# How Word Gate works

> Learn how Word Gate blocks distracting iPhone apps, presents vocabulary challenges, and turns correct answers into earned access time.

Canonical: https://wordgate.app/how-it-works
Last updated: 2026-04-26

Word Gate combines Screen Time blocking, active proof vocabulary challenges, and a visible access balance.

## 1. Choose distractions

The user selects apps, categories, or domains through the iOS Screen Time selection flow. Word Gate stores the selection as Apple-provided Screen Time tokens.

## 2. Open a blocked app

When a selected app is blocked, Word Gate presents a shielded experience instead of letting the user fall straight into the app.

## 3. Complete active proof

The user completes a short vocabulary interaction. Implemented prompt styles include multiple choice, cloze context, short input, and listening-oriented challenges.

If the user does not know a word, Word Gate can show a teaching state with the word, meaning, and example context before asking for verification.

## 4. Earn access

Correct answers move the session forward and update the access balance. The app shows the user what they earned so access feels deliberate instead of automatic.

## 5. Review and look up words

The dashboard and vocabulary surfaces support word lookup, definitions, and study configuration so the blocker and learning loop stay connected.