Key Points
- Select an AI chatbot that matches your comfort level with speed vs reasoning ability.
- Provide exhaustive, specific prompts to guide the model toward your vision.
- Expect multiple refinement cycles; iteration is the core of vibe coding.
- Ask for technical guidance on format, scale, and bug testing, especially HTML for simple apps.
- Give detailed error feedback to help the chatbot produce accurate fixes.
- Stay flexible and consider alternative suggestions when the model hits limits.
- If progress stalls, start a new chat to reset context and apply learned insights.
Understanding Your Chatbot
Vibe coding begins with selecting an AI chatbot. Models differ in speed and reasoning ability; faster models like Gemini 2.5 Flash often require more precise prompts and manual code edits, while more advanced “thinking” models such as Gemini 3 Pro tend to generate complete code blocks automatically. Knowing each model’s limitations and capabilities helps users choose the right tool for their comfort level.
Crafting Specific Prompts
Clear, detailed prompts are essential. When the initial idea is fully described, the chatbot can produce a closer match to the envisioned app. Broad or vague prompts give the AI more freedom but may result in less predictable outcomes. Users are encouraged to include every desired feature in the first request and to refine the prompt iteratively.
Iterative Development
Most apps are not finished after one or two prompts. The process involves repeated cycles of asking the chatbot for refinements, suggestions, or alternative implementations. Requesting multiple improvement ideas can uncover better solutions and accelerate progress.
Managing Technical Details
Even non‑coders must address technical considerations. For simple web apps, requesting HTML output—preferably a single page—keeps the workflow straightforward. Users should ask the chatbot about the best format for their project, the feasible scale of the app, and how to test for bugs. Detailed feedback on errors, rather than generic statements, leads to more accurate fixes.
Maintaining an Open Mind
Because AI capabilities are broad, staying open to unexpected approaches is valuable. If a request exceeds the model’s capacity, the chatbot can suggest alternative methods. Embracing these suggestions can lead to creative outcomes that differ from the original plan.
When to Restart
If iterations drift far from the desired result, starting a new chat may be beneficial. A fresh conversation clears the model’s memory of previous missteps and allows users to apply lessons learned without lingering confusion. Restarting can reinvigorate the creative flow and improve focus on successful strategies.
Source: cnet.com