> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://help.autoproctor.co/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Before You Get Started

> Critical requirements for using AutoProctor successfully. Follow these five rules to prevent candidates from losing access or answers.

Hundreds of thousands of candidates have used AutoProctor successfully. However, common mistakes can lead to test access failures or lost submissions. Follow these five requirements to avoid issues.

<Warning>
  Improper use of AutoProctor can result in candidates being unable to take tests or losing their submitted answers. Read this page carefully before administering your first test.
</Warning>

## 1. No File Upload Questions

File uploads are not compatible with AutoProctor. Do not include file upload question types in your Google Forms. All other question formats work as expected.

## 2. Share Instructions with Candidates

Almost all issues candidates face can be avoided if they read and follow instructions beforehand. Share the appropriate instructions page based on your test configuration:

| Test Configuration | Instructions to Share                               |
| ------------------ | --------------------------------------------------- |
| Timer only         | [Timed test instructions](/take-timed-exam)         |
| Proctoring enabled | [Proctored test instructions](/take-proctored-exam) |

<Note>
  Have your candidates complete a demo test at least **24 hours** before their actual exam. This helps them understand the platform and verifies their device is compatible. See [Best Practices for Test Creators](/best-practices-for-exam-creators) for the demo link.
</Note>

## 3. Click Both Submit Buttons

Candidates must click two submit buttons -- first the **purple** button within the test form (Google Forms, Microsoft Forms) to save their answers, and then the **green Submit** button within AutoProctor to submit the proctoring session.

<Warning>
  If candidates do not click the **purple submit button first**, all their quiz answers are lost. This cannot be recovered. Share the [submit button guide](/how-to-submit-quiz) with your candidates before the exam.
</Warning>

## 4. Log Out of Other Google Accounts

Candidates experiencing blank pages, connection errors, or inability to select answers should log out of all their other Google accounts before attempting the test. This resolves the majority of technical issues.

For more troubleshooting help, see:

* [Blank Page / Grey Screen](/blank-screen-during-test)
* [Cannot Click Answers](/cannot-click-answers-during-test)
* [Loading Screen Issues](/test-stuck-at-loading-screen)

## 5. Maintain Sufficient Test Attempts

AutoProctor requires paid credits to operate. You must ensure your account has enough test attempts available, or candidates cannot load the test. See [Payments and Credits](/payments-and-credits) for details on purchasing and tracking credits.

<Note>
  When you create a Test Admin account, you receive **10 free credits** to get started. After using them, you must purchase a subscription.
</Note>

## Related Resources

* [Best Practices for Test Creators](/best-practices-for-exam-creators) -- Tips for smooth test administration
* [Proctored Test Instructions](/take-proctored-exam) -- Share with candidates before the test
* [Submit Button Guide](/how-to-submit-quiz) -- Detailed instructions on the submit process
* [Payments and Credits](/payments-and-credits) -- Manage your test attempt credits
* [Device Compatibility](/device-compatibility) -- Supported browsers and devices