Building Apps with AI: Daily Joke App Tutorial

Introduction

• AI is transforming software development.
• Focus on planning and building a simple daily joke app using AI.
• Tools and best practices for leveraging AI in coding.

Tools Overview

• Cursor: Main code editor used in the tutorial.
• Visual Studio Code + GitHub CoPilot: Alternative with AI features.
• Windsurf: Popular AI code editor.
• V0 Bolt and Love Bowl: Good for prototyping and trying out ideas.
• Figma: For visual design before implementation.
• Next.js: Full-stack framework, simplifies app development.
• Encore (sponsor): Used for creating a backend application; integrates well with AI tools.

App Development Process

• Idea: Daily joke app with a new joke every day.
• Prototyping and Planning: Use of tools like VZ for sketching ideas; PRD (Product Requirements Document) sometimes used but not always necessary.
• Setting Up Next.js: Manual setup recommended to avoid AI adding unwanted elements.

AI Integration

• Cursor's AI Functions:
  • Scaffold app structure using PRD.
  • Use AI for iterative development and edits.
  • Agent mode in Cursor decides if code edits or chat responses are needed.
• Cursor Rules: Define coding conventions and guide AI decisions.
• Handling Errors and Testing: Frequent commits recommended; Git for version control.

Backend with Encore

• Encore's Role:
  • Easier backend setup with services like Express.
  • Database provisioning and API endpoints.
  • Background tasks (cron jobs) management.
• Integration with Next.js: Used as the main app; backend app handles data fetching and storage.

Developing and Testing Features

• Joke API Endpoint: Implemented in Encore; handles joke retrieval and storage.
• Cron Job: Automates daily joke updates in the database.
• Frontend Integration: Make API calls from Next.js to fetch jokes.

Deployment and Best Practices

• Code Deployment: Options for hosting with Encore or Vercel.
• Commit Often: Keep track of changes and potential rollbacks.
• Use of MCP Servers: Emerging technology for allowing AI to execute tasks securely.
• Separate Chats for Different Tasks: Prevents confusion in AI models.

Conclusion

• AI enhances productivity and capabilities in app development.
• Encouraged to explore tools and strategies discussed for effective AI integration in coding projects.