A Non-Coder’s Guide to Building Apps: Tips, Mistakes, and Lessons

For years, building an app felt like something completely out of reach for someone like me. No coding background, no technical expertise—just a lot of ideas and a desire to bring them to life. Before discovering AI-powered tools, I never imagined this was something I could take on myself.

But then I saw what others were creating. Twitter threads, YouTube videos, and demos of tangible projects built by people using AI tools. It clicked: this wasn’t impossible. With the right mindset and willingness to explore, I could do it too. A month later, here I am, actively building an app—and learning so much along the way. Here’s what I wish I knew before starting.

Getting Started

Choosing the Right Tool

When I began, I chose Windsurf AI because of its features: the ability to edit documents directly, automate terminal commands, and quickly create functional prototypes. At that time, Windsurf had the edge over other platforms. But the landscape is constantly evolving. Tools like Cursor are rapidly improving, and if I were starting today, I’d spend more time exploring which platform best matches my working style and project needs.

The takeaway? Test small ideas before committing to a platform. Build a simple app or prototype to get a feel for the tool’s capabilities before diving into a bigger project. Trust me—it’ll save you from feeling stuck down the line.

The First Step

Starting was all about having an idea. I used ChatGPT to help me flesh it out and create a product requirements document (PRD). Here’s a simple prompt to guide your brainstorming:

"I want to build an app that [your idea]. Ask me questions to help outline the purpose, target audience, core features, and technical requirements."

This process gave me clarity and a roadmap to move forward.

What I’d Do Differently

Looking back, I’d have mapped out my development process more thoroughly. For example, I’d think through the first set of required pages and the smaller, less obvious sub-needs. Starting with a complete map of the UI/UX needs would’ve helped me set clearer timelines and manage expectations.

I’d also recommend beginning with a simpler project. My app is complex, and while I’m committed, it’s not the starting point I’d suggest for anyone new to app-building.

Lessons Learned

Patience is Key

Building with AI has its moments of magic, but it also has its frustrations. Sometimes, the capabilities exceed expectations. Other times, they feel years behind where you’d hope they’d be. Progress isn’t linear, and patience is non-negotiable.

Save Your Work—Constantly

This one can’t be overstated. Early on, I lost hours of work because I wasn’t saving to GitHub. Now, I save 5+ times a day to ensure my progress isn’t lost. Save after every significant update. It’s a habit that will save you endless headaches.

Mistakes to Avoid

Overcomplicating the Idea

Start small. It’s easy to let your idea grow and grow as you build, but sticking to a minimum viable product (MVP) will help you stay focused. Get something live to test—it doesn’t need to be perfect. I’ve had to remind myself: not everything needs to happen in version one.

Tips for Success

Just Jump In

If you’re even a little curious, give it a try. Spend 30 minutes exploring an AI tool to see if it excites you. If it clicks, you’ll find yourself energized and unable to stop building.

Learn by Doing

The more time you spend with AI, the better you’ll get at communicating with it. You’ll figure out how to phrase prompts, troubleshoot issues, and get clearer outputs. Tools like ChatGPT are great sidekicks to help refine ideas or prompts when things aren’t working.

Reflections and Takeaways

This experience has completely shifted my perspective on building apps. It’s no longer a barrier of expensive resources or advanced skills. If you have a computer, an idea, and persistence, it’s possible.

Feeling intimidated? Just start small. Spend a few minutes exploring and let yourself get curious. You’ll know quickly whether this is something worth pursuing.

DISCLAIMER: This content does not contain business, investment, tax, legal, financial or other advice & is not intended to be used in this way. It includes the opinions of the author & is strictly for informational purposes. Please do your own research.