The build guide
One small project.
A useful first step.
Use these three steps to turn an idea into something you can share.
Download a project brief ↓
01
Choose a problem.
Pick one person, one task and one useful change.
Write a short brief
- Who is it for? Choose someone you can talk to.
- What will you make? Keep the first version small.
- How will AI help? Decide what needs human checking.
- How will you test it? Name a clear sign that it works.
Example: a club event checklist. Make one task list and ask an organiser to try it.
02
Set up your workspace.
Keep your files clear and your changes easy to follow.
Files, AI and GitHub
- Write a README that explains what the project does and how to run it.
- Keep source files, tests and notes in separate folders.
- Give AI a small task. Review and test each change.
- Use GitHub to save your history and review work with others.
- Keep API keys and private data out of your repository.
03
Test it. Share it.
Show what works and explain the limits.
Before your demonstration
- Try normal, missing and awkward inputs.
- For research, compare with a known case or baseline.
- For a website, choose hosting and connect a domain if useful.
- Check API use, hosting costs and any data or material charges.
- Explain the problem, result, evidence and next step.
When do we present?
End of Michaelmas: everyone on the workshop programme presents.
Year-end showcase: teams submit pitches. Selected teams present to peers and partners.
