# Overview

A sandbox is a hands-on environment where a candidate or learner must actually do something to pass. You author it — the platform delivers it.

## Two sandbox types

**SkillCred items** are scored exam tasks. A candidate completes a task; the sandbox grades them automatically.

**Labs** are guided practice environments. A learner works through instructions at their own pace.

Both types share the same core building blocks.

## Building blocks

| File | Purpose |
| --- | --- |
| `sandbox.yaml` | Defines the VM, tools, and UI |
| `task.en.md` / `instructions.md` | What the candidate or learner sees |
| `metadata.yaml` | Exam metadata (SkillCred only) |
| `host1/scripts/build.sh` | Installs packages at image build time |
| `host1/scripts/setup.sh` | Waits for runtime readiness; left blank when possible |
| `host1/scripts/answer.sh` | Applies the reference solution (testing only) |
| `host1/scripts/score.sh` | Grades the candidate's work |

## Get started

[Set up your Codespace](https://skills.staging.lf-cert.cloud/docs/setting-up/index.md), then follow the [Quickstart](https://skills.staging.lf-cert.cloud/docs/quickstart/index.md) to build your first sandbox in under 30 minutes.

When you receive assigned work, follow the [SkillCred author workflow](https://skills.staging.lf-cert.cloud/docs/skillcred/author-workflow/index.md) or the [lab author workflow](https://skills.staging.lf-cert.cloud/docs/labs/author-workflow/index.md).