How to Build a Web App in 5 Steps

A simple guide to creating functional web applications without needing to be a professional developer.

Step 1: Plan Your Project with ChatGPT

Go to ChatGPT and create a Product Requirements Document (PRD) for your project.

What to say:

"I need you to ask me questions for this product requirement document"

ChatGPT will guide you through gathering all your specifications. Be specific about features you need. For example, if you're building a transitional home website, you might want an application tracking system where prospects can log in, check their status, and upload documents. Include all these details in your PRD.

Why this matters: A clear PRD ensures you know exactly what you're building before you start coding.

Step 2: Build Your Site with Claude

Head over to Claude.ai and start a new project.

What to do:

  • Upload your PRD from Step 1

  • Upload screenshots of websites you like for design inspiration

  • Ask Claude to write the HTML files based on your requirements and design inspiration

Claude will generate the code for your web app, combining your specifications with the visual style you want.

Pro tip: Be specific about what you want Claude to create. The more detail you provide, the better your results.

Step 3: Store Your Code on GitHub

Create a GitHub account if you don't have one. GitHub is where your code will live.

What to do:

  • Create a new repository (repo) on GitHub

  • Upload the code files Claude created

  • Get a live link to test your web app functionality

Why GitHub: It's the industry standard for storing code, tracking changes, and makes deployment to hosting platforms seamless.

Step 4: Add User Authentication with Supabase

Create an account on Supabase for handling user profiles, login, and authentication.

What to do:

  • Set up your Supabase project

  • Configure user authentication settings

  • Connect Supabase to your GitHub repository using the built-in integration

What this enables: Users can create accounts, log in securely, and access personalized features like application tracking or profile dashboards.

Step 5: Deploy Your Site with Vercel

Use Vercel to host your website and make it live on the internet.

What to do:

  • Create a Vercel account

  • Connect Vercel directly to your GitHub repository

  • Deploy with one click

Why Vercel: It integrates seamlessly with GitHub, so every time you update your code, your live site automatically updates too.

You're Done!

You now have a fully functional web app with user authentication, hosted live on the internet. From here, you can continue iterating, adding features, and improving your site based on user feedback.

Next steps:

  • Test all your features thoroughly

  • Share your site with potential users

  • Gather feedback and make improvements

  • Build your next project!