> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://help.creatoryogames.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://help.creatoryogames.com/tutorials/using-cyc-annotate/using-recovery-assistant.md).

# Using Recovery Assistant

## Recovery Assistant

{% hint style="warning" %}
Recovery Assistant is a **beta** tool. Export your data before restoring or resetting.
{% endhint %}

<figure><img src="/files/eQpgWmKFOghyMLje7hHF" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

Recovery Assistant restarts CYC Annotate in a dedicated recovery mode. Use it to restore data, create backups, diagnose problems, or reset the app safely.

It opens in its own window. CYC Annotate closes its normal windows while recovery mode is active.

### Open Recovery Assistant

1. Right-click the CYC Annotate tray icon.
2. Select **Help → Recovery Assistant**.
3. Wait for CYC Annotate to restart in recovery mode.

Alternatively, you can do WIN + R or type in your browser cyc-annotate://recovery.

### Leave recovery mode

Choose **Exit Recovery Assistant** from the main menu. You can also press <kbd>Esc</kbd>.

Confirm the prompt to restart CYC Annotate normally.

### Choose the right option

* Use [back up and recover data](/tutorials/using-cyc-annotate/using-recovery-assistant/back-up-and-recover-data.md) to create or restore a backup.
* Use [diagnostics and system information](/tutorials/using-cyc-annotate/using-recovery-assistant/diagnostics-and-system-information.md) to investigate an issue.
* Use [reset options](/tutorials/using-cyc-annotate/using-recovery-assistant/reset-options.md) only when you need to remove data or preferences.

{% hint style="info" %}
Diagnostics identify problems. Import, restore, and reset actions change data.
{% endhint %}