How to Write Code with AI: Build a Simple App in 2 Hours

If you’re a solo founder or indie hacker, you probably dream of getting your app idea off the ground in record time. The good news is that with AI coding tools, you can build a simple app in just two hours. But here's the catch: not all AI tools are created equal, and knowing which ones to use can save you both time and frustration. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the process and share the tools that actually work.

Prerequisites: What You Need Before You Start

Before diving in, make sure you have the following:

• Basic understanding of programming concepts: You don’t need to be a pro, but familiarity with coding basics will help.
• A computer with internet access: This is non-negotiable.
• Accounts with the AI tools listed below: Some offer free tiers, but others may require payment.

Step-by-Step Guide to Building Your App

1. Define Your App Idea

Spend a few minutes brainstorming what you want your app to do. Keep it simple—think of a to-do list or a weather app. The clearer your idea, the easier it will be to build.

2. Choose Your AI Coding Tools

Here’s a list of AI coding tools that can help you build your app quickly:

| Tool Name | Pricing | Best For | Limitations | Our Take | |--------------------|-----------------------------|--------------------------------|--------------------------------------|------------------------------| | GitHub Copilot | $10/mo | Code suggestions in IDE | Limited to supported languages | We use this for quick fixes. | | Replit | Free tier + $7/mo pro | Collaborative coding | Performance issues on large apps | Great for prototyping. | | Codeium | Free | Code generation | Lacks depth in complex scenarios | Best for simple scripts. | | Tabnine | Free tier + $12/mo pro | Autocompletion | Can be hit or miss with context | Useful for repetitive tasks. | | OpenAI Codex | $20/mo | Natural language to code | Requires API integration knowledge | We don’t use it because of cost. | | Ponic | $0-20/mo for indie scale | Low-code app building | Limited customization options | Good for quick MVPs. | | Sourcery | Free | Code refactoring | Limited to Python | We use this for Python only. | | AI Dungeon | Free | Interactive storytelling apps | Not focused on traditional coding | Fun, but not for serious apps.| | BuildAI | $10/mo | Building web apps | Requires design skills | We haven't tried it yet. | | Jupyter Notebook | Free | Data-driven applications | Not ideal for standalone apps | We use this for data projects. |

3. Start Coding

• Use the AI tool to generate code snippets: For example, if you're using GitHub Copilot, simply start typing a function, and it will suggest code.
• Modify the generated code: Ensure it aligns with your app's functionality. This is where your programming knowledge comes in handy.

4. Test Your App

After coding, run your app to see if it works as intended. Use tools like Replit or local servers to test functionality. Be prepared to debug—this is a normal part of the process.

5. Deploy Your App

Once you’re satisfied with the functioning of your app, deploy it. Use platforms like Heroku or Vercel for easy deployment options. Most of these platforms offer free tiers suitable for indie projects.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Code not compiling: Check for syntax errors or missing dependencies.
• App crashes on load: Use debugging tools to identify the issue.
• AI-generated code doesn’t work: Don’t hesitate to tweak the code manually or consult documentation.

What’s Next?

Once your simple app is up and running, consider these next steps:

• Gather user feedback: Share your app with friends or on social media to get insights.
• Iterate based on feedback: Use the feedback to improve the app's features.
• Explore scaling options: As your user base grows, consider investing in more robust tools or services.

Conclusion: Start Here

If you’re ready to dive in, my recommendation is to start with GitHub Copilot for coding assistance and Replit for collaborative development. These tools are beginner-friendly and can significantly speed up your development process. Remember, building an app with AI doesn't mean you won't encounter challenges—embrace them as part of the learning journey.