshooting/improve-your-interview-call-quality)
2. [Interview camera and microphone permissions and access troubleshooting](/interview-studies/interview-troubleshooting/interview-camera-and-microphone-permissions-and-access-troubleshooting)
3. [Camera, microphone, and sound issues for interview studies](/interview-studies/interview-troubleshooting/camera-microphone-and-sound-issues-for-interviews)


# Improve your interview session quality

If your call quality is poor, it's probably due to a poor internet connection. This can cause dropped calls, delays, and low-quality audio and video.

Below, you'll find some quick tips to help improve your call quality when participating in an interview study.

* Improve your internet connection: Make sure you have a strong WiFi signal, or if possible, use a wired connection via ethernet cable.
* Close other tabs and applications: interview studies rely on having plenty of your computer's bandwidth to support the call. File sharing applications, streaming audio or video, downloading files, or even just having another browser open are all things that can eat up bandwidth.
* Plug in your laptop: If your device has low battery or is in power-saving mode, try plugging the laptop into a power source or switching it to maximum performance mode.

If call quality does not improve, consider ending the session and requesting to reschedule for a time when you have access to better internet quality.

***

*Last updated: 2026-05-21*\
\&#xNAN;*Source:* [*Improve your interview session quality*](/interview-studies/interview-troubleshooting/improve-your-interview-call-quality)


# Interview camera and microphone permissions and access troubleshooting

In order to participate in a desktop interview study, you'll need to grant Dscout permissions to your computer's camera and microphone.

### Granting camera and microphone permissions

The first time you access the Interview pre-test on a new computer, a dialogue box will automatically pop up asking you give app.dscout.com permission to use your **Microphone** and **Camera**. Click **Allow** for both. See below:

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/zM5cyeJs7Vp5t2eBxy2p/35669618149012" alt="" width="563">

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/J1Z7PwWjCRia15zFmHQa/35669621604500" alt="" width="563">

### Troubleshooting camera and microphone permissions

If you've clicked on the **Begin Setup** button, but the permissions prompts don't show up, try clicking on the **Lock** icon to the left of the address bar or the **Camera** icon on right side of the address bar. See below.

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/YrOzpGPKWmfSAIBVBWez/35669621604756" alt="" width="563">

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/bfL0aKyje33Q2aIAcS7e/35669618150676" alt="" width="563">

Clicking these options should either open up the permissions dialogue box or show that your camera or microphone has been blocked. In the event that clicking the **Lock** icon doesn't surface the permissions dialogue box, please restart your Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge web browser and try again.

### Managing Web Browser Permissions

As an extra precaution, we recommend taking the following steps to make sure permissions are not blocked for Dscout in your web browser:

1. Open a Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge web browser window.
2. At the top right next to your address bar, click on the **More** icon (the three dots icon).
3. Click **Settings** at the bottom of the dropdown menu.
4. Google Chrome users:
   1. Click **Privacy and security**
   2. Click **Site Settings**.
   3. Click **Camera or Microphone**.
   4. Check if app.dscout.com is blocked for Camera and Microphone. If it is, remove the existing exception by clicking on the **Delete** icon to the right of the site.
5. Microsoft Edge users:
   1. Click **Cookies and Site Permissions**
   2. Click **All Sites**
   3. Locate dscout.com and verify that camera and microphone permissions are set to **allow**.


# Camera microphone and sound issues for interview studies

If you’re testing your set-up and encountering issues with your camera, microphone, or sound, try some of the troubleshooting methods listed below.

### Camera issues

* **Quit Chrome or Edge and open a new browsing session.** When in doubt, refreshing your browser is always a good first step.
* **Use a different browser.** If you're attempting to complete your pre-test or join a session in Chrome, try it in Edge (or vice versa).
* **Make sure nothing is blocking your camera.** We’re all human. You might not see anything (or a black screen) in your camera test because something is literally blocking it.
* **Make sure you’ve selected the correct camera.** Newer models of laptops and computers come with internal cameras. If you’re using an external camera (i.e. one that you plug into your computer using a USB port), you may have to choose that camera instead of your computer’s internal camera.
* **Close out any other applications that may be using your camera.** There may be another program that is actively using your camera. Please make sure you close out any of those programs.
* **Test your camera on another Chrome- or Edge-based video application.** If you have access to a gmail account, you can test your camera on Google Hangouts, which is another video-conferencing tool.

***Pro tip:** Did none of these methods help? Maybe your issue is with permissions. Please make sure that you’ve given Dscout permission to access your camera. Read more about how to do that* [*here*](/interview-studies/interview-troubleshooting/interview-camera-and-microphone-permissions-and-access-troubleshooting)*.*

### Microphone issues

* **Quit Chrome or Edge and open a new browsing session.** When in doubt, refreshing your browser is always a good first step.
* **Use a different browser.** If you're attempting to complete your pre-test or join a session in Chrome, try it in Edge (or vice versa).
* **Are your headphones plugged in?** The Dscout app may sometimes not recognize your microphone if you have your headphones plugged into the auxiliary jack. Unplug the headphones and see if that lets Dscout recognize your microphone.
* **Disable Bluetooth.** Your computer may be connected to a Bluetooth device that's not nearby; disable Bluetooth to see if connecting via your computer's microphone helps.
* **Try saying something!** When you test your set-up, the microphone portion of your test will pass if your microphone picks up any sound. This test is very sensitive, so try saying something aloud and see if that fixes the issue.
* **Make sure you’ve selected the correct microphone.** Newer models of laptops and computers come with internal microphones. However, if you’re using an external microphone (such as one connected to a headset or one that you plug into the USB port), you may have to manually select that microphone during set-up.
* **Double check your computer’s microphone settings.** Maybe you haven’t enabled your microphone or there’s something wrong with your computer’s internal settings. Please double check them and try again.

***Pro tip:** Did none of these methods help? Maybe your issue is with permissions. Please make sure that you’ve given Dscout permission to access your microphone. Read more about how to do that* [*here*](/interview-studies/interview-troubleshooting/interview-camera-and-microphone-permissions-and-access-troubleshooting)*.*

### Sound issues

* **Quit Chrome or Edge and open a new browsing session.** When in doubt, refreshing your browser is always a good first step.
* **Test your audio in the pre-test.** To test your sound, simply click on the blue button that says TEST. You should hear a little chime coming from your computer’s speakers.
* **Make sure you’ve selected the correct speakers.** Newer computer and laptop models may come with internal speakers. However, if you’re using external speakers, please make sure you’ve selected those from the dropdown menu. You can also unplug and replug your external speakers if necessary.
* **Are your headphones plugged in?** Try unplugging your headphones to see if you’re able to hear your moderator(s) better.
* **Disable Bluetooth.** Your computer may be connected to a Bluetooth device that's not nearby; disable Bluetooth to see if connecting via your computer's speakers helps.
* **Check your computer’s volume settings.** Maybe your volume is not turned up loud enough for you to hear.

***

*Last updated: 2025-04-02*\
\&#xNAN;*Source:* [*Camera, microphone, and sound issues for interviews missions*](/interview-studies/interview-troubleshooting/camera-microphone-and-sound-issues-for-interviews)


# Payment basics

Learn how Dscout rewards work from study close to payout.

Use this section to understand timing, currencies, external payments, and what to expect when you get paid.

### Explore this section

* [When to expect your reward](/getting-paid/payment-basics/when-to-expect-your-reward) — learn the typical payment timeline after a study closes.
* [Taxes and Dscout rewards](/getting-paid/payment-basics/taxes-and-dscout-rewards) — understand how PayPal and tax reporting work.
* [Receiving external payments](/getting-paid/payment-basics/receiving-external-payments) — know what happens when Dscout is not handling the payout.
* [Receiving your reward in a different currency](/getting-paid/payment-basics/receiving-your-reward-in-a-different-currency) — see how currency conversion works in PayPal.
* [Receiving your reward](/getting-paid/payment-basics/receiving-your-reward) — get the full overview of reward delivery and payment flow.

### Start with these

If you’re waiting on a payout, read these first:

1. [Receiving your reward](/getting-paid/payment-basics/receiving-your-reward)
2. [When to expect your reward](/getting-paid/payment-basics/when-to-expect-your-reward)
3. [Receiving your reward in a different currency](/getting-paid/payment-basics/receiving-your-reward-in-a-different-currency)


# When to expect your reward

Typically, so long as you've followed all of the study instructions by the communicated deadlines and provided honest and thoughtful responses, **you can expect to see your reward within 10 business days of the day your study closes.** You can refer to the "study close" date by navigating to your ["Closed" studies tab](/diary-studies/diary-troubleshooting/accessing-closed-studies).

We’ll message you in the Dscout mobile app (you’ll receive this message via email, too) to let you know the **exact date** you can expect your reward as soon as the study leader approves your entries and gives us the green light.

This message will look like following:

![R1.png](https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/b0nokmZ2GLHHG0BDkzGh/35730680059028)

We try our best here at Dscout to pay you as quickly as possible for your hard work, but the review process and closing a project can sometimes take longer than expected. Study leaders might be finishing up some last-minute tasks before submitting the project for payment. Rest assured, however, that we'll let you know the exact date you can expect your hard-earned reward as soon as we can!

If you don’t receive your payment by **end of day (5pm, Central Time)** on the specified pay date, please check out our [troubleshooting section](/getting-paid/troubleshooting-a-failed-study-payout) or feel free to reach out to at <payments@dscout.com>.


# Taxes and Dscout rewards

Since Dscout pays you for your participation and entries in studies, you're considered by the Internal Revenue Service as an independent contractor. If we paid you in the form of a check or cash, we would be required to send you a **1099-MISC tax form** if you've made more than $600 in a given fiscal year.

However, since we use PayPal to send rewards, we are not required to send out any 1099-MISC forms. Instead, PayPal, which acts as our third-party electronic service, is required to send you a **1099-K tax form** if you've met both of the following criteria for calendar years after 2021:

* You've made more than $600 in PayPal transactions from any vendor (including Dscout) in one fiscal year

If you meet these criteria, PayPal will send you a 1099-K tax form to your mailing address as well as making it available to download electronically from your account (learn how to do that [here](https://www.paypal.com/us/smarthelp/article/how-do-i-find-my-tax-form-1099-k-in-my-paypal-account-faq919?app=searchAutoComplete)).

In regards to reporting the total money you earned from Dscout in a year, you can simply search your PayPal activity for the year in question and sum any transactions from Dscout to report as additional income when filing your taxes.


# Receiving external payments

In some cases, although a project was run on Dscout, we may not be handling the reward. Most frequently this occurs if you were recruited by an external agency or recruiter.

To learn more about your projects payment timeline and expectations, we recommend reaching out to the person who originally invited you to the study via email for clarification.


# Receiving your reward in a different currency

As an American company, our studies are paid out in the **United States Dollar (USD)**. That means that when we send the payment to you via PayPal, your reward will be converted into the currency you have set as your PayPal default.

However, rewards for studies can sometimes be listed under different currencies. It all depends on the study. If you don't remember the advertised reward for a particular study, check out the study card to figure it out. If the reward is listed in a different currency, it will be reflected on the study card, as advertised below.

![RR1.png](https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/UG75peK5ASYU67ZEzJPS/35730600750228)


# Receiving your reward

We send all rewards via [PayPal](http://www.paypal.com/), which is an American company that supports online money transfers. At this time, there is no alternative for receiving rewards from Dscout, so you'll need a PayPal account in order to receive your reward.

## Rewards and PayPal

As soon as you receive your reward in PayPal, you’ll be able to withdraw your funds in a number of different ways, including:

* Bank transfer (learn how to connect a bank account to your PayPal account [here](/getting-paid/getting-paid-via-paypal/connecting-a-bank-account-to-your-paypal).)
* Using a PayPal debit Mastercard
* Receiving a check

Read more about how to retrieve your Dscout rewards from your PayPal account [here](/getting-paid/getting-paid-via-paypal/withdrawing-your-funds-from-paypal).

## Timeline

Payments should be received within 10 business days of your study closing out. After you finish your study, your study leader will review your entries. Once they approve your entries, they'll let our payments team know to begin the payment process, at which point, we’ll message you in the Dscout mobile app (you’ll receive this message via email, too!). This message will let you know the *exact date* you can expect your reward! Read more about payment messaging and timelines [here](/getting-paid/payment-basics/when-to-expect-your-reward).

If you haven't heard from our payments team and you were invited to your study by an external recruiter, we may not be handling payments for this particular project. Read more [here](/getting-paid/payment-basics/receiving-external-payments).

**Don’t have a PayPal account?** Learn how to create one [here](/getting-paid/getting-paid-via-paypal/how-to-create-a-paypal-account).

**Is your PayPal email address different from your Dscout email address?** You can add your Dscout email address as an alias to your main PayPal account. Learn how to do that [here](/getting-paid/getting-paid-via-paypal/adding-an-alias-to-your-paypal).


# Getting paid via PayPal

Set up PayPal so you can receive and withdraw your Dscout rewards.

Use this section to create an account, confirm your email, add aliases, and move money to your bank.

### Explore this section

* [Adding an alias to your PayPal](/getting-paid/getting-paid-via-paypal/adding-an-alias-to-your-paypal) — receive payments sent to a different email address.
* [Confirming your email address with PayPal](/getting-paid/getting-paid-via-paypal/confirming-your-email-address-with-paypal) — fix payment issues caused by an unconfirmed email.
* [Withdrawing your funds from PayPal](/getting-paid/getting-paid-via-paypal/withdrawing-your-funds-from-paypal) — move your money to a bank, card, or check.
* [How to create a PayPal account](/getting-paid/getting-paid-via-paypal/how-to-create-a-paypal-account) — create a PayPal account from scratch.
* [Connecting a bank account to your PayPal](/getting-paid/getting-paid-via-paypal/connecting-a-bank-account-to-your-paypal) — link your bank for easier withdrawals.
* [How to add your PayPal email address to your Dscout account](/getting-paid/getting-paid-via-paypal/how-to-add-your-paypal-email-address-to-your-dscout-account) — make sure Dscout sends rewards to the right PayPal address.

### Start with these

If you need to set up payments, read these first:

1. [How to create a PayPal account](/getting-paid/getting-paid-via-paypal/how-to-create-a-paypal-account)
2. [Confirming your email address with PayPal](/getting-paid/getting-paid-via-paypal/confirming-your-email-address-with-paypal)
3. [How to add your PayPal email address to your Dscout account](/getting-paid/getting-paid-via-paypal/how-to-add-your-paypal-email-address-to-your-dscout-account)


# Adding an alias to your PayPal

If you've received a payment sent to an email that doesn't match your PayPal email address, no problem! All you’ll need to do is add your Dscout email address as an alias in your PayPal account. To do that, follow the steps below:

1. Log in to your **PayPal** account.
2. Click the **Gear** **icon** next to the logout button on the top-right corner of your screen.
3. Locate the **Email section** on your **Account** page.
4. The **Plus (+) icon** on the top-right corner of the box will allow you to add the email address you use for Dscout as an alias.
5. Check your alias email inbox for a confirmation email from **PayPal** titled **Confirm your email address**.
6. Open the email and click on the **Confirm my Email Address button**.
7. Enter your password for your primary account to confirm your alias email address.

Any payments sent to your additional email addresses will appear in your primary PayPal account. Hooray!

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/cClHUQDoLSX02lE2Eeqq/35730859989268" alt="" width="563">


# Confirming your email address with PayPal

If you have a PayPal account, but haven't confirmed your email address associated with the account, you may receive an error when we try to pay you. To fix this problem, follow these steps:

1. Log into your PayPal account.
2. Click on the **Gear icon** on the top-right corner of your screen to access your account settings.
3. Locate the **Email** section.
4. Click on the **Confirm button** next to your primary email. PayPal will send you a confirmation email.
5. You’ll receive an email with the subject **Confirm your Email address** from PayPal.
6. Open the email and click on the **Confirm My Email Address button**.
7. **Enter your password** to finish confirming your email.

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/h7LtnxHxEX8RcFft4JDY/35730882319764" alt="" width="563">


# Withdrawing your funds from PayPal

After you receive your reward in PayPal, you can withdraw your funds in a number of ways.

{% hint style="info" %}
**Note:** Dscout cannot pay you directly using these methods. We send your payment to PayPal first. Then you can use one of these methods to receive your reward.
{% endhint %}

## Bank transfer

You can transfer the rewards you made from Dscout studies directly into your bank account, which is by far the easiest and most common way to retrieve your funds. To transfer your funds to a bank account, follow the steps below:

1. Log into your PayPal account.
2. On your **Summary** page, click the **Transfer Money button** right under your PayPal balance.
3. Click on **Transfer to your bank**.
4. Choose the **Bank account** you wish to transfer to and click **Next**.
5. Choose the amount you wish to transfer and click **Next.**
6. Review your transfer and click the blue **Transfer Now** button to finalize the transfer.

PayPal securely transfers the amount from your PayPal balance into your selected bank account at no extra cost to you.

**Pro tip**: The minimum you can withdraw from your account is $1.00 USD. Estimated arrival time for bank transfers is 1 business day.

## Eligible debit & prepaid cards

You can also withdraw your funds from PayPal using an eligible debit or prepaid card. This is the fastest way to withdraw your money from your PayPal account. To transfer your funds to a bank account, follow the steps below:

1. Log into your PayPal account.
2. On your **Summary** page, click the **Transfer Money button** right under your PayPal balance.
3. Click on **Transfer to your bank**.
4. Choose the debit or prepaid card you wish to transfer with and click **Next**.
5. Choose the amount you wish to transfer and click **Next**.
6. Review your transfer and click the blue **Transfer Now** button to finalize the transfer.

**Pro tip**: There is a small fee for this service (1% fee or $10.00 maximum). However, estimated arrival time for instant card transfers is roughly 30 minutes.

## Check

You can also withdraw your money from PayPal in the form of a check. To do so, follow these steps:

1. Log into your PayPal account.
2. On your **Summary** page, click the **Transfer Money button** right under your PayPal balance.
3. Click on **Transfer to your bank**.
4. Click on the **Request a check by mail instead** **button** on the bottom of the page.
5. Enter the amount you wish to withdraw and the mailing address that PayPal should send the check to and click **Continue**.
6. Review your request and click **Submit** to finalize the transaction.

**Pro tip**: Requesting your funds by check will be the slowest way to receive your reward from PayPal.


# How to create a PayPal account

If you’ve never worked with [PayPal](http://www.paypal.com/) before, don’t sweat it! Creating a PayPal account is as simple as creating a Dscout account. Check out the steps or watch the walkthrough below.

{% hint style="info" %}
**Note:** PayPal has different age restrictions depending on your location. To confirm whether you can create an account, go to [this page](https://www.paypal.com/us/webapps/mpp/ua/legalhub-full), enter your country, and read the first few lines of the PayPal Account User Agreement.
{% endhint %}

1. Navigate to [www.paypal.com](http://www.paypal.com/).
2. Click on **Sign Up** on the top right corner of your screen.
3. Choose **Personal Account** and click **Next.**
4. Choose your **country of origin.** In the example below, we switched our country from the US to the United Kingdom.
5. Enter your name, email address, and password and click **Next**.
6. Fill out your profile and click **Agree and Create Account**.
7. **Confirm your email address**. After you're done creating your account, double check your email inbox for an email from PayPal; open it to confirm your email address. This step is required in order to receive payments successfully. Read more [here](/getting-paid/getting-paid-via-paypal/confirming-your-email-address-with-paypal).

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/ysWnwiwXvRzXtuMJ13CM/35730776423572" alt="" width="563">


# Connecting a bank account to your PayPal

After you receive your reward, it'll be available to you in your PayPal account. If you want to transfer it to your bank account, however, you'll have to add your bank to your PayPal account. To do so, follow these steps:

1. Log into your PayPal account.
2. Click on the **L\*\*\*\*ink a card or bank button** on the bottom-right corner of your screen.
3. Choose between **Link a debit or credit card** and **Link a bank account**. For the purposes of this tutorial, choose **Link a bank account**.
4. Choose your bank.
5. Choose to enter your account number manually or link your bank directly by logging in with your bank's username and password.

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/MvzRg622G2GgZ6Xsj45E/35730787321492" alt="" width="563">


# How to add your PayPal email address to your Dscout account

If the email address you use for Dscout is different from your PayPal email address, you can easily add your Dscout email address as an alias on your PayPal account (read more here) or you can add your PayPal email address in your Dscout profile. Read more below.

**Pro tip**: Please double check the spelling of your PayPal email address before saving!

{% hint style="info" %}
**Note:** Your PayPal email must be different from your Dscout account email. If you enter the same email in both fields, you'll see an error and won't be able to save.
{% endhint %}

## Adding your PayPal email address on Android

To add your PayPal email address in your Dscout profile on an Android device, follow the directions below:

1. Tap on the **Triple Horizontal Lines icon ☰** on the top-top left corner of your screen to access your side menu.
2. Tap the **View Profile button** beneath your profile picture on your side menu.
3. Tap on the **Pencil icon** on the top right corner of your screen. This will allow you to edit your profile.
4. Add your PayPal email address in the field **PayPal Email** next to the **$ icon**.
5. Tap the **Checkmark icon** on the top-right corner of your screen. This will save your information and all payments will be sent to your PayPal email address as opposed to the email address you use for Dscout.

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/rg5MSCIQKscpAKetOzzN/35730750744340" alt="" width="563">

## Adding your PayPal email address on iOS

To add your PayPal email address in your Dscout profile on an iOS device, follow the directions below:

1. Tap on the **Profile icon** on the bottom-right corner of your screen’s navigation bar.
2. Tap on the **Edit button** on the top-right corner of your screen.
3. Add your PayPal email address in the field **PayPal Email Address**.
4. Tap the **Save button** on the top-right corner of your screen. Once updated, all future payments will be sent to your PayPal email address as opposed to the email address you use for Dscout.

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/gw4ZNSPCtjX6XWnC8XUx/35730750746132" alt="" width="563">

## Adding your PayPal email address on the web

To add your PayPal email address in your Dscout profile on the web, follow the directions below:

1. Login to your Dscout account on the web at <https://app.dscout.com/scouts/sign_in>
2. Click on the **Profile photo** in the top-right corner of your screen’s navigation bar.
3. Click on the **Profile button** in the dropdown list in the top-right corner of your screen.
4. Add your PayPal email address in the field **PayPal Email Address** in the **Extended Profile** section.
5. Click the **Save button** in the PayPal Email Address modal. Once updated, all future payments will be sent to your PayPal email address as opposed to the email address you use for Dscout.

   <img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/Vua9NcdyVMxVNuNUGeCK/35730724856596" alt="" width="563">

   &#x20;

   <img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/g2aivtzTJ1Fkhx16jmV0/35730724858388" alt="" width="563">


# Frequently asked questions

Quick answers to common payment questions.

<details>

<summary>Okay seriously, what's the catch?</summary>

There's no catch.

If you're invited to a study, you're eligible to be paid.

Follow the study directions and complete every required activity on time.

The project team reviews your entries before payment starts.

Once approved, we message you with the exact reward date.

When we send the reward, PayPal emails you.

Dscout also sends a push notification.

</details>

<details>

<summary>Do I get paid for applications?</summary>

Applications to studies are unpaid.

Applications help determine whether you're a good fit for a study.

Think of them like an audition.

We do show the reward amount before you start.

You can find it on the study card and study details page.

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/JcjoOrZvbqmNK2Rv89nX/35730942959636" alt="Mission reward example" width="563">

**Pro tip:** Read the study overview before you apply.

It helps you decide whether the study is a fit.

If it is not, tap **Not Interested**.

You can also review [Best practices for applying to studies](/getting-started/dscout-overview/best-practices-for-applying-to-studies).

</details>

<details>

<summary>How much do studies pay?</summary>

Most studies offer a cash reward.

You receive it when you meet the requirements and finish all activities.

Most payouts range from `$25` to `$150`.

Some studies pay more.

Some pay less.

The final amount depends on the study's time and effort.

To check a study's reward in the app:

1. Open the **Studies** tab.
2. Find the study.
3. Check the **Reward amount** on the study card.
4. If needed, open the study and read the **Study overview**.

If you do not see a reward total, the study may use a different payment setup.

See [Receiving external payments](/getting-paid/payment-basics/receiving-external-payments).

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/gWrqxfLTJt0JbcJ2CVJz/35730881153044" alt="Mission reward in app" width="563">

</details>


# Troubleshooting a failed study payout

If you receive an email from Dscout with the subject **Study payout failed**, it means that we tried paying you, but something went wrong and the payment didn’t go through properly. Here are all the possible reasons why and how to address them:

**Your PayPal account is locked or inactive.**

Log in to PayPal to reactivate your account or contact PayPal directly. Once the issue is resolved, we can resend the reward.

**The email address we sent the reward to isn’t registered with PayPal.**

Create a PayPal account with the email address your reward was sent to. Add your email address to your main PayPal account as an alias. Learn more [here](/getting-paid/getting-paid-via-paypal/adding-an-alias-to-your-paypal).

**The email address we sent the reward to exists, but the email isn’t confirmed with PayPal.**

Confirm your email address with PayPal. Learn more [here](/getting-paid/getting-paid-via-paypal/confirming-your-email-address-with-paypal).

**The reward is in a different currency than your default currency.**

Log in to your PayPal account and accept the money in your default currency.

If none of these help resolve the issue, reach out to us [here](https://help.dscout.com/hc/en-us/requests/new) and we'll be happy to investigate for you!


# Why aren't my entries and media files uploading?

There could be a number of reasons why your entries or media files aren’t uploading properly. The factors that affect the success of your upload can range from the size of your attached media file to the strength of your internet connection.

{% hint style="info" %}
**Working on a computer?** This article covers uploads from the Dscout mobile app. If you were completing a desktop activity of a diary study in your browser, see [Upload issues and troubleshooting steps for desktop Diary activities](/diary-studies/diary-troubleshooting/upload-issues-and-troubleshooting-steps-for-desktop-diary-activities) instead—uploads work differently there.
{% endhint %}

For successful uploads, we recommend that you do the following:

* **Make sure your app is up to date.** Check the App Store or Google Play Store periodically for updates to the Dscout mobile app to make sure you’re on the latest version.
* **Establish and participate while on a strong internet connection.** Try to connect to trusted wifi networks or use your own mobile device’s data when uploading. Firewall and poor connections are often the cause of failed uploads.
* **Don’t close out of the Dscout mobile app.** The Dscout mobile app needs to be operating in your phone’s background for the upload to be successful.


# Troubleshooting firewall issues

If sections of your [Twilio Network Test](https://networktest.twilio.com/) failed, the reason could be your system’s firewall. Your firewall should allow outgoing UDP to connect to your internet from Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge and allow return traffic in response.

### Test on a different environment

If you’re not passing your [Twilio Network Test](https://networktest.twilio.com/) or having connectivity issues, you might be on a bad network. Try switching over to a more secure connection or use a different computer and try again!

**Pro tip:** Are you using a company-issued or school computer? Such computers may have an extra layer of security installed and might be blocking your ability to establish a strong connection for your interview session. We recommend using your personal computer for your upcoming interview session.

### Temporarily disable your firewall

If you’re using an antivirus or firewall software, please ensure that Chrome or Edge and Dscout are trusted or allowed by these programs.

Or you could temporarily disable your antivirus or firewall to see if this resolves the issue.You can simply disable your firewall and re-run the Twilio Network Test to see if your tests pass this time around.


# Upload issues troubleshooting steps for Dscout mobile app

If your video or photo didn’t upload even though your entry appears to have uploaded properly, you'll receive an email from Dscout notifying you of the upload issue with instructions on how to fix the issue. If you don't respond to that email, your study leader might reach out to you via our in-app messaging feature or they might comment on the entry with the missing media to notify you about it.

Read more below on for steps on addressing a media upload issue as well as mitigating these issues in the future.

Encountering upload issues in a desktop study? Check out [this article](/diary-studies/diary-troubleshooting/upload-issues-and-troubleshooting-steps-for-desktop-diary-activities)!

## Fixing a media upload issue

#### Reply via email

When you receive an email from Dscout alerting you of an upload issue, the solution is easy: simply reply directly to the email and attach the media described in the email. Once you send your media, our Support team will attach it to your impacted entry on your behalf. No need to submit additional entries! Emails related to upload issues will always begin with the following subject line: "Action Needed: Media Upload Incomplete"

**Note for iPhone users:** if an upload is in progress or has failed, you will see an "active uploads" at the bottom of your Profile tab. If your upload has failed, you will see a "retry" button. Try this out before sending our Support team your missing media!

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/kvjmDGxnGeSI2WY8Gch7/35730994555540" alt="" width="563">

#### Working with your study leader

If your study leader reaches out to you (via in-app messaging or commenting on the entry in question) to notify you that your media didn’t upload even though your entry was successfully submitted, you can also email the missing media to our team. Follow these steps to do so:

1. Identify the entry in question. You may have, for example, successfully submitted **Entry 1** in **Activity 1**, but with a failed video.
2. Send an email to our Support team with your missing media file attached (you’ll be able to find this file in your phone’s media storage). You can contact our team by email: <help@dscout.com>.
3. In the body of your email, please make sure to mention the study name, activity name, and entry number.

{% hint style="info" %}
**Note:** If your media is larger than 25MB, you may not be able to attach it to an email. In that case, upload it to Google Drive, Dropbox, or another file-sharing service and send the link to <help@dscout.com>. Make sure anyone with the link can view your video.
{% endhint %}

## Preventing upload issues

To mitigate issues with your media uploads in the future, we recommend these best practices:

* **Make sure your app is up to date.** Check the App Store or Google Play Store periodically for updates to the Dscout mobile app to make sure you’re on the latest version.
* **Establish and participate while on a strong internet connection.** Try to connect to trusted wifi networks or use your own mobile device’s data when uploading. Firewall and poor connections are often the cause of failed uploads.
* **Don’t close out of the Dscout mobile app.** The Dscout mobile app needs to be operating in your phone’s background for the upload to be successful.


# Account setup

Set up and manage the basics of your Scout account.

Use this section to create your account, sign in, verify your identity, update your profile, and resolve login issues.

### Explore this section

* [ID verification](/account-settings/account-setup/id-verification) — understand when identity verification is required and how it works.
* [Signing into Dscout with a magic link](/account-settings/account-setup/signing-into-dscout-with-a-magic-link) — sign in without a password.
* [Create a Scout account](/account-settings/account-setup/create-a-scout-account) — create your account on iPhone or Android.
* [Dscout Referral Program (UK)](/account-settings/account-setup/dscout-referral-program-uk) — learn how UK referral rewards work.
* [Password Expiration (Scouts)](/account-settings/account-setup/password-expiration-scouts) — understand forced password resets and account protection.
* [Updating your Scout profile](/account-settings/account-setup/updating-your-scout-profile) — edit your profile details on mobile or web.
* [Password and login issues](/account-settings/account-setup/password-and-login-issues) — reset your password and troubleshoot sign-in problems.
* [Deleting your account](/account-settings/account-setup/deleting-your-account) — request account deletion and understand what it means.

### Start with these

If you're setting up your account for the first time, read these first:

1. [Create a Scout account](/account-settings/account-setup/create-a-scout-account)
2. [Signing into Dscout with a magic link](/account-settings/account-setup/signing-into-dscout-with-a-magic-link)
3. [Updating your Scout profile](/account-settings/account-setup/updating-your-scout-profile)


# ID verification

{% hint style="info" %}
**Note:** Do not send identification to the Dscout Support team. You’ll be prompted to complete identity verification directly in the Dscout app when you qualify for your first study.
{% endhint %}

To keep as many studies open to our Scouts as possible, Dscout has partnered with a trusted third-party partner called Veriff to process a one-time identity verification. This ID verification is required upon qualification for your first screener, usability test, media survey, or AI moderated study. **Start to finish, the process only takes a couple of minutes. And once it’s complete, you won’t have to worry about it again.**

Still, we know that keeping your information secure is incredibly important and that you may have some questions. So, we’ve put together the sections below to offer some answers.

### Why do I need to do this?

Fair question! You’ve created your account. You’ve entered your details. Isn’t that enough? Well, in a lot of cases, yes. But the work you do on Dscout is special—you put a lot of time into your studies, you give a lot of thought to your responses. And verifying your identity helps us ensure you get the credit for that.

By verifying your identity, we can easily spot Scouts who aren’t as well-intentioned as you, or who might try to create multiple accounts. Not only can this damage the value and trust our researchers place in our Scouts, but it can also affect the number of openings available to you—both immediately and long-term.

### How many times do I have to do this?

**Verification is a one-time thing!** Once your account is successfully verified, you won’t have to do it again. Simple as that.

### What is Veriff?

[Veriff](https://www.veriff.com/) is our trusted third-party partner who processes all of our Scout identity verification. However, we’re not the only ones who recruit Veriff for this same task: Companies like **Amazon**, **Visa**, **Instacart**, and more all use their services—chances are good you may have even verified your identity using Veriff before!

### What data does Veriff need?

Once you begin the verification process, Veriff will tell you exactly what they need (most often some form of government-issued ID like a driver’s license or passport). They also typically ask that you submit a quick selfie or video. With these, Veriff is able to:

* Confirm that the name on your ID matches the name on your Dscout account.
* Confirm that the photo on your ID matches the person in your selfie or video.

And don’t worry—**once the process is complete, they won’t do anything else with your data.** They simply tell us that you’re you, and that’s that. Your account is verified, and you won’t have to do this again.

In case you’re curious, here’s all of the information above, straight from our Legal team:

*Certain studies will require ID verification in order for the study to be processed and paid. Dscout engages a third-party service provider, Veriff, for ID verification. As part of the ID verification process, you will take a picture of your government-issued ID (such as a driver’s license) and you will provide a live selfie or short video stream during the verification session. Veriff extracts your photo from your government issued ID and compares it to the facial biometric data from the live feed. Your facial biometric data is used to confirm that you are the legitimate holder of your government-issued ID and to analyze the selfie or short video stream to confirm it is a live feed and not a spoofing attempt.*

*If your verification is unsuccessful and you believe this was an error, please contact* [*support@dscout.com*](mailto:support@dscout.com)*.*

{% hint style="info" %}
**Note:** This is a one-time step. Once you’re verified, we won’t ask you to verify again.
{% endhint %}


# Signing into Dscout with a magic link

Dscout supports a passwordless sign in experience for all research participants—regardless of whether you're logging in via the mobile app or via [web](https://app.dscout.com/scouts/sign_in)—using a feature called **magic links**.

When you request a sign in magic link, you'll be sent a link to your email inbox; simply tap the link, and you will automatically be brought to Dscout and signed in. No additional steps necessary!

{% hint style="info" %}
**Note:** You can only sign in with a magic link if you previously signed up for an account or tapped to sign up for a study from a link sent by your project leader.
{% endhint %}

**Here are step-by-step instructions for signing into the app using a magic link:**

1\. Open the Dscout app, or navigate to <https://app.dscout.com/scouts/sign_in> to log into Dscout via web.

2\. Below where it says "Sign in," enter the email address you previously signed up for Dscout or a study with, then tap "Send magic link."

{% hint style="info" %}
**Note:** You won’t receive a magic link unless you enter the same email address you used to sign up. If your link does not arrive, make sure you entered the correct address.
{% endhint %}

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/t9Cr9BD2AnQun61Gwd9I/35734103429780" alt="" width="563">

&#x20;

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/v7KDxDwOaeaK8twvX0Tx/35734103430420" alt="" width="563">

3\. Locate the magic link in your email inbox. The subject line will be "\[Dscout] Sign into your Dscout account" and the sender will be <accounts@dscout.com>.

4\. Tap the "Log into Dscout" button in your email.

{% hint style="info" %}
**Note:** Magic links expire after 24 hours, or immediately after you request a new one. Only your most recent magic link works. If you try to use an expired link, we automatically email you a new one.
{% endhint %}

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/p12cWr5M5DykFZzrtn3R/35734103432212" alt="" width="563">

* If you've tapped the log in button on your **mobile device** and you **have the Dscout app installed**: you will automatically be brought to the Dscout app and be logged in.
* If you've tapped the log in button on your **mobile device** and **do not have the app installed**: you will be automatically logged in and routed to [app.dscout.com](https://app.dscout.com/scouts/home/missions) via a mobile web browser. Note that it is not possible to complete studies via a mobile web browser at this time.
* If you've tapped the log in button on a **computer:** you will be automatically logged in and routed to [app.dscout.com](https://app.dscout.com/scouts/home/missions) via a desktop web browser.


# Create a scout account

Dscout is the place where researchers and designers come to find people just like you who are ready and willing to share your opinions on topics you know best. Whether it’s sharing your experience buying stuff online or providing feedback on a new app design, your voice is the one that matters most around here. But to make sure it’s heard, you’ll first need to create an account.

{% hint style="info" %}
**Note:** To create a Dscout account, you must be 13 or older in the United States, or 16 or older in Europe. If you’re under 18, you must have permission from a parent or guardian regardless of location.
{% endhint %}

{% tabs %}
{% tab title="iOS" %}
If you’re using an iPhone, you can get yourself up and running using Dscout’s dedicated iOS app.

**Tip:** While you’ll be able to download and use the Dscout app on an iPad, we highly recommend you use an iPhone to have the best experience.

**To create a Dscout account using the iOS app:**

{% stepper %}
{% step %}
Download the [Dscout app](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/dscout/id395563123) from the Apple App Store and open it.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Tap the **Sign up** button.

<div align="left"><img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/cYcxM25IOD41Z0ivJXHF/35732418739860" alt="" width="375"></div>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Enter your **First name** and **Last name**. Then, tap **Continue**.

<div align="left"><img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/OXLErtXcPjjeN7QBWPcG/35732390624148" alt="" width="375"></div>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Enter your **Date of birth**. Then, tap **Continue**.

<div align="left"><img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/N9FL983ZxQLhaF4dcmM6/35732418742420" alt="" width="375"></div>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Select your **Country**. Then, provide the additional location information as requested and tap **Continue**.

<div align="left"><img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/BSMSLQ7EwDNuE21M0TD5/35732418743316" alt="" width="375"></div>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Enter your **Email**. Then, choose how you want to receive PayPal payments: select **Use this email for PayPal payments** to use the same email for both, or select **Use alternative email for PayPal payments** and enter a different **PayPal email**. Then, tap **Continue**.

{% hint style="info" %}
**Note:** If you choose to use an alternative email, it must be different from your sign-up email — entering the same email in both fields will show an error and you won't be able to continue.
{% endhint %}

<div align="left"><figure><img src="https://2127414252-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FWDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS%2Fuploads%2FqupiQ6phlIA8X0aZu8hD%2FIMG_2750.png?alt=media&amp;token=02020b75-9c12-43d9-95de-d69ddb6da30e" alt="" width="375"><figcaption></figcaption></figure></div>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Enter a **Password**. Your password must be between 12 and 32 characters, include one capital letter, and one special character (for example, ! @ # $ % ^ & \*).

<div align="left"><img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/RvaQA27ZZkzkdT2pwKtp/35732390626196" alt="" width="375"></div>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Tap **Create account**.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
After reading the Scout Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy, tap **I agree**.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

Now, you're officially a Dscout Scout! Next, you’ll land on the **Explore** tab of the Dscout app. This is where you’ll find screeners and studies to apply to. You'll also see a checklist containing other items that will help you make the most of Dscout. For more information, see Complete your account checklist.

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/psH9DLPLhDnBZSQTuhzw/49257065272468" alt="" width="375">

For more on navigating the app, see Navigating through the Scout mobile app. And if you want to learn more about how to customize your account, see Updating your Scout profile.
{% endtab %}

{% tab title="Android" %}
If you’re using an Android phone, you can get yourself up and running using Dscout’s dedicated Android app.

**To create a Dscout account using the Android app:**

{% stepper %}
{% step %}
Download the [Dscout Android app](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.vokal.dscout\&hl=en_US\&pli=1) and open it.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Tap **Get started**.

<div align="left"><img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/EtD5NCrS5i7BH9CLLTYo/35732418748180" alt="" width="375"></div>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Tap **Sign up**.

<div align="left"><img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/rGpr2OsLae519ZsgTn3L/35732418749716" alt="" width="375"></div>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Enter your **First name** and **Last name**. Then, tap **Next**.

<div align="left"><img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/c1ScRZEVApmlSRQoNv0q/35732390629140" alt="" width="375"></div>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Enter your **Birthday**. Then, tap **Next**.

<div align="left"><img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/tFPATSczycXH3MFhUkQV/35732390630036" alt="" width="375"></div>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Select your **Country**. Then, provide the additional location information as requested. Then, tap **Next**.

<div align="left"><img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/c3o1UHe9fNayne5rluy2/35732418752660" alt="" width="375"></div>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Enter your **Email**. Then, tap **Next**.

<div align="left"><img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/p4o2VUx9mQOUNRqglwY8/35732390632212" alt="" width="375"></div>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Enter a **Password**. Your password must be between 12 and 32 characters, include one capital letter, and one special character (for example, ! @ # $ % ^ & \*).

<div align="left"><img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/Wy2Ufz15OjX6YaaXq7x0/35732418754964" alt="" width="375"></div>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Tap **Create account**.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
After reading the Scout Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy, tap **I agree**.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

Now, you're officially a Dscout Scout! Next, you’ll land on the **Explore** tab of the Dscout app. This is where you’ll find screeners and studies to apply to. You'll also see a checklist containing other items that will help you make the most of Dscout. For more information, see Complete your account checklist.

For more on navigating the app, see Navigating through the Scout mobile app. And if you want to learn more about how to customize your account, see Updating your Scout profile.
{% endtab %}
{% endtabs %}


# Dscout referral program UK

This referral program is open to Scouts who have signed up for the Dscout platform and have agreed to Dscout’s [Scout Terms and Conditions](https://dscout.com/legal/scout-terms). This referral program cannot be combined with any other offers. We reserve the right to change, suspend or terminate this program at any time. By participating in this referral program, Scouts agree that they have read and understood this article.

{% hint style="info" %}
**Note:** This referral program is currently only available to Scouts in the UK.
{% endhint %}

### How does the referral bonus program work?

Share your link with a friend, colleague, or family member **living in the UK** who is interested in Dscout, and have them sign up using the link so we can track your rewards. Each time a person you’ve referred completes and gets paid for a study, you’ll receive a $5 bonus. You can earn up to $50 total.

### What if I invite someone outside the UK?

While we always appreciate more Scouts around the globe, this program is currently limited to UK-based Scouts only.

### Are there any special rules I should know about?

1. If you invite a friend, they must use/click on your referral link to download and join Dscout for you to be compensated when they earn. We want to thank you for helping grow our community, so please make sure your friend uses your link! We are unable to retroactively pair the folks you’ve referred to your account if they did not use your link to sign up for Dscout.
2. You will receive a referral bonus each time a person you’ve referred completes and gets paid for a study, up to $50 total across all of your referred friends. Any referral bonuses earned by your friends do not count towards your rewards.
3. Dishonest or misleading behavior will not be tolerated. Scouts are only allowed one account on Dscout, and must represent their location accurately. We reserve the right to disqualify any Scout if we suspect dishonest or misleading behavior.

### Is there a cap on how many people I can invite?

No! You can invite as many people as you’d like.

### Is there a cap on what I can earn?

Yes, $50 total. Regardless of how many people you refer—1 or 100!—your bonus earnings will be capped at $50. This means that if even one of your referrals is a great Scout, you may reach that cap in no time!

### Does earning when my friend gets paid take away from their earnings?

Absolutely not! Your friend will get paid in full for all of their studies. We are giving you a thank you bonus for bringing them to our platform.

### When my friend gets paid, do I get paid immediately?

Other than processing time, yes!


# Password expiration scouts

The purpose of this document is to notify you of the preventative measures we're taking to protect your information. Reusing the same passwords and usernames on multiple websites can put your accounts at risk. Bad actors can steal lists of credentials and try them (at high speed, using automated bots) at thousands of sites on the Web, hoping to find opportunities to log in and exploit your information.

What you can do

Follow best practices for password management; make sure you don’t re-use passwords on multiple sites, and update passwords every few months. If possible, use a password manager for an added layer of security.

What Dscout is doing

Dscout takes the protection of your information very seriously. As an extra precaution, at the end of February *we’re expiring all passwords.* All scouts will be logged out of their accounts. In order to log back in, you will need to reset your password by using the “forgot password” option on the Dscout login page.

Please email our Support team ([help@dscout.com](mailto:support@dscout.com)) if you encounter any issues updating your password or accessing your account—our team will be happy to assist.


# Updating your scout profile

When you first apply to a study or begin a study that requires a completed profile, you’ll be prompted to first fill out your profile. The following fields are mandatory: profile picture, first name, last name, birthday, email, phone number, location, and ethnicity (U.S. scouts only).

We understand that identity isn't static, so you'll have the ability to self-identify your gender, provide your pronouns (including a "tap to type" option if you don't see yours included), and select multiple ethnicities (if applicable). You'll also have the option to edit these fields whenever you'd like.

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/K3xQADhOscfiOot9Igvb/35732278662804" alt="" width="563">

&#x20;

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/FzykRTSrorsgzhebroAd/35732335903380" alt="" width="563">

&#x20;

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/pRu04iIsxFDBf8WbSVOI/35732335904404" alt="" width="563">

### Updating your profile on Android mobile devices

1. Tap on the **Triple Horizontal Lines icon ☰** on the top-top left corner of your screen.
2. Tap **View Profile** and tap on the **Pencil icon** on the top right corner of your screen. This will allow you to edit your profile.
3. Edit existing fields or answer the additional questions related to your profile here.
4. To update your profile picture, simply tap on the **Camera icon** on the bottom-right corner of your profile picture to take a new picture or select one from your photo gallery
5. When you’re finished, click on the **Checkmark icon** on the top-right corner of your screen.

### Updating your profile on iOS mobile devices

1. Tap on the **Profile icon** in the bottom right corner when you’re signed into the Dscout mobile app.
2. Tap on any of the fields to add or edit your information; tap **save** when you're done with each section.
3. To update your profile picture, simply tap on your **e\*\*\*\*xisting profile picture** to access your camera or photo gallery.

### Updating your profile on the web

1. Log into your account at <https://app.dscout.com/scouts/sign_in>.
2. Once logged in, click on your **Profile photo** in the top-right corner of your screen’s navigation bar (if you don’t have a profile picture uploaded, you’ll see your initials in a blue circle instead).
3. Click on the **Profile button** in the dropdown list in the top-right corner of your screen.
4. Once on the Profile page, navigate to the field(s) you want to update.
5. Click the **Add icon** (for empty fields) or **Edit icon** (for fields that already have a value) on the desired profile field. Once you make changes, click the **“Save” button** in the modal.


# Password and login issues

Read more below to learn more about updating your password and troubleshooting log in issues

### Updating your password

If you’re **logged into** your account on the Dscout **mobile app**, updating your password is simple. All you have to do is follow these steps:

1. Access your profile by tapping on the **Profile section** of your app.
2. Tap on **Update Password**.
3. Update your password here. Please note that your new password must be between 12-32 characters long and include at least one letter, one number, and one special character.

If you’re **logged into** your account on the **web**, follow these steps:

1. Click on your **Profile photo** in the top-right corner of your screen’s navigation bar.
2. Click on the **Change Password button** in the dropdown list in the top-right corner of your screen.
3. Update your password here. Please note that your new password must be between 12-32 characters long and include at least one letter, one number, and one special character.

### Forgot your password?

If you’re **not logged in** and have forgotten your password, follow these steps to reset your password:

1. Navigate to the **Sign In** screen of your app.
2. Tap on the **Forgot Password?** link and enter your email.
3. Hit **Submit** to send yourself a password reset link. It may take a few moments for the email to arrive in your email. Please make sure you also check your spam folders for an email from <participate@dscout.com> with the subject **\[Dscout] Reset password instructions**.
4. Once you’ve opened the email, tap on the **Change my password** button.
5. Update your password here and tap the **Change my password** button to save. Please note that your new password must be between 12-32 characters long and include at least one letter, one number, and one special character.

### Unlocking your account

If you’ve tried one too many times to log into your account unsuccessfully, we'll let you know if you have one more attempt before your account is locked. If we do lock your account, we'll send you an email with instructions on how to unlock it. To unlock your account, follow the steps below:

1. Search your inbox for an email from <participate@dscout.com> with the subject **\[Dscout] Unlock Instructions**.
2. Once you've found it and opened the email, click on the **Unlock my account** button.
3. As soon as you click on the **Unlock my account** button, you'll be brought back to the log-in screen and your account will be unlocked.
4. Reset your password by clicking on the **Forgot your password?** link (see instructions above).

### I haven't received a password reset email

There are a few reasons you might not receive a password reset email. Try these troubleshooting steps to resolve the issue:

* **Double check the email you're sending a password reset to.** If you've mistyped the email address or gave us an email that isn't associated with a Dscout account, you won't receive an email.
* **Check your spam folder.** The email we sent may. have been caught by your spam filter!
* **Allow list** [**participate@dscout.com**](mailto:participate@dscout.com)**.** If you entered the correct email and the message isn't in your spam folder, you may need to allow list our Dscout email alias (<participate@dscout.com>). Some email clients refer to this as "whitelisting" or a "safe sender" you should be able to accomplish this via your email account settings.

### "Account already exists" error when signing up

If you get an error that says your email is already in use when signing up, it means you've either been invited to a study under that email already, or you've previously signed up for an account using that address.

**If you were just invited to a study,** use the "claim your spot" button in the email invitation you received to complete your account setup.

**If you haven't been invited to a study yet,** use the "forgot password" instructions listed above.


# Deleting your account

### How to delete your account

If you would like to delete your account, please send a message to us [here](mailto:help@dscout.com) with the email address you use for Dscout. Someone will get back to you to confirm your account's deletion.

### What deletion means

When we delete your account, we remove all profile information including your name, any email addresses associated with your account, your phone number, profile photo (if you have one), etc.

This information will no longer appear with any study entries or applications that you may have submitted using the Dscout mobile app. Study entries and applications may be retained in accordance with our [Scout Terms and Conditions](http://www.dscout.com/legal/scout-terms).


# App settings

Manage the permissions and notifications used by the Dscout app.

Use this section to control what the app can access and how it alerts you.

### Explore this section

* [Dscout Scout app permissions](/account-settings/app-settings/dscout-scout-app-permissions) — manage camera, microphone, storage, location, and notification access.
* [Enabling notifications](/account-settings/app-settings/enabling-notifications) — turn push notifications on and choose what you want to receive.

### Start with these

If the app is not behaving as expected, read these first:

1. [Dscout Scout app permissions](/account-settings/app-settings/dscout-scout-app-permissions)
2. [Enabling notifications](/account-settings/app-settings/enabling-notifications)


# Dscout Scout app permissions

When you create an account on Dscout and start applying to studies, Dscout will automatically ask for your permission to access the following things as you use the Dscout app:

* Camera
* Location
* Media storage
* Microphone
* Notifications

You can deny Dscout access to any of these permissions, but the majority of them are necessary when participating in Dscout opportunities. The mobile app will continue to request your permission depending on what task you’re trying to complete within the Dscout mobile app.

You can also manage your app permissions manually within your mobile device’s native **Settings** app.

### Managing app permissions on Android devices

The following steps are a generalized approach to managing Dscout permissions on your mobile device:

1. Tap on your mobile device’s native **Settings** app.
2. Find **Apps & Notifications** (please note\_:\_ the name of this section might not be the same for every Android device, but it should be similar).
3. Find the **Dscout mobile app** and tap on it.
4. You should be able to find **Permissions** and / or **Notifications**. Tap on it.
5. Tap **allow** or **toggle the button** for all the fields you want to give Dscout permission to. Check it out below.

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/IOhdfmz5IPUqZGSpwmqK/35732447208724" alt="" width="563">

### Managing app permissions on iOS devices

If you want to add or remove permissions for the Dscout app, you can do so by following these steps on your iPhone (or iPad tablet):

1. Click on your iPhone’s **Settings** app.
2. Scroll down until you reach the **Apps** section.
3. Find and tap on **Dscout**.
4. You can click on each individual permission and change permissions for Dscout (i.e., click on **Camera** and click on the button to enable or disable permissions.

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/EaP7eug39SCry2ZmVljG/35732447209876" alt="" width="563">


# Enabling notifications

When you first download the Dscout mobile app, your notifications should already be enabled. If you want to change your notification settings, however, you can do so by accessing your mobile device's native **Settings** app.

### Enabling push notifications on Android devices

Since not all Android devices are the same, the following steps are a generalized approach to managing Dscout in-app notifications on your mobile device:

1. Tap on your mobile device’s native **Settings** app.
2. Find **Apps & Notifications** (*please note*\_:\_ the name of this section might not be the same for every Android device, but it’ll be similar).
3. Find the **Dscout mobile app** and tap on it.
4. There should be a section called **Notifications** within the app settings. Once found, tap on it.
5. Tap allow for all the fields you want notifications for within the Dscout mobile app. Please note that the notification options will only be available for devices operating on Android 8 or above.

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/zZeUDDxrOiZzl4KrfP3W/35732467141908" alt="" width="563">

#### **Notification option definitions**

**Notification**

**Meaning**

General

Enabling notifications for **General** will send you a push notification every time a new study is available for you to apply to. In addition, it'll also send you a notification when a new activity is open and when you've been invited to a new study.

New Message

Enabling notifications for **New Message** will send you a notification every time your study leader sends you a message in the app.

Payments

Enabling notifications for **Payments** will send you a notification every time you receive a reward from Dscout.

Services

Enabling notifications for **Services** will surface notifications for our services that need to run in the background.

### Enabling push notifications on iOS devices

When you download the Dscout app, you'll be prompted to enable **Notifications** and **Location Services**. If you didn't enable notifications at this point, you may be prompted again when using the app, at which point you can click **Allow** to enable notifications. See the screen below.

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/Gq5kr1k6WLfWQ8I7cOQR/35732467142932" alt="" width="563">

You can also update push notification permissions by navigating to the **Profile** tab in your Dscout app:

1. Click on the **Profile** tab (bottom right corner of the app)
2. Scroll down until you reach **App Permissions**.
3. Use the toggles to update your notifications accordingly.


# Dscout XT

Dscout XT is an optional add-on program that utilizes your Dscout browser extension to help unlock access to additional paid opportunities and, in some cases, help you skip applications so you can earn rewards even faster.

Let’s say researchers need participants who frequently fly Southwest Airlines or shop on Etsy. That information isn’t readily accessible in your Dscout account by default—but it can be with Dscout XT.

{% hint style="info" %}
**Note:** Dscout XT requires the Dscout browser extension. It works best on Chrome and Microsoft Edge. You can also use it on other Chromium-based browsers, but some functionality may be missing.
{% endhint %}

## What do I get with Dscout XT?

With Dscout XT enabled, you unlock access to two new study types in Dscout:

* **Intercept studies:** Paid opportunities that appear as you browse the web. These studies are typically short and intended to better understand your user experience in the moment. For more information, see [Intercept studies FAQ](/account-settings/dscout-xt/intercept-studies-faq).

  <img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/2to8xNXnhUFZJmPcMiMl/46464276481812" alt="" width="563">
* **Pre-matched studies:** Additional single-session studies we’ve pre-matched you with based on your XT data. For example, if a researcher needs Etsy shoppers and you’re an Etsy shopper, we’ll pre-match you. (Without Dscout XT, you wouldn’t see this study at all.)

  <img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/Q7ND4Xb2jowZXp4HLmp4/46464276484500" alt="" width="563">

More opportunities means more dollars in your pocket.

## What data does Dscout XT collect?

By signing up for Dscout XT, you grant permission for the Dscout browser extension to collect the following data:

* URLs visited (including number of visits and the date/time of each visit).
* Search terms entered into your Chrome browser.
* Certain interactions on specific webpages (also called DOM events). For example, a study may be initiated if you click to open an AI chatbot.

{% hint style="info" %}
**Note:** Dscout automatically deletes data from sites we consider sensitive, private, or irrelevant to research on our platform. We also use advanced techniques to minimize collection of PII, such as names, phone numbers, and passwords.
{% endhint %}

To be extra clear on what’s collected, here’s how some standard data would look when collected as part of Dscout XT:

*Scout ID: 8762918991*

*Timezone: America/New York*

*URL: <https://www.bankrate.com/finance/credit-cards/best-credit-cards-young-adults/>*

*Visited At: 2024-05-31 21:25:42.805 Z*

Data is not collected retroactively, and you can opt out at any time. For more information, see [Data and privacy in Dscout XT](/account-settings/dscout-xt/data-and-privacy-in-dscout-xt).

## Join Dscout XT

You can join Dscout XT by navigating to your profile page either in the Dscout mobile app or using a computer.


# Intercept studies FAQ

Scouts who join Dscout XT unlock intercept studies, which are exclusive paid opportunities that appear as you naturally browse the web. Below are some frequently asked questions to help you better understand and participate in these studies:

## What are intercept studies?

**Intercept studies are paid opportunities that appear as you browse the web.**

When you land on a website with an intercept study, you’ll see a pop-up inviting you to participate:

<img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/WDOo5BT5iAW9nWsfYLgS/blobs/sCsnF7eeD4JDm2byxxOz/46463209106964" alt="" width="563">

These studies are typically short and intended to better understand your user experience in a given moment rather than after the fact or in a simulated test.

## How do I find intercept studies?

**Intercept studies find you!**

They appear as you browse on websites where researchers are looking to gather feedback. So, you won’t be able to go looking for intercept studies on your own, and you won’t find them in the Dscout app.

**Warning:** Because intercept studies are intended to capture authentic behavior and insights, Dscout employs various security and quality assurance measures to flag suspicious responses. In cases of fraudulent activity, Dscout XT access can (and will!) be revoked. Just be you and the opportunities will find you!

## Can I join intercept studies without Dscout XT?

**Nope.**

Intercept studies are exclusive opportunities available only to Scouts who enroll in Dscout XT. For more information, see [Dscout XT](/account-settings/dscout-xt).

## Can I snooze an intercept opportunity?

**Yes, but we don’t recommend it if you want to bring home that cash.**

When an intercept study appears, you have 30 seconds to join. If you’re not ready to join, you can snooze the opportunity or dismiss it entirely. However, snoozing an intercept study does not guarantee you’ll be able to participate later. Studies are only open for a limited amount of time, and they only require a limited number of participants.

{% hint style="info" %}
**Note:** If you do not make a selection within the 30-second join window, we automatically snooze the opportunity for you.
{% endhint %}

## If I see an intercept pop-up, am I guaranteed that reward?

**Unfortunately not (though it’s a good sign!).**

Some intercept studies include a one-question screener you must complete after you’ve been intercepted. If your answer doesn’t match what the researcher is looking for, you won’t be able to participate in the study (or earn that reward).

## How much do intercept studies pay?

**Every study is different!**

As with any Dscout study, rewards should be reflective of the amount of work that’s being asked of you. Because intercept studies are designed to be quick check-ins on your user experience, many rewards may be around $5. If a reward is higher, expect the study to take a little longer.

## How long do intercept studies take?

**Typically, 10 minutes or less.**

Because intercept studies are meant to get your feedback as you naturally browse the web, they tend to be shorter than other Dscout studies.

## How often will I see intercept studies?

**It depends on how you browse!**

Intercept studies are not an exact science—they’re the result of you being in the right place at the right time for us to catch you. That’s why we recommend joining Dscout XT as soon as possible so you never miss an opportunity.


# Data and privacy in Dscout XT

At Dscout, our goal is to connect the right voices with the right people. We want to help researchers improve experiences and products based on real user feedback. That is the core principle that guides what data we collect and how we use it.

To help illustrate this core principle, we’ve put together this guide to answer questions and provide transparency around how your data powers Dscout XT and what you can expect from us in terms of keeping that data safe.

## Is my data secure?

Let’s start with the most important question! **Yes, your data is secure.**

Dscout remains compliant with GDPR and CCPA regulations and maintains ISO 27001 and HITRUST certifications. While those may seem like random letters and numbers, they are industry standards meant to ensure your data is protected. And to keep us honest, we also undergo annual security audits.

## What data is collected?

We collect the following data when you’re enrolled in Dscout XT:

* URLs visited (including number of visits and the date/time of each visit).
* Search terms entered into your Chrome browser.
* Certain interactions on specific webpages (also called DOM events). For example, a study may be initiated if you click to open an AI chatbot.

{% hint style="info" %}
**Note:** Dscout automatically deletes data from sites we consider sensitive, private, or irrelevant to research on our platform. We also use advanced techniques to minimize collection of PII, such as names, phone numbers, and passwords.
{% endhint %}

To be extra clear on what’s collected, here’s how some standard data would look when collected as part of Dscout XT:

*Scout ID: 8762918991*

*Timezone: America/New York*

*URL: <https://www.bankrate.com/finance/credit-cards/best-credit-cards-young-adults/>*

*Visited At: 2024-05-31 21:25:42.805 Z*

Data is not collected retroactively, and you can opt out at any time. For more information, see [What if I change my mind?](#h_01KHVTR902Y01TD8EB776A01GS)

## What does Dscout do with my data?

Dscout uses your data to help connect you with researchers who want to learn more about how people interact with their products and services. (Don't worry—we don't sell your data to advertisers or any third parties.)

If you're matched with a research opportunity, the researcher conducting that study will only see the data that's relevant to the research they're conducting. (And you'll have earned a reward along the way!)

## What if I change my mind?

If you change your mind, no sweat! You can opt out of Dscout XT at any time from the Settings tab of the Dscout Chrome extension. You’ll be disconnected from the program immediately and no additional data will be collected.

{% hint style="info" %}
**Note:** If you opt out of Dscout XT while participating in a study that requires it, you may forfeit payment for that study. We recommend finishing any in-progress studies before you opt out. You’ll also stop receiving customized opportunities.
{% endhint %}

## How long will you keep my data?

We retain XT-collected data for one year. However, we stop collecting data immediately if you opt out of Dscout XT. And we’re always happy to assist with data deletion if you want any already-collected data removed sooner.

To request deletion of any data collected using Dscout XT, send an email to <help@dscout.com>.

{% hint style="info" %}
**Note:** Data you already shared in studies, or data already aggregated into research insights, will not be deleted.
{% endhint %}