Build a small tool you wish existed.
Start with a useful calculator, checklist, or tracker.
Why try this?
A coding agent can turn a clear, small brief into files you can run and inspect.
What to bring
A new project folder, one user need, and a concrete example of correct behaviour.
Your starting request
Build a simple local [tool] in this empty project folder. It should help [person] do [task]. A correct example is [input and expected output]. First explain the smallest useful version. Then build it, run the relevant checks, and show me how to try it. Ask before installing paid services, publishing, or accessing files outside this folder.
Illustrative result
This is an authored teaching example, not a live model response.
A working local prototype, instructions to run it, and a report of what was checked and what remains uncertain.
Then make it fit
I tried [input] and got [result]. I expected [result]. Reproduce the problem, fix it, and verify the same example.
Before you use it
Try normal, empty, and invalid inputs yourself. A generated app needs review before it handles real customer data or goes online.
What you are learning
The expected result is part of the brief. “Looks finished” is not the same as working.
Related Power of AI pages
Keep reading with Start here, everyday uses, the tool guide, the writing workshop, and sources and standards.