AlphaKhoj
User Guide

Turn Any Textbook Into Practice Games

A neuroscience-backed platform for building reading fluency through high-volume practice in just 15 minutes a day

Version 1.0 | January 2024
alphakhoj.com
Designed by neuroscientists from the Indian Institute of Science

Table of Contents

1. Introduction

1.1 What is AlphaKhoj?

AlphaKhoj is a neuroscience-based reading fluency application designed to help children and adults build automatic word recognition through high-volume practice. Unlike traditional reading apps that use generic content, AlphaKhoj allows you to scan your own textbooks, homework pages, or any text material and instantly converts them into engaging practice games.

The app addresses a fundamental challenge in reading development: struggling readers need massive repetition (100+ exposures) to build automatic word recognition, but traditional textbooks only provide 5-10 exposures per word. AlphaKhoj bridges this gap by delivering rapid, meaningful repetitions through cognitive games.

Note: AlphaKhoj is designed by neuroscientists from the Indian Institute of Science and is based on the principles of Active Recall and the Testing Effect, which have been shown to improve long-term retention by up to 50% compared to passive re-reading.

1.2 Who is AlphaKhoj For?

AlphaKhoj is perfect for:

1.3 The 4-Step Learning Methodology

AlphaKhoj is built on a neuroscience-backed 4-step approach that mirrors how the brain naturally acquires reading fluency. Each step is designed to strengthen neural pathways for effective, lasting learning.

Step 1: Learn

Introduce new content through engaging audio and visuals

In the "Hear and Repeat" exercise, learners are introduced to new words or letters with clear pronunciation audio. This creates the initial connection between the written symbol and its sound - the foundation of reading.

Step 2: Recognize

Quickly identify and differentiate shapes and sounds

The "Form the Word" game develops pattern recognition skills. Learners must identify correct letters from options, building visual discrimination abilities that are crucial for fluent reading.

Step 3: Recall

Actively retrieve from memory - this is where deep learning happens!

The "Odd One Out" exercise uses Active Recall - the act of retrieving information from memory rather than just recognizing it. Research shows this is 50% more effective than passive re-reading. Learners must recall and speak the target word, not just point to it.

Step 4: Practice

Gamified challenges that deliver massive repetition

The "Invaders" game provides high-volume practice in an engaging format. This is where fluency is truly built - through rapid, repeated exposure until recognition becomes automatic and effortless.

Why This Works:

Traditional learning often involves passively re-reading material, which creates an "illusion of knowing" but fades quickly. AlphaKhoj's 4-step method is built on Active Recall (the "Testing Effect"), which has been proven to improve long-term retention by up to 50%. Each step builds on the previous one, moving from introduction → recognition → recall → automatic fluency.

1.4 Key Features

AI Studio - Custom Content Creation

Personalized Learning Journeys

Neuroscience-Backed Practice Games

Comprehensive Analytics

Gamification & Motivation

1.5 Supported Languages

AlphaKhoj currently supports the following languages for learning:

Language Script OCR Support
Hindi Devanagari
English Latin
Tamil Tamil
Telugu Telugu
Kannada Kannada
Malayalam Malayalam
Bengali/Bangla Bengali
Gujarati Gujarati
Tip: You can set a "Learning Language" (the language you're practicing) and a "Home Language" (for instructions) separately on the dashboard.

2. Getting Started

2.1 System Requirements

Web Browser (Primary)

AlphaKhoj is a browser-based application that works on any modern device:

Android App

2.2 Accessing AlphaKhoj

Web Browser (Recommended)

1 Open your web browser and navigate to:
https://frontend.alphakhoj.com

2 Grant camera and microphone permissions when prompted

3 The web version offers full functionality

AlphaKhoj web app login screen

Android App

1 Visit the Google Play Store or go directly to:
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.alphakhoj.frontend.twa

2 Tap "Install" and wait for the download to complete

3 Once installed, tap "Open" to launch AlphaKhoj

4 Grant necessary permissions when prompted

2.3 Creating Your Account

When you first access AlphaKhoj, you'll need to create an account:

1 On the login screen, tap "Sign Up" or "Create Account"

2 You can sign up using:

3 Enter your details and create your account

4 Verify your email address if signing up with email

2.4 Setting Up User Profiles

After creating your account, you'll set up user profiles for your children or learners:

1 On the "Select User" screen, tap "Add New Child" or the "+" button

2 Enter the child's information:

3 The profile is automatically created and saved

4 Repeat for additional children if needed

5 Select a profile to begin learning

User profile creation screen
Tip: Each child gets their own personalized learning journey with separate progress tracking. You can easily switch between profiles from the Select User screen.

3. Dashboard Overview

3.1 Dashboard Layout

The Dashboard is the central hub of AlphaKhoj where you can access all major features. After logging in and selecting a user profile, you'll see the main dashboard screen.

Main dashboard showing all sections

Top Navigation Bar

Profile Card

Footer Navigation Bar

At the bottom of the dashboard, you'll find four navigation buttons:

Button Description
Progress View analytics and reading insights
Cards Access your unlocked word card collection
Lessons Browse and manage lessons in the Library
Settings Access app settings and preferences

3.2 "Up Next" Section

The main content area shows your currently selected lesson:

Action Buttons

Below the lesson card, you'll find two action buttons:

Start Playing Button

The large "Start Playing" button launches the Child Home screen where learning takes place.

Dashboard with Up Next card

3.3 Language Settings

AlphaKhoj supports two language settings that can be configured on the dashboard:

Learning Language

This is the language you want to practice and improve. All words, exercises, and content will be in this language.

Home Language ("from")

This is the language used for instructions and navigation. It helps learners understand what to do in each exercise.

Changing Language Settings

1 On the dashboard, locate the language dropdowns under your profile

2 Select "Learning" dropdown and choose from available options

3 Select "from" dropdown for your instruction language

4 Changes are saved automatically

Tip: For beginners, set the Home Language to a language the learner is comfortable with, so they can understand instructions while practicing a new script.

3.4 Coins & Piggy Bank Rewards

AlphaKhoj uses gamification to maintain motivation and build consistent learning habits.

Coins

Earn coins by completing exercises:

Piggy Bank

Tap on the piggy bank icon to view:

Piggy bank popup showing streak and rewards

4. AI Studio - Creating Custom Content

AI Studio is AlphaKhoj's powerful feature for creating personalized lessons from any text material. This ensures that home practice aligns perfectly with school curriculum.

4.1 Scanning Textbooks (OCR)

The OCR (Optical Character Recognition) scanner allows you to capture text from physical books, homework pages, newspapers, or any printed material.

How to Scan a Textbook

1 From the dashboard, tap the "AI Studio" button

2 Tap "Scan a book to add words" (camera icon)

3 Grant camera permission if prompted

4 Position your device camera over the text you want to scan:

5 Tap the capture button to take the photo

6 Wait for OCR processing (usually 2-5 seconds)

7 Review detected text blocks and select the ones you want

8 Tap "Extract Words" to process selected text

9 Review and confirm to create the lesson

OCR scanner interface showing camera view

OCR Best Practices

Tips for Better OCR Results:

4.2 Searching for Topics

You can search for topics to create lessons from the AI Studio search feature.

How to Search for Topics

1 From AI Studio, find the search box labeled "Or search for a topic"

2 Enter a search term (e.g., "India", "colours", "animals")

3 Press Enter or tap the search icon

4 Review search results and select to create a lesson

AI Studio with search box and results

4.3 Manual Word Entry

If you want to create a custom lesson with specific words, you can manually enter them.

How to Add Words Manually

1 From AI Studio, scroll down to "Or add words manually"

2 Type words one by one in the input fields

3 Tap "Add word" to add more input fields

4 Continue adding words (minimum 5 words recommended)

5 When finished, tap "Done" to create the lesson

Manual word entry interface with input fields

Word Entry Guidelines

Best Practices:

5. Lessons Library

The Lessons Library is where you browse, select, and manage all your learning content.

5.1 Browsing Lessons

Accessing the Library

1 From the dashboard, tap "Library" or the "Lessons" button in the footer

2 The Lessons Library opens with two tabs:

Lessons Library showing two tabs with topic list

Topic Cards

Each topic in the list shows:

Language Toggle

Use the "Show in English" toggle to view topic names in either English or the native script.

5.2 Selecting a Lesson

Setting a Lesson as "Up Next"

1 Browse the Lessons Library

2 Find the topic you want to practice

3 Tap on the checkmark area to select it

4 You'll be redirected to the dashboard with this topic as "Up Next"

Viewing Subtopics and Words

1 Tap on a topic card to expand it

2 Subtopics are displayed with naming format: "Learn {first word}...{last word}"

3 Tap on a subtopic to see all words included

Expanded topic showing subtopics with words

5.3 Modifying Custom Lessons

Custom lessons (created via AI Studio) can be edited.

Editing a Custom Lesson

1 Go to Lessons Library > "Created" tab

2 Find the lesson you want to modify

3 Tap the edit button (pencil icon)

4 Modify the lesson as needed

5 Save your changes

Lesson modification dialog

6. Learning Journey

6.1 Child Home Screen

The Child Home screen is the main interface for learners to practice and progress through their current lesson.

Screen Layout

Background & Visual Theme

Profile Icon (Top Right)

Words Preview

Child Home screen showing island journey with boat and level eggs

Boat Animation

As you complete levels, a boat animates along a path between islands, providing visual feedback on your journey progress.

6.2 Progression System (4 Levels)

Each subtopic (group of 5 words) requires completing 4 levels. Each level is represented by an "egg" on the screen.

Level Sequence

The 4 levels directly implement the neuroscience-backed 4-step methodology (see Section 1.3):

Level Step Exercise Purpose
Level 1 Learn Hear and Repeat Introduce words with audio; build sound-symbol connection
Level 2 Recognize Form the Word Visual identification; distinguish letter shapes
Level 3 Recall Odd One Out / Scribble Active retrieval from memory; produce, not just recognize
Level 4 Practice Invaders Game High-volume repetition; build automatic recognition
Why 4 Levels? Each level targets a different cognitive skill. Completing all 4 ensures the word moves from "new" to "automatic" - the definition of reading fluency.

Starting an Exercise

1 Tap on any available (unlocked) level egg

2 A start game dialog appears with the exercise name

3 Tap to begin the exercise

4 Complete the exercise

5 Return to Child Home with progress updated

Performance Coins

Each level shows up to 3 coins below the egg:

Optional Test After Level 1

After completing Level 1 (Hear and Repeat), a dialog appears asking:

"Are you ready for a test?"

If you pass the test (70%+ accuracy), you may unlock new content faster.

6.3 Unlocking New Content

After completing all 4 levels for a subtopic:

1 Celebration dialog appears: "Amazing Progress!"

2 Shows completion message and star icon

3 Tap "Let's Go!" to proceed to the next subtopic

4 The boat moves forward on the journey

5 New words are loaded for the next subtopic

Completion dialog with Amazing Progress message

7. Exercises and Games

AlphaKhoj includes five neuroscience-backed exercises designed to build different aspects of reading fluency.

7.1 Hear and Repeat (Level 1)

Purpose

Develops accurate pronunciation and connects written words with their sounds. This is the foundation of reading fluency.

How It Works

1 A word appears on screen

2 Audio pronunciation plays automatically

3 For multi-syllable words, syllable breakdown may be provided

4 Learner repeats the word out loud

5 Speech recognition analyzes pronunciation

6 Feedback is provided based on accuracy

7 Proceed to next word

Hear and Repeat interface showing word, audio controls, and microphone

Tips for Success

For Best Results:

7.2 Form the Word (Level 2)

Purpose

Builds spelling skills and morphological awareness by constructing words from letters.

How It Works

1 A target word is displayed

2 Letters appear on screen for collection

3 Swipe left or right to collect the correct letters

4 Build the word letter by letter

5 Complete the word to hear pronunciation

6 Proceed to next word

Form the Word game showing letter collection interface

Skills Developed

7.3 Find the Odd One Out / Scribble Letter (Level 3)

Level 3 varies based on the type of content being practiced.

Option A: Find the Odd One Out (for word topics)

Purpose

Develops rapid word recognition and processing speed through voice-based selection.

How It Works

1 Multiple words appear on screen

2 Say the target word out loud to select it

3 Speech recognition validates your selection

4 Immediate feedback provided

Odd One Out exercise showing multiple word options

Option B: Scribble Letter (for letter topics)

Purpose

Develops motor skills and letter formation knowledge for alphabet learning.

Part 1: Drawing Practice

1 A letter appears with pronunciation

2 A drawing canvas is provided

3 Draw/write the letter using finger or stylus

4 Drawing assessment provides feedback based on closeness to the target

5 Option to use hint (shows letter outline if needed)

6 Proceed to next letter until all are completed

Scribble Letter interface showing drawing canvas

Part 2: Challenge Round

After completing the drawing practice for all letters, a Challenge Round begins:

1 Audio plays a letter sound

2 Multiple letter images appear as options (showing different handwriting styles)

3 Select the correct letter that matches the sound

4 This tests recognition across different fonts and handwriting variations

Challenge Round MCQ with different handwriting style options
Why the Challenge Round? In real life, learners encounter letters in many different handwriting styles and fonts. The Challenge Round builds flexibility in recognition - ensuring they can identify a letter whether it's printed, handwritten, or stylized differently.
Note: The system automatically determines which exercise to show based on whether you're learning letters or words.

7.4 Shoot Odd One Out - Invaders Game (Level 4)

Purpose

Provides high-volume, rapid repetition in an engaging game format. Delivers many word exposures per minute while feeling like entertainment.

How It Works

1 Words descend from top of screen (like Space Invaders)

2 Tap/shoot the matching word before it reaches the bottom

3 Avoid or ignore incorrect words

4 Game speeds up as you progress

5 Score based on accuracy and speed

Invaders game with descending words

Controls

Why This Game Works

Neuroscience Insight:

This game leverages the brain's reward system and creates "flow" where learning feels effortless. The rapid repetition builds automatic word recognition - the foundation of fluency. Because it feels like play rather than study, learners maintain focus longer.

7.5 Same or Different (Optional Test)

Purpose

Tests comprehension and word recognition. Offered after Level 1 as an optional shortcut to test readiness.

How It Works

1 After completing Level 1, dialog asks "Are you ready for a test?"

2 If you choose Yes (✓):

3 Results:

8. Progress Tracking & Analytics

AlphaKhoj provides analytics to help monitor learning progress and identify areas needing attention.

8.1 Reading Pattern Analysis

Accessing Progress

From the dashboard, tap "Progress" in the footer navigation

Reading Pattern Classification

The system classifies reading patterns based on performance data and displays:

8.2 Performance Insights

Overall Performance

Shows your accuracy percentage across all exercises.

Strengths

Lists areas where the learner is performing well, marked with green checkmarks.

Areas to Focus On

Lists areas needing improvement, with suggestions for practice.

Strengths and Areas to Focus On sections

8.3 Error Analysis

Areas Needing Practice

Displays specific words or letters with the most mistakes:

Error analysis showing words with mistakes
Using Analytics Effectively:

9. Card Collection

The Card Collection provides a visual representation of learning progress. Each mastered word becomes an unlockable card.

Accessing Card Collection

1 From the dashboard, tap "Cards" in the footer navigation

2 View all your unlocked word cards

Card collection grid view

How Cards Are Unlocked

Cards are earned as you complete exercises and master words throughout your learning journey.

10. Settings

Access Settings from the footer navigation on the dashboard.

Available Settings

Settings menu

11. Best Practices for Learning

The 15-Minute Rule

Consistency beats duration. Research shows that 15 minutes of focused, daily practice is more effective than occasional longer sessions.

Establishing a Routine

Select a consistent daily time when your child is:

Creating a Learning Environment

Using AI Studio Effectively

Create content that matters to your child:

12. Troubleshooting

Common Issues

Problem Solution
Microphone not working Check browser/app permissions for microphone access
Speech recognition fails Reduce background noise; speak clearly; check internet connection
Camera not working for OCR Check camera permissions; ensure good lighting
Page not loading Check internet connection; refresh the page; clear browser cache
Audio not playing Check device volume; unmute the device; check browser audio permissions
Progress not saving Ensure internet connection; wait for sync; refresh and retry

13. Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What makes AlphaKhoj different from other reading apps?

A: Most reading apps use generic content that may not align with school learning. AlphaKhoj lets you scan your child's actual textbook and convert those exact words into practice games. This alignment between home practice and school learning dramatically improves fluency development.

Q: Is AlphaKhoj suitable for children with dyslexia?

A: Yes! AlphaKhoj is designed for children who struggle with reading fluency, including those with dyslexia. The high-volume practice through engaging games helps build automatic word recognition.

Q: How long does it take to see results?

A: Most users see noticeable improvements in 4-6 weeks of consistent practice (15-20 minutes daily). The key is consistency.

Q: Is AlphaKhoj free?

A: Yes! AlphaKhoj is completely free to use. All features are available at no cost.

Q: Which languages does AlphaKhoj support?

A: AlphaKhoj supports English, Hindi, Gujarati, Bangla, Kannada, Telugu, Malayalam, and Tamil.

Q: Can I use AlphaKhoj on multiple devices?

A: Yes! Log in with the same account on any device and your progress syncs automatically.

14. Support & Contact Information

Getting Help

Online Resources

Resource URL
Website https://alphakhoj.com
Web App https://frontend.alphakhoj.com
Google Play Store Play Store Link

Contact Support

Email Support

Email: aakash@alum.iisc.ac.in

Response Time: Usually within 24-48 hours

Acknowledgments

AlphaKhoj is developed by neuroscientists from the Indian Institute of Science and supported by Emergent Ventures.

Thank You for Using AlphaKhoj!

We're honored to be part of your reading fluency journey.

Remember: Consistency is key. Just 15 minutes a day can transform reading abilities.

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