Can't access MacBook Air M2 2022 after incorrect password

I just recently bought a used Macbook Air M2 in mint condition. Because I was prompted to do so, I put a login password on it at the outset, but I either repeatedly typed it incorrectly or misspelled it in the first place (it was a foreign word with an odd spelling - I shouldn't have tried to be so tricky). Part of the problem may have been that I didn't set up any specific user account/name, but I'm not certain whether that matters, or, maybe there was some other glitch. At any rate, it would not accept it the password and after numerous tries, it's now locked.

So, from what I've read, it appears the only way to fix this is to entirely reinstall the Sequoia OS. Is that correct? Is there more than one way to do that? I don't have any other devices that will run this OS, but it would be great if there was a way to download it separately and then install it later.

There was a time when I was a tutor in a community college computer lab, but that was a very long time ago, and my knowlege is in general no longer up-to-date. I'd appreciate any info that could assist me in successfully reinstalling the OS and any additional tips that might be helpful. Thanks!

[Re-Titled By Moderator]