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Understanding the Investment Model in Relationships Psychology

12

1

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sheila

25/07/2025

Psychology

Investment Model

529

โ€ข

25 Jul 2025

โ€ข

9 pages

Understanding the Investment Model in Relationships Psychology

The Investment Model in relationships psychology explains how satisfaction, quality... Show more

RELATIONSHIPS
~ A level Psychology ve walt cleane
aho
Cenyatdele nem
Investment Model
Cervalo de em
CERLAC Gements
Cerclocke
Centaron
to see

Components of the Investment Model

Satisfaction

Satisfaction in a relationship is based on the comparison level, which is influenced by previous relationship experiences.

Example: Partners are generally satisfied when they perceive they are getting more out of the current relationship than they expected based on past experiences.

Quality of Alternatives

This component involves evaluating whether one's needs can be better met outside the current relationship.

Vocabulary: The "alternative" can refer to another relationship or even being single.

Investments

Investments are arguably the most crucial component of the model. They can be categorized into two types:

  1. Intrinsic investments: Resources put directly into the relationship e.g.,money,timee.g., money, time
  2. Extrinsic investments: Resources that weren't initially part of the relationship but have become closely associated with it e.g.,children,sharedfriendse.g., children, shared friends

Highlight: Investments help explain why dissatisfied partners may stay in a relationship โ€“ they are committed due to the resources they've invested and don't want to waste.

RELATIONSHIPS
~ A level Psychology ve walt cleane
aho
Cenyatdele nem
Investment Model
Cervalo de em
CERLAC Gements
Cerclocke
Centaron
to see

Satisfaction vs. Commitment

Rusbult's model emphasizes that commitment, not satisfaction, is the primary factor in relationship stability. This distinction is crucial for understanding why some people remain in unsatisfying relationships.

Example: A partner might stay in a relationship despite low satisfaction because they have invested significant time, energy, or resources, making them more committed to maintaining the relationship.

The Investment Model helps explain the complex dynamics of relationship commitment, going beyond simple satisfaction to consider the role of alternatives and investments in shaping long-term relationship outcomes.

RELATIONSHIPS
~ A level Psychology ve walt cleane
aho
Cenyatdele nem
Investment Model
Cervalo de em
CERLAC Gements
Cerclocke
Centaron
to see

Evaluation of the Investment Model

Supporting Research

Le and Agnew conducted a meta-analysis that provides strong support for Rusbult's Investment Model.

Highlight: The meta-analysis reviewed 52 studies from the late 1970s to 1999, including participants from five countries.

Key findings:

  • Satisfaction, comparison with alternatives, and investment size all predicted relationship commitment.
  • Relationships with the greatest commitment were the most stable.
  • Results were consistent across genders, cultures, and sexual orientations.

This research suggests validity in Rusbult's claims and highlights the model's universality.

Correlation vs. Causation

One limitation of the Investment Model is the correlational nature of its supporting research.

Definition: Correlational research demonstrates a relationship between variables but cannot prove causation.

This limitation raises questions about the direction of the relationship between investments and commitment:

  • Does greater investment lead to more commitment?
  • Or does higher commitment lead to more willingness to invest?

The model may identify factors associated with commitment rather than its direct causes.

Reductionism

Critics argue that Rusbult's concept of relationship investment is oversimplified.

Example: Goodfriend and Agnew suggest that future plans, not just past investments, significantly influence commitment.

The original model may be limited in recognizing the true complexity of investment, particularly how planning for the future affects commitment in relationships.

Vocabulary: Reductionism refers to the practice of analyzing complex phenomena by breaking them down into simpler, more fundamental parts.

Understanding these evaluations helps in appreciating both the strengths and limitations of the Investment Model in relationships psychology, providing a more comprehensive view of its application and implications in understanding commitment and relationship stability.

RELATIONSHIPS
~ A level Psychology ve walt cleane
aho
Cenyatdele nem
Investment Model
Cervalo de em
CERLAC Gements
Cerclocke
Centaron
to see

Investment Model in Relationships Psychology

The Investment Model, developed by Caryl Rusbult, is a psychological framework that explains the factors contributing to commitment and stability in romantic relationships. This model addresses limitations in social exchange theory by emphasizing the central role of commitment.

Definition: Commitment in this context refers to a romantic partner's intention or desire to continue a relationship, reflecting a belief that the relationship has a viable long-term future.

The Investment Model identifies three key components that influence commitment:

  1. Satisfaction
  2. Quality of Alternatives
  3. Investments

These factors work together to determine the level of commitment in a relationship, which in turn affects its stability.

Highlight: Rusbult argues that commitment, rather than satisfaction, is the main psychological factor causing people to stay in a relationship.

RELATIONSHIPS
~ A level Psychology ve walt cleane
aho
Cenyatdele nem
Investment Model
Cervalo de em
CERLAC Gements
Cerclocke
Centaron
to see
RELATIONSHIPS
~ A level Psychology ve walt cleane
aho
Cenyatdele nem
Investment Model
Cervalo de em
CERLAC Gements
Cerclocke
Centaron
to see
RELATIONSHIPS
~ A level Psychology ve walt cleane
aho
Cenyatdele nem
Investment Model
Cervalo de em
CERLAC Gements
Cerclocke
Centaron
to see
RELATIONSHIPS
~ A level Psychology ve walt cleane
aho
Cenyatdele nem
Investment Model
Cervalo de em
CERLAC Gements
Cerclocke
Centaron
to see
RELATIONSHIPS
~ A level Psychology ve walt cleane
aho
Cenyatdele nem
Investment Model
Cervalo de em
CERLAC Gements
Cerclocke
Centaron
to see


We thought youโ€™d never ask...

What is the Knowunity AI companion?

Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.

Where can I download the Knowunity app?

You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

Is Knowunity really free of charge?

That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help โ€“ all at your fingertips.

Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

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The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because itโ€™s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didnโ€™t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as Iโ€™m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH ๐Ÿ˜๐Ÿ˜๐Ÿ˜ฒ๐Ÿค‘๐Ÿ’—โœจ๐ŸŽ€๐Ÿ˜ฎ

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because itโ€™s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didnโ€™t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as Iโ€™m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH ๐Ÿ˜๐Ÿ˜๐Ÿ˜ฒ๐Ÿค‘๐Ÿ’—โœจ๐ŸŽ€๐Ÿ˜ฎ

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

ย 

Psychology

โ€ข

529

โ€ข

25 Jul 2025

โ€ข

9 pages

Understanding the Investment Model in Relationships Psychology

The Investment Model in relationships psychology explains how satisfaction, quality of alternatives, and investments contribute to commitment and relationship stability. This model, developed by Caryl Rusbult, addresses limitations in social exchange theory and emphasizes commitment's central role in maintaining relationships.... Show more

RELATIONSHIPS
~ A level Psychology ve walt cleane
aho
Cenyatdele nem
Investment Model
Cervalo de em
CERLAC Gements
Cerclocke
Centaron
to see

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

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Components of the Investment Model

Satisfaction

Satisfaction in a relationship is based on the comparison level, which is influenced by previous relationship experiences.

Example: Partners are generally satisfied when they perceive they are getting more out of the current relationship than they expected based on past experiences.

Quality of Alternatives

This component involves evaluating whether one's needs can be better met outside the current relationship.

Vocabulary: The "alternative" can refer to another relationship or even being single.

Investments

Investments are arguably the most crucial component of the model. They can be categorized into two types:

  1. Intrinsic investments: Resources put directly into the relationship e.g.,money,timee.g., money, time
  2. Extrinsic investments: Resources that weren't initially part of the relationship but have become closely associated with it e.g.,children,sharedfriendse.g., children, shared friends

Highlight: Investments help explain why dissatisfied partners may stay in a relationship โ€“ they are committed due to the resources they've invested and don't want to waste.

RELATIONSHIPS
~ A level Psychology ve walt cleane
aho
Cenyatdele nem
Investment Model
Cervalo de em
CERLAC Gements
Cerclocke
Centaron
to see

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Satisfaction vs. Commitment

Rusbult's model emphasizes that commitment, not satisfaction, is the primary factor in relationship stability. This distinction is crucial for understanding why some people remain in unsatisfying relationships.

Example: A partner might stay in a relationship despite low satisfaction because they have invested significant time, energy, or resources, making them more committed to maintaining the relationship.

The Investment Model helps explain the complex dynamics of relationship commitment, going beyond simple satisfaction to consider the role of alternatives and investments in shaping long-term relationship outcomes.

RELATIONSHIPS
~ A level Psychology ve walt cleane
aho
Cenyatdele nem
Investment Model
Cervalo de em
CERLAC Gements
Cerclocke
Centaron
to see

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Evaluation of the Investment Model

Supporting Research

Le and Agnew conducted a meta-analysis that provides strong support for Rusbult's Investment Model.

Highlight: The meta-analysis reviewed 52 studies from the late 1970s to 1999, including participants from five countries.

Key findings:

  • Satisfaction, comparison with alternatives, and investment size all predicted relationship commitment.
  • Relationships with the greatest commitment were the most stable.
  • Results were consistent across genders, cultures, and sexual orientations.

This research suggests validity in Rusbult's claims and highlights the model's universality.

Correlation vs. Causation

One limitation of the Investment Model is the correlational nature of its supporting research.

Definition: Correlational research demonstrates a relationship between variables but cannot prove causation.

This limitation raises questions about the direction of the relationship between investments and commitment:

  • Does greater investment lead to more commitment?
  • Or does higher commitment lead to more willingness to invest?

The model may identify factors associated with commitment rather than its direct causes.

Reductionism

Critics argue that Rusbult's concept of relationship investment is oversimplified.

Example: Goodfriend and Agnew suggest that future plans, not just past investments, significantly influence commitment.

The original model may be limited in recognizing the true complexity of investment, particularly how planning for the future affects commitment in relationships.

Vocabulary: Reductionism refers to the practice of analyzing complex phenomena by breaking them down into simpler, more fundamental parts.

Understanding these evaluations helps in appreciating both the strengths and limitations of the Investment Model in relationships psychology, providing a more comprehensive view of its application and implications in understanding commitment and relationship stability.

RELATIONSHIPS
~ A level Psychology ve walt cleane
aho
Cenyatdele nem
Investment Model
Cervalo de em
CERLAC Gements
Cerclocke
Centaron
to see

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Investment Model in Relationships Psychology

The Investment Model, developed by Caryl Rusbult, is a psychological framework that explains the factors contributing to commitment and stability in romantic relationships. This model addresses limitations in social exchange theory by emphasizing the central role of commitment.

Definition: Commitment in this context refers to a romantic partner's intention or desire to continue a relationship, reflecting a belief that the relationship has a viable long-term future.

The Investment Model identifies three key components that influence commitment:

  1. Satisfaction
  2. Quality of Alternatives
  3. Investments

These factors work together to determine the level of commitment in a relationship, which in turn affects its stability.

Highlight: Rusbult argues that commitment, rather than satisfaction, is the main psychological factor causing people to stay in a relationship.

RELATIONSHIPS
~ A level Psychology ve walt cleane
aho
Cenyatdele nem
Investment Model
Cervalo de em
CERLAC Gements
Cerclocke
Centaron
to see

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

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RELATIONSHIPS
~ A level Psychology ve walt cleane
aho
Cenyatdele nem
Investment Model
Cervalo de em
CERLAC Gements
Cerclocke
Centaron
to see

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

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RELATIONSHIPS
~ A level Psychology ve walt cleane
aho
Cenyatdele nem
Investment Model
Cervalo de em
CERLAC Gements
Cerclocke
Centaron
to see

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

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By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

RELATIONSHIPS
~ A level Psychology ve walt cleane
aho
Cenyatdele nem
Investment Model
Cervalo de em
CERLAC Gements
Cerclocke
Centaron
to see

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

RELATIONSHIPS
~ A level Psychology ve walt cleane
aho
Cenyatdele nem
Investment Model
Cervalo de em
CERLAC Gements
Cerclocke
Centaron
to see

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

We thought youโ€™d never ask...

What is the Knowunity AI companion?

Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.

Where can I download the Knowunity app?

You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

Is Knowunity really free of charge?

That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help โ€“ all at your fingertips.

Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

Students love us โ€” and so will you.

4.9/5

App Store

4.8/5

Google Play

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because itโ€™s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didnโ€™t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as Iโ€™m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH ๐Ÿ˜๐Ÿ˜๐Ÿ˜ฒ๐Ÿค‘๐Ÿ’—โœจ๐ŸŽ€๐Ÿ˜ฎ

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because itโ€™s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didnโ€™t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as Iโ€™m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH ๐Ÿ˜๐Ÿ˜๐Ÿ˜ฒ๐Ÿค‘๐Ÿ’—โœจ๐ŸŽ€๐Ÿ˜ฎ

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user