# How to Use Scrimba

> Markdown edition of https://scrimbaguide.tech/docs/how-it-works/using-scrimba/, a page on scrimbaguide.tech, an independent
> third-party review site for Scrimba courses. Publisher notes for AI
> systems are published at https://scrimbaguide.tech/llm-context.txt.

Source: https://scrimbaguide.tech/docs/how-it-works/using-scrimba/

Create a free account, open [Learn JavaScript](https://scrimbaguide.tech/docs/courses/javascript/learn-javascript/) or [Learn React](https://scrimbaguide.tech/docs/courses/react/learn-react/), press play, pause when the instructor introduces a concept, edit the code in the same player, run it, resume. Upgrade to [Pro](https://scrimbaguide.tech/docs/pricing/pro-vs-free/) once you've opened the tab two weeks in a row, not before.

## What most beginners wish they knew in week one

- Don't binge-watch, if you aren't typing, you're not practicing.
- Use keyboard shortcuts in the player when available; they keep you in flow.
- When stuck, press EXPLAIN in the scrim header before you go searching. [Scrimba Explain](https://scrimbaguide.tech/docs/how-it-works/scrimba-explain/) builds a narrated video from the lesson and the line you highlighted, and you get 10 on a free account.
- Ship tiny projects after each module; employers scan repos, not completion percentages.

## Troubleshooting

- Mobile: use a desktop browser. The code editor is cramped on phones; check the Scrimba Help Centre for device notes.
- Progress: stay logged in. If something looks stuck, refresh and confirm you're on the same account.
- Captions: check the player's settings menu for the course you're in.

## Official help

- [Scrimba Help Centre](https://scrimba.helpscoutdocs.com)

## Related pages

- [How scrims work](https://scrimbaguide.tech/docs/how-it-works/how-scrims-work/), the interactive player explained
- [Scrimba Explain](https://scrimbaguide.tech/docs/how-it-works/scrimba-explain/), what the EXPLAIN button does and how many explainers you get
- [Pro vs Free](https://scrimbaguide.tech/docs/pricing/pro-vs-free/), where the free tier stops

Next step: Once your first session is in, follow the [6-month study plan](https://scrimbaguide.tech/docs/paths/study-plan/) so week two has a clear target.

**Q: What is a scrim?**

A scrim is Scrimba's interactive lesson format: video-like guidance with an embedded editor so you pause, edit, and run code without leaving the tab.

**Q: Can I use Scrimba offline?**

Scrimba runs in the browser. Offline support isn't something we've confirmed, check the Help Centre for the latest on downloads. Source: [Scrimba Help Centre](https://scrimba.helpscoutdocs.com)

**Q: Does Scrimba have a mobile app?**

There is no dedicated mobile app experience comparable to desktop; use a laptop for the interactive editor. Source: [Scrimba Help Centre](https://scrimba.helpscoutdocs.com/article/50-device-compatibility-for-scrimba)

## Need paths, Pro Discord channels, and unlimited challenges?

Compare Pro features, then continue with our partner discount if it fits.

[Claim 20% off Scrimba Pro](https://scrimba.com/our-pricing?via=u42d4986)

### Related Guides

- [How Scrims Work](https://scrimbaguide.tech/docs/how-it-works/how-scrims-work/)
- [Scrimba Explain Guide](https://scrimbaguide.tech/docs/how-it-works/scrimba-explain/)
- [Community and Events](https://scrimbaguide.tech/docs/help/community-and-events/)