The rise of powerful AI chatbots is changing how software is made. While traditional coding requires years of training, “vibe coding” — building apps by simply describing them to an AI — is becoming increasingly viable. This approach lets non-coders create functional web applications with minimal technical knowledge, though it’s not without its challenges.
This guide distills six core lessons learned from building real apps (event calendars, image galleries, retro game recreations) using only natural language prompts. The key is understanding how AI thinks, and working with its limitations, not against them.
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The Chatbot Matters: Model Choice Is Critical
Not all AI models are equal. Faster, less “intelligent” models require more precise prompting and manual intervention. For example, Gemini 2.5 Flash demands detailed instructions to match the output of the more advanced Gemini 3 Pro. The former may only provide snippets of code, forcing you to copy-paste them into a larger project, while the latter can generate entire files at once.
If you’re a beginner, prioritize models designed for reasoning and complex tasks. They’ll handle more of the technical heavy lifting, but if you’re comfortable with code edits, nearly any model can work with clear instructions. Experimentation is key to finding what suits your skill level.
Be Hyper-Specific In Your Prompts
Vague requests yield vague results. The more detail you provide upfront, the better the AI understands your vision. Exhaustive prompts should include every feature, design element, and interaction you want.
Alternatively, embrace ambiguity. Give the AI creative freedom, but be prepared for unexpected outcomes. This method can lead to novel solutions, but requires more iteration. The best approach depends on how tightly controlled you want the final product to be.
Iteration Is The Core Process
First drafts rarely work perfectly. Expect to refine your app through multiple prompts. Ask the AI for suggestions when stuck, and don’t hesitate to solicit five different approaches to a problem.
Vibe coding is an iterative loop: describe, refine, test, repeat. It’s similar to how a designer works with a client: constant revision until the desired result is achieved.
Technical Awareness Is Still Necessary
Even non-coders need basic technical knowledge. Consider these points:
- Format: HTML is ideal for simple web apps. Request a single HTML file to avoid file management headaches, but be aware that large files can overwhelm the AI’s memory.
- Scale: The AI has limitations. It won’t build the next Facebook, but a Winamp-style audio visualizer is within reach. Ask about feasibility if unsure.
- Debugging: AI-generated code isn’t always flawless. Test thoroughly and provide specific bug reports. “This doesn’t work” is useless; “The button on line 23 doesn’t trigger the correct function” is effective.
Maintain An Open Mind
Expect unexpected results. AI may suggest solutions you hadn’t considered, or encounter limitations you didn’t anticipate. Don’t get fixated on a single approach.
If the AI struggles, ask for alternatives. Embrace the possibility that the final product will deviate from your initial vision. The unexpected can lead to better outcomes.
Sometimes, Starting Over Is Best
If you’ve spent hours refining a project with no progress, consider scrapping it and beginning anew. A fresh chat prevents the AI from being confused by prior errors.
A clean slate also allows you to reset. You may have identified ineffective prompts or design flaws that you can avoid in the next iteration. Starting over isn’t failure, it’s optimization.
Vibe coding isn’t about replacing developers, but empowering non-coders to bring their ideas to life. It’s a new tool, and like any tool, it works best when you understand its strengths and weaknesses.
