How to build MVPs with AI

Key Concepts:

• MVP (Minimum Viable Product)
• Perplexity AI (AI-powered search engine)
• Bolt AI (AI-powered development tool)
• Cursor (Code editor)
• Supabase (Backend-as-a-Service platform)
• Clerk (Authentication service)
• GitHub repository
• Dashboard
• Backend
• Authentication

Step-by-Step Playbook for Building AI MVPs (for Beginners):

1. Initial Research and Guidance with Perplexity AI:

   • The first step is to use Perplexity AI as a primary research tool. The speaker recommends Perplexity due to its access to up-to-date information and comprehensive documentation.
   • The user should explicitly state their beginner status ("complete noob") to Perplexity. This prompts the AI to provide detailed, step-by-step instructions.
   • Perplexity will generate a long document with references that the user can follow.

2. MVP Development with Bolt AI:

   • The next step involves using Bolt AI to build the MVP incrementally.
   • Implement the first instruction provided by Perplexity (e.g., setting up the dashboard, importing the project, cloning a GitHub repository).
   • If errors occur, copy and paste the error message back into Bolt AI for debugging and solutions.
   • Continue prompting Bolt AI and addressing errors until a visually appealing MVP with core functionality is achieved.

3. Refinement and Backend Integration with Cursor:

   • Download the project from Bolt AI and import it into Cursor, a code editor.
   • Use Cursor to integrate backend services like Supabase. Cursor can write the necessary scripts to connect to the backend.
   • Implement authentication using Clerk. Clerk offers a plug-and-play solution for authentication, simplifying the process.
   • Perplexity AI can provide guidance and solutions for each step within Cursor.

4. Iterative Questioning and Problem Solving:

   • Throughout the entire process, continuously ask Perplexity AI questions for clarification and solutions.
   • This iterative approach allows beginners to overcome challenges and learn as they build.

Tools and Technologies:

• Perplexity AI: Used for research, documentation, and step-by-step guidance. It provides detailed instructions tailored to beginners.
• Bolt AI: Used for rapid MVP development. It helps implement features and debug errors.
• Cursor: Used for refining the MVP and integrating backend services. It can write scripts for connecting to Supabase and Clerk.
• Supabase: A backend-as-a-service platform used for data storage and management.
• Clerk: An authentication service that simplifies user authentication.

Key Arguments and Perspectives:

• AI-Assisted Development: The speaker advocates for using AI tools like Perplexity and Bolt to accelerate the MVP development process, especially for beginners.
• Iterative Learning: The process emphasizes continuous learning and problem-solving through interaction with AI tools.
• Backend Abstraction: Using services like Supabase and Clerk simplifies backend development, allowing beginners to focus on the frontend and core functionality.

Notable Quotes:

• "I would recommend everyone to use Perplexity... it's what I did."
• "Just tell it you're a complete noob and absolutely don't know how to do anything and it'll give you really detailed step by step."
• "Perplexity is a great starting point, Bolt is a great way to make the MVP, and then you move to Cursor to dial in the details."

Synthesis/Conclusion:

The playbook outlines a practical approach for beginners to build AI MVPs using a combination of AI-powered tools and backend services. By leveraging Perplexity AI for guidance, Bolt AI for rapid prototyping, and Cursor for refinement and backend integration, individuals with limited experience can create functional MVPs efficiently. The key is to embrace an iterative learning process, continuously asking questions and seeking solutions from AI tools.