Creating software tools can seem daunting, especially with no prior development experience. However, with the help of AI, even beginners can bring their ideas to life. Here’s my story of how I developed two productivity tools — Side Note, a Chrome plugin, and Bubble Time, an iOS app — using ChatGPT. I’ll also share some tips on how you can leverage AI-generated code to create your own projects.
1. Side Note — A Chrome Plugin
The Idea
Side Note is a Chrome plugin that allows users to add notes directly on their browser. The idea came from my need to jot down quick thoughts while browsing without switching to another app.
Using ChatGPT to Develop Side Note
Step 1: Define the Scope
Clearly outline what you want your tool to do. I started by listing features like adding, editing, and saving notes.
Step 2: Ask Specific Questions
I asked ChatGPT-specific questions about creating Chrome extensions. For example, how to create a manifest file and add basic functionality.
Step 3: Code in Small Chunks
ChatGPT helped me by providing code snippets one step at a time. For example, I used HTML, CSS, javascript. Usually, I start from how it looks — building the UI elements in HTML and CSS and then writing javascript to connect the parts and how data moves around.
Step 4: Test and Iterate
After implementing each feature, I tested it. If something didn’t work, I asked ChatGPT for troubleshooting tips.
Key Takeaway
Tip: Break down your project into small, manageable tasks. Use AI to guide you step-by-step and troubleshoot issues as they arise.
2. Bubble Time — An iOS App
The Idea
Bubble Time is an iOS app that acts as a focus and task timer with customizable bubbles. The concept was to make time management fun and interactive.
Using ChatGPT to Develop Bubble Time
Step 0: Be Familiar with Swift and XCode
Writing IOS Apps requires knowledge of the language Swift and development tool. Before you get started, I recommend checking SwiftUI Tutorial and Youtube to get a sense of how it works in general, and familiar with the buttons.
Step 1: Sketch the Design
I sketched a basic design of the app, outlining the user interface and core functionalities.
Step 2: Learn the Basics
I asked ChatGPT to explain basic concepts of Swift and iOS development. This helped me understand the structure of the code.
Step 3: Build Core Features
ChatGPT provided code snippets for essential features, such as creating a timer and customizing bubble shapes. Be careful to create a list of things
Step 4: Customize and Enhance
With the core features in place, I customized the app’s look and feel. ChatGPT helped with more advanced features, like animations and user settings.
Key Takeaway
Tip: Use AI to get explanations and code snippets for specific tasks. Gradually build up your app by integrating these snippets and customizing them to fit your needs.
Conclusion
Developing Side Note and Bubble Time with no development background was a challenging but rewarding experience. Here are some final tips for beginners:
- Start Small: Break your project into smaller tasks and tackle them one by one.
- Leverage AI: Use AI tools like ChatGPT to get code snippets, explanations, and troubleshooting tips.
- Learn by Doing: Implement what you learn immediately. Experiment and make mistakes — they’re part of the learning process.
- Stay Curious: Keep asking questions and exploring new features and functionalities.
With determination and the right tools, you too can create amazing apps and plugins, even with zero development background. Feel free to check out all the products we created and subscribe to our email list to stay connected! If you are building your own and want to get more exposure, we are building a directory for productivity tools too.
Happy coding!
