Getting started with Socrates is straightforward. The built-in Beagle AI model works out of the box with no API key needed. Just pick a topic and start learning. Here is everything you need to know, from setup to your first lesson.
Head to app.topodrive.top. No download, no installation. It works in any modern browser (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge). The interface is split into a sidebar (session history, settings, knowledge map) and the main area where your lessons unfold. On mobile the sidebar collapses and the main view takes full width. Tap the hamburger icon to toggle it.
Socrates comes with a built-in Beagle AI model that works immediately with no configuration needed. If you prefer your own model, click the gear icon in the bottom-left corner to open API Settings. Socrates also works with OpenAI (GPT-5.5), Anthropic (Claude Opus 4.8, Sonnet 4.6), and any OpenAI-compatible endpoint (together.ai, Groq, DeepSeek, local LLMs via vLLM/Ollama).
To get a key: visit platform.openai.com or console.anthropic.com, create an API key, and paste it into the settings. The free tier supports up to 2 keys; paid tiers support up to unlimited keys across different providers.
Type anything you want to learn in the input field at the center of the screen. Socrates adapts to any subject — from calculus to poetry, quantum mechanics to philosophy, machine learning to music theory. Some examples:
Socrates begins with a structured explanation of the topic, introducing concepts one at a time with clear definitions, concrete examples, and connections to prior material. Mathematical notation renders beautifully with LaTeX. Code blocks are syntax-highlighted. Each section reads like a well-written textbook chapter — only it's written specifically for you.
After each key concept, Socrates asks a diagnostic question. Answer correctly and you advance to the next layer. Get it wrong and the tutor revisits the material from a different angle — an alternative explanation, a different example, or a more foundational review. No two learning paths are identical.
You can also switch to Exam Mode to test your knowledge with structured assessments. Generate an exam on any topic, set difficulty and question types, answer at your own pace, and submit for automatic grading. Every answered question is tracked in your mistake book for later review.
Socrates requires an account to use. Sign up with your email to get started — verification is quick, just check your inbox for a confirmation link. Once verified, your sessions, knowledge graph, mistake book, and API keys are all backed up on the server and synced across devices.
“The best way to learn is to teach. Socrates does the teaching so you can focus on the understanding.”Designed around cognitive science principles
Built-in Beagle works out of the box with generous monthly quotas. Or use any OpenAI-compatible endpoint.