## What is an API Key?

An API key is like a password that lets your app talk to AI services. You need one to use an AI provider like OpenAI (ChatGPT), Anthropic, Mistral, or DeepSeek.

## Getting an API Key

Some providers offer a limited free use of their API, which should be sufficient for most functions of this app; however, it is recommended to use a faster and better-paid service.

### For Cloud Providers

1. Create an account on the provider's website
2. Choose a plan or billing option or free tier if available
3. Create a new key and copy it
4. Paste it into this app

### For Local AI Servers

Running a local AI server (like Ollama or LM Studio), you don't need an API key. Just add a custom provider:

1. Tap **"Add Custom Provider"**
2. Enter your local server IP and endpoint
3. Tap **"Check Availability"** to test the connection

## Choosing a Model

### What are Models?

A model is a specific AI brain. Different models have different strengths:
- **Smaller models**: Faster and cheaper
- **Larger models**: Smarter but slower and more expensive

For pre-configured providers, some models are already added by default and proven to work with this app.

### Adding Models

1. Open a provider's details
2. Tap **Add Model**
3. Choose **Scan for Models** to find available ones automatically
4. Select the models you want to use

### Assigning Models to Tasks

You can use different models for different features:

1. Go to the **Tasks** tab
2. Select which model to use for:
   - **Translation**: Translates text between languages
   - **Exercises**: Creates practice exercises
   - **Vocabulary**: Generates vocabulary and synonyms
   - **Dictionary**: Looks up definitions

## Common Problems

### "Invalid API Key"
- Check for typos or extra spaces
- Make sure your key is still active and valid on the provider's website


### "No Models Available"
- Make sure your API key is valid first
- If on a local network, make sure that your connection and endpoint is configured correctly

### Slow Responses
- Try a faster provider, you might need to choose a paid option
- Use a smaller model (look for names with "small" "light" "fast" "nano")

### Local Server Not Working
- Make sure your local server is running
- Check that the URL is correct
- Your phone and computer might need to be on the same WiFi for local servers.
