> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://help.dscout.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://help.dscout.com/recruit-participants/dscout-scout-panel.md).

# Dscout Scout Panel

Dscout’s Scout Panel is our proprietary pool of research participants. It is only available through Dscout. We stand behind the quality of the Scout Panel, so you can collect thoughtful responses and useful insights across study types.

When you recruit from the Scout Panel, you can shape your audience before launch and refine your selection after applications arrive. Use targeting tools to reach the right people, screening logic to qualify applicants, and selection tools to hand-pick or auto-select participants who match your research goals.

{% hint style="info" %}
**Note:** Some recruiting tools in this section are only available when recruiting from the Dscout Scout Panel.
{% endhint %}

## Ways to narrow your recruit

Use these tools to define who can apply:

* [Targeting attributes](/recruit-participants/dscout-scout-panel/targeting-attributes.md) to filter participants by demographics, behaviors, and custom criteria.
* [Knockout questions](/recruit-participants/dscout-scout-panel/knockout-questions.md) to disqualify applicants who do not fit your study.
* [Exclude recent participants from missions](/recruit-participants/dscout-scout-panel/exclude-recent-participants-from-missions.md) to avoid hearing from the same Scouts too often.
* [Participant balance](/recruit-participants/dscout-scout-panel/participant-balance.md) and [Ethnicity balance](/recruit-participants/dscout-scout-panel/ethnicity-balance.md) to create a more balanced sample.
* [Expressiveness](/recruit-participants/dscout-scout-panel/expressiveness.md) to prioritize clear, thoughtful communicators.

## Ways to select participants

After your screener or mission collects applications, you can choose participants in two ways:

* **Hand-pick participants:** Review applications, compare responses, and invite the best-fit Scouts. For more information, see [View applications and select participants](/recruit-participants/dscout-scout-panel/view-applications-and-select-participants.md).
* **Auto-select participants:** In supported study types, Dscout can automatically advance qualified applicants based on your targeting and screening criteria.

## Learn more about Scout Panel tools

Explore these related articles:

* [Standard targeting attributes](/recruit-participants/dscout-scout-panel/targeting-attributes/standard-targeting-attributes.md)
* [Behavioral targeting attributes](/recruit-participants/dscout-scout-panel/targeting-attributes/behavioral-targeting-attributes.md)
* [Custom targeting attributes](/recruit-participants/dscout-scout-panel/targeting-attributes/custom-targeting-attributes.md)
* [Programming insight](/recruit-participants/dscout-scout-panel/programming-insight.md)


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