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

# Set up AI

> Download the writing model, turn on local AI, and try a writing action.

AI writing is optional and runs on your computer. You can record observations and write manually without it.

To set it up, you need Pro or an active Pro trial, an internet connection for the download, and enough free disk space for the size shown on the download screen. Allow the download to finish before you plan to use AI for writing.

Use **Sightline Scout** from the model list. On a Mac, Scout can work with 8 GB of memory; 16 GB leaves more memory for Sightline and other applications.

## Set up through Settings

1. Open **Settings → AI Assistant** and turn on **Local AI**.
2. Under **Models**, find **Sightline Scout** and select **Download**. Sightline also downloads the files that prepare it for behavioral observation writing.
3. Wait for the download to finish. The writing model is selected automatically. If it is already installed, select **Use** instead.
4. Check for **Local AI engine is running** and **Active** beside the writing model.

Both statuses matter: the model contains the files used to generate text, and the engine runs those files. An installed model alone does not mean the engine has started.

After installation, writing is processed locally. License verification may still need an internet connection from time to time.

## Try it on a passage

Open a saved observation's **Write-up**, write a short passage, and select the text. Choose **Rewrite**, then read the proposed revision. **Accept** applies it; **Reject** keeps your original wording.

This tries an actual AI action on your computer. A prepared sample write-up in demo mode contains example text and does not check generation.

See [Use AI while writing](/writeup-ai) for drafting from supported methods and checking the output against the observation.

## If the first-time setup prompt appears

Sightline may offer setup after Pro activation or when you first choose an AI action. You can complete that prompt instead of opening Settings:

1. Let Sightline start the engine and check for a writing model.
2. Select **Download** if prompted.
3. Wait until setup says it is ready, then select **Done**.

**Skip for now** lets you continue without AI. Return through **Settings → AI Assistant** when ready.

## If setup fails

| What you see | What to do |
| - | - |
| A failed model download | Check the internet connection and free disk space, then select **Download** again. Sightline can resume a partial download when available. |
| **AI couldn’t start** | Select **Restart** or **Start** in AI Assistant. Check that the writing model is installed and **Active**. |
| Slow or failed generation while other demanding apps are open | Close those apps and retry. |
| A plan or license message | Open **Settings → Plan** and follow the message. See [Licensing](/licensing) for help. |

You can continue writing manually while resolving setup.

## Turn off AI or remove a model

Turn off **Local AI** in **Settings → AI Assistant** to stop the engine. Your observations and write-ups remain saved.

To remove downloaded model files, select **Delete** beside the model. The active model cannot be deleted from that row; select another installed writing model first if one is available. Using a deleted model again requires another download.


This documentation is built and hosted on [Mintlify](https://mintlify.com), a developer documentation platform.