GUIDE & INSIGHT

Prototype a small web app with a clear test plan

By Chad ·

Outcome: a narrow prototype and a list of checks before inviting users. Start with sample data and keep production secrets out of prompts.

1. Define one useful flow

Help me specify a prototype for [user] who needs to [task]. Define the smallest useful flow, required screens, sample data and acceptance criteria. List assumptions and risks before suggesting implementation.

2. Choose a candidate and compare constraints

Check code export, supported platforms, deployment options, backend requirements and usage limits. Make sure you can retrieve your work if you leave the service.

Candidate tools for this step

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Claude

Anthropic’s assistant for writing, coding, web research and working with files and connected tools.

Free available. Pro: $20/month or $200 billed annually. Max: from $100/month. Usage limits apply; taxes are extra.

Details →
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Cursor

An AI coding workspace for exploring repositories, planning changes and reviewing agent edits.

Hobby: free. Pro: $20/month. Teams Standard: $40/user/month. On-demand model usage and taxes can add costs.

Details →

Rork

Build native iPhone, Android and web apps from prompts, with GitHub imports and backend integrations.

Free: design only. Pro: $20/month for 100 credits. Max: from $200/month for 1,000 credits. India-only Start: ₹649/month for 40 credits. Cloud usage is…

Details →

3. Build in small steps

Implement and test one flow at a time. Keep a versioned copy of the code. Review generated changes and confirm that dependencies come from legitimate sources.

Review this flow against its acceptance criteria. List input-validation, authentication, authorization, accessibility and error-handling checks. Explain what remains untested. Do not claim tests passed unless you ran them.

4. Test before sharing

Test mobile layouts, keyboard navigation, invalid inputs and recovery after errors. Review data access and privacy before using real user information. Generated code requires human review.

Before you pay

Separate builder subscription fees from hosting, database, model/API usage and other services. Compare the same billing period and usage assumptions.