To start creating projects on Scratch, you can access it directly through your web browser or download the desktop application for offline use.
Accessing Scratch Online
The most common and straightforward way to go on Scratch is through its official website, which brings you directly to the creative environment.
- Navigate to the Website: Open your preferred web browser and go to the official Scratch website: scratch.mit.edu.
- Click Create: Once you've arrived at the homepage, locate and click the "Create" button. This action will immediately bring you to the Scratch Editor, where you can begin your project.
Using Scratch online ensures you always have access to the latest version of the platform and makes it easy to share your creations with the global Scratch community.
Using Scratch Offline (Desktop App)
For those who prefer to work without an internet connection, have an older operating system, or an unreliable internet service, Scratch offers a dedicated desktop application.
- You can download the Scratch Desktop application from the official Scratch website's download page. Installing this application allows you to continue creating and editing projects even when you are offline. Projects created offline can then be uploaded to your online account when an internet connection is available.
Getting Started in the Scratch Editor
Whether you choose to use Scratch online or the desktop application, the Scratch Editor is where all the magic happens. It's designed to be intuitive and beginner-friendly.
- Block-Based Coding: The editor features a colorful, block-based coding interface. You simply drag and drop these blocks to assemble scripts that control your characters and elements.
- Sprites and Backdrops: You can choose from a vast library of pre-made sprites (characters) and backdrops (backgrounds) or draw your own to personalize your projects.
- Interactive Projects: With these tools, you can bring your ideas to life by creating interactive stories, animated scenes, games, and much more.
Why Create a Scratch Account?
While you can start creating projects immediately without logging in, signing up for a free Scratch account offers significant benefits:
- Save Your Work: Securely save all your projects online, making them accessible from any computer with an internet connection.
- Share with the Community: Publish your completed projects to the Scratch website, allowing others to view, play, and even remix them.
- Engage and Learn: Interact with other Scratchers by commenting on projects, joining studios, and learning from their creations.
Online vs. Offline Access at a Glance
For a quick comparison of the two ways to access Scratch, refer to the table below:
| Feature / Aspect | Scratch Online (Web Browser) | Scratch Desktop (Offline App) |
|---|---|---|
| Access Method | Visit scratch.mit.edu | Download and install from scratch.mit.edu/download |
| Internet Required? | Yes, for initial access, saving, and sharing | No, once installed; Internet needed for download/updates |
| Project Saving | Cloud-based (with a free account) | Locally on your computer |
| Community Access | Full (sharing, commenting, studios) | Limited (projects must be uploaded when online) |
| Ideal For | General use, sharing, latest features | Older OS, unstable internet, creation without constant sharing |
