How to Code a Simple Web App Using AI Tools in 2026

Building a web app can feel overwhelming, especially if you're not a seasoned developer. But what if I told you that with the right AI tools, you could code a simple web app in just 2 hours? This isn't just another hype-filled promise; I've done it, and I’m here to share how you can too.

Prerequisites: What You Need to Get Started

Before you dive in, make sure you have the following:

• Basic coding knowledge: Familiarity with HTML, CSS, and JavaScript will help, but it’s not mandatory.
• A code editor: I recommend using VS Code (free).
• Accounts for AI tools: Sign up for tools like OpenAI, GitHub Copilot, and others listed below.
• A web hosting service: Netlify or Vercel are great options for deploying your app for free.

Step 1: Choose the Right AI Tools

Here’s a list of AI tools that can significantly speed up your development process:

| Tool | What It Does | Pricing | Best For | Limitations | Our Take | |---------------------|-------------------------------------------|-----------------------------|-------------------------------|----------------------------------|-----------------------------------| | OpenAI | Generates code snippets based on prompts | Free tier + $20/mo pro | Quick coding tasks | Can produce incorrect code | We use OpenAI for rapid prototyping. | | GitHub Copilot | AI-powered code completion | $10/mo | Real-time coding assistance | Limited to GitHub environments | It’s great for reducing boilerplate. | | Replit | Collaborative coding environment | Free tier + $7/mo pro | Learning and small projects | Performance can lag with heavy loads | We use it for quick demos. | | CodeSandbox | In-browser code editor | Free tier + $12/mo pro | Frontend development | Limited backend support | Good for quick prototypes. | | Pipedream | Integrates APIs easily | Free tier + $19/mo pro | Connecting services | Complexity with advanced workflows | We use it for API integrations. | | Bubble | No-code app builder | Free tier + $29/mo pro | MVPs without coding | Limited customization | Not our go-to, but useful for non-coders. | | Airtable | Database management with a spreadsheet UI | Free tier + $10/mo pro | Backend data management | Not a full database replacement | We hesitate to use it for large datasets. | | Figma | Design wireframes and UI | Free tier + $15/mo pro | UI/UX design | Steeper learning curve | Essential for mockups. | | Zapier | Automates workflows | Free tier + $19/mo pro | Connecting apps | Limited integrations on free tier | We prefer it for simple automations. | | Vercel | Hosting for frontend apps | Free tier + $20/mo pro | Fast deployment | Not suited for large-scale apps | Perfect for our static sites. | | Netlify | Hosting and serverless functions | Free tier + $19/mo pro | JAMstack apps | Limited server-side capabilities | We love its ease of use. | | DhiWise | Code generation from Figma designs | Free tier + $29/mo pro | Converting designs to code | Limited tech stack support | We haven't fully explored it yet. |

Step 2: Outline Your Web App

Before writing any code, sketch out a simple wireframe of what you want your app to do. Keep it straightforward—think of a to-do list or a simple blog. This will guide your coding process and help you stay focused.

Step 3: Set Up Your Development Environment

1. Open your code editor and create a new project folder.
2. Install necessary dependencies if you're using frameworks like React or Vue.js. Use npm or yarn to manage packages.

Step 4: Use AI Tools to Generate Code

1. Start with HTML and CSS: Use OpenAI to generate the basic structure of your app. For example, prompt it with “Generate a simple to-do list HTML structure.”
2. Add functionality with JavaScript: Use GitHub Copilot to suggest functions for adding and removing tasks. For example, type function addTask and let Copilot suggest the rest.
3. Design with Figma: Create a simple UI and export assets to your project.

Step 5: Deploy Your Web App

1. Push your code to GitHub.
2. Connect your GitHub repo to Vercel or Netlify for deployment.
3. Follow the prompts to set up continuous deployment.

Troubleshooting: Common Issues

• Code doesn’t run: Check your console for errors. AI-generated code can sometimes have syntax errors.
• Design looks off: Review your CSS. Use Figma to adjust and re-export assets if necessary.
• Deployment fails: Ensure your project settings are correct on Vercel or Netlify. Double-check your GitHub permissions.

What’s Next: Building on Your Foundation

Now that you have a basic web app, consider adding more features like user authentication or integrating a database. Tools like Firebase or Supabase can help you with that.

Conclusion: Start Here

If you're a solo founder or indie hacker looking to build your first web app, using AI tools can drastically cut down your development time. Start with the tools mentioned above, follow the outlined steps, and you’ll have a functioning web app in just 2 hours.

What We Actually Use

In our experience, we rely heavily on OpenAI for quick coding tasks, GitHub Copilot for real-time assistance, and Vercel for deployment. These tools have helped us ship faster without sacrificing quality.