What You Will Learn

• Use Cursor Composer to generate and refine code with natural language
• Set up local projects, manage files, and run a development server
• Clone repos, use GitHub for version control, and push projects online
• Deploy web apps to Vercel and connect custom domains
• Build AI-powered apps (image generator, animated landing page, report visualiser)
• Securely manage API keys and integrate services like Firebase and Claude

Study Guide

Introduction

Welcome to the Video Course: Complete Guide to Cursor For Non-Coders (Vibe Coding 101). This course is designed to empower individuals without coding experience to build AI-powered applications using the Cursor code editor. By breaking down traditional barriers in software development, this guide will help you transform your ideas into functional applications through the innovative concept of "Vibe Coding." Whether you're an entrepreneur, a creative professional, or simply curious about AI, this course offers a comprehensive path to app development.

Democratisation of App Development

The core theme of this course is the democratisation of app development. By leveraging AI, non-coders can now create their own applications without needing to learn traditional programming languages. This approach is revolutionary, as it opens up opportunities for a broader audience to participate in the tech industry.

Practical Application:
Imagine wanting to create a simple app to manage your daily tasks. Instead of hiring a developer or learning to code, you can use Cursor to describe your app idea in natural language, and the AI will generate the necessary code.

Tip: Start with small projects to build confidence. As you become more familiar with the process, you'll be able to tackle more complex applications.

Introduction to "Vibe Coding"

Vibe Coding is a novel concept introduced by Riley Brown, where you communicate your app ideas to Cursor's composer in natural language. This method allows you to guide the AI in generating code without needing to understand the intricacies of programming.

Example:
Consider you want to create a weather app. You can simply type or speak, "Create an app that shows the current weather in my city," and the AI will handle the coding part.

Best Practice: Be clear and specific in your instructions to the AI. The more detailed your prompts, the better the AI can generate accurate code.

Cursor as an AI-Powered Development Environment

Cursor stands out as a powerful AI-powered development environment. Unlike web-based tools, Cursor hosts project files locally, offering more control and fewer roadblocks.

Practical Implementation:
When working on a project, you can save all your files on your local system, ensuring privacy and security. This setup also allows for offline access to your projects.

Tip: Regularly back up your local files to prevent data loss. Use external drives or cloud storage solutions for added security.

Iterative App Building through AI Interaction

The course emphasizes an iterative workflow where you describe your desired app functionality to the AI. The AI then generates, edits, and manages the codebase based on these natural language prompts.

Example:
Creating a simple game where a ball bounces around the screen. You start by describing the basic functionality, and then iteratively refine the app by specifying additional features like speed and direction.

Best Practice: Continuously test your app during development. This approach helps you identify and fix issues early in the process.

Accessibility of Key Developer Tools

Even as a non-coder, you'll gain access to essential developer tools such as file systems, codebases, GitHub for version control, and Vercel for deployment. These tools are integrated within the Cursor framework, making them accessible through natural language interaction with the AI agent.

Example:
Using GitHub, you can save your project online, collaborate with others, and even use existing code as a starting point for your own projects.

Tip: Familiarize yourself with GitHub's interface and functionalities. It can be a powerful tool for managing and collaborating on your projects.

Cursor Composer (The AI Agent)

The Cursor Composer is the central tool for vibe coding. It can create, edit, and delete files within a project, run terminal commands, and understand natural language instructions for coding tasks.

Example:
Suppose you want to create a new file for storing user data. You can instruct the Composer, "Create a new file named 'userData.json' and include fields for name, email, and age."

Best Practice: Use Composer's capabilities to automate repetitive tasks, saving time and reducing the risk of errors.

Project Setup in Cursor

Setting up a project in Cursor is straightforward. Users create new projects by selecting an empty folder on their local file system. The Composer is then activated within this project.

Step-by-Step Example:
1. Open Cursor and select "Open Project."
2. Choose or create an empty folder on your computer.
3. Activate the Composer by pressing command + I (on a Mac) and start describing your app idea.

Tip: Organize your project files logically within the folder to make navigation easier as your project grows.

"Codebase" Explained

The term codebase refers to the collection of programming files within a project. It's the foundation upon which your application is built.

Example:
In a weather app, your codebase might include files for fetching weather data, displaying it to the user, and handling user interactions.

Best Practice: Keep your codebase clean and well-organized. Use comments and meaningful file names to enhance readability and maintainability.

Iterative Refinement through Prompting

Clear and specific prompting is crucial to guide the AI effectively. Users can continuously refine the generated code by providing feedback and further instructions.

Example:
When creating a bouncing balls animation, you might start with a basic implementation and then progressively specify the desired behavior, such as speed, color, and bounce height.

Tip: Break down complex tasks into smaller, manageable prompts. This approach helps the AI understand and execute your instructions more accurately.

GitHub Integration for Non-Coders

Cursor allows users to interact with GitHub, enabling them to save their projects online and even clone existing repositories as starting points.

Example:
Clone a public GitHub repository by pasting its URL into Cursor. You can then modify the cloned project to suit your needs.

Best Practice: Regularly commit your changes to GitHub. This practice not only backs up your work but also provides a history of changes, making it easier to track progress and revert to previous versions if needed.

Deployment with Vercel

Deploying web applications created with Cursor to Vercel makes them accessible online with custom domain names.

Example:
After pushing your project code to a GitHub repository, import it into your Vercel account. Vercel will build and host the application, providing a live URL.

Tip: Consider purchasing a custom domain for your app. A personalized URL can enhance your app's professionalism and brand identity.

Building Example Apps

The course walks through the creation of three distinct AI-powered applications:

AI Image Generator:
This app demonstrates the ease of creating a simple app using AI to generate images based on text prompts. For instance, you can prompt the app with "a man riding a bike with an e.l.f hat on" to generate an image.

Animated Landing Page:
By leveraging existing code libraries from platforms like GitHub, you can create visually engaging web pages with animations, even without understanding the underlying code. An example is using the "anime.js" library.

AI-Powered Report Enhancer:
This app addresses a specific pain point by building an app that can take research reports and generate accompanying images and charts using AI, making the information more visually accessible. It utilizes the Claws API for chart editing.

Best Practice: Experiment with different types of applications to discover the full potential of AI-powered development. Each project will enhance your understanding and skills.

Importance of Short and Frequent AI Interactions

The instructor advises starting new composer chats frequently to reduce context and maintain optimal AI performance.

Example:
If you're working on a long project, periodically close the composer chat and start a new one to ensure the AI's responses remain relevant and accurate.

Tip: Keep your interactions concise. Shorter, more focused prompts can lead to better AI-generated results.

Managing Project Files

Users are introduced to the concept of project files and folders, managed visually within the Cursor interface. This visual management simplifies the organization and navigation of your codebase.

Example:
Organize your project files into folders based on functionality, such as separating front-end and back-end code, or grouping related components together.

Best Practice: Regularly review and clean up your project files. Remove unnecessary files and ensure everything is logically organized.

Local Development Server

Cursor can initiate a local development server, allowing users to preview their web applications in a web browser before deploying them.

Example:
Use Python's built-in HTTP server to preview your app locally. This setup allows you to test and refine your app before making it live.

Tip: Test your app on different devices and browsers to ensure it works correctly and looks good across various platforms.

Cloning GitHub Repositories

Non-coders can use Cursor to clone entire codebases from GitHub, providing them with pre-built templates and functionalities to start their projects.

Example:
Clone a Next.js template with pre-built features like voice recording and AI chat. This approach gives you a head start on your project, allowing you to focus on customization rather than starting from scratch.

Best Practice: Explore GitHub for open-source projects and templates. These resources can offer valuable insights and inspiration for your own projects.

Environment Variables for API Keys

The course touches upon the importance of securely managing API keys through environment variables. This aspect requires careful handling to avoid exposing sensitive information.

Example:
Store your API keys in a .env file and reference them in your code. This method keeps your keys secure and separate from your main codebase.

Tip: Never share your .env file publicly. Use .gitignore to exclude it from being pushed to GitHub.

Database and Authentication (Brief Introduction)

While the focus is on front-end development, the course hints at integrating databases and user authentication into more complex applications.

Example:
Use Google Firebase for user authentication and database management. This integration allows you to add user login features and store user data securely.

Best Practice: Start with basic authentication and database functionalities. As you become more comfortable, explore advanced features and integrations.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You've completed the Video Course: Complete Guide to Cursor For Non-Coders (Vibe Coding 101). By now, you should have a solid understanding of how to leverage AI and Cursor to build your own applications. Remember, the key to success is thoughtful application of these skills. Continue experimenting with different projects, and don't be afraid to push the boundaries of what's possible with AI-powered development. The future of app development is in your hands, and the possibilities are endless.

Podcast

There'll soon be a podcast available for this course.

Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome to the FAQ section for the 'Video Course: Complete Guide to Cursor For Non-Coders (Vibe Coding 101)'. This resource is designed to provide answers to common questions about using Cursor, an AI-powered coding tool, to build applications without traditional coding skills. Whether you're just starting or looking to deepen your understanding, this FAQ aims to support your journey in leveraging AI for app development.

1. What is "Vibe Coding" as mentioned in the video?

Vibe coding is described as the act of speaking or typing into Cursor Composer, which is an exceptionally intelligent AI tool for coding.
The idea is that even without traditional coding experience, you can communicate your app ideas to Cursor through natural language, and the AI will generate the necessary code.

2. What are the core functionalities of Cursor highlighted in the video?

Cursor is a downloadable code editor with built-in AI capabilities. Its core functionalities include:

• Code Generation: The "Composer" AI agent can create new code files based on user prompts in natural language.
• Code Editing: Composer can modify existing code files, expand on content, make it more concise, and even refactor code with user guidance through chat or voice input.
• File Management: Cursor allows users to create, delete, and move files and folders within their project's codebase.
• Terminal Integration: Composer can execute terminal commands directly within the Cursor environment.
• Version Control (Git/GitHub): Cursor facilitates the cloning of repositories from GitHub and pushing local project files to new or existing GitHub repositories, even for users with limited coding knowledge.
• Local Development Server: Cursor can initiate a local web server to preview HTML and JavaScript-based applications during development.
• Project Management: Users can create new projects from scratch or clone existing ones from platforms like GitHub.

3. How does Cursor differ from web-based AI coding tools like Bolt?

While both Cursor and web-based tools like Bolt aim to help non-coders build apps with AI, Cursor is a downloadable application where all project files are hosted locally on the user's computer.
The video argues that Cursor's "agent" is superior and offers more control, potentially leading to fewer roadblocks compared to web-based alternatives, despite the latter often having a simpler initial interface.

4. How can someone with no coding experience start a new project in Cursor?

To start a new project, users download and open Cursor. They then select "Open Project" and choose or create an empty folder on their computer.
By pressing command + I (on a Mac), they open the Composer window in agent mode, where they can begin describing their app idea in natural language to start code generation.

5. What is the role of "Composer" in Cursor?

Composer is the AI agent within Cursor. It acts as a collaborative programmer, understanding natural language prompts to create, edit, and manage code files.
Users can instruct Composer to perform various coding tasks by typing or speaking their requests, making it possible to build applications without writing code directly.

6. How can Cursor be used with GitHub, even for non-coders?

Cursor simplifies the interaction with GitHub through its "Clone Repo" and integrated agent functionalities. Users can clone public GitHub repositories by simply pasting the repository URL into Cursor.
Furthermore, they can instruct Composer to save their local project files to a new or existing GitHub repository using natural language commands, abstracting away the complexities of Git commands.

7. What is the process of deploying an app built with Cursor to the internet, as shown in the video?

The video demonstrates deployment using Vercel. After the project code is pushed to a GitHub repository, users can import the repository into their Vercel account (linked with GitHub).
Vercel then builds and hosts the application, providing a live URL. The video also shows how to connect a custom domain (purchased from a domain registrar like Namecheap) to the Vercel-hosted application by configuring DNS records.

8. What types of applications were built in the video using Cursor and "Vibe Coding"?

The video showcased the creation of several types of applications:

• AI Image Generator: A simple app allowing users to type a description and generate an image using an AI model (FAL.AI API was later integrated).
• Animated Landing Page: A website with engaging animations, built by remixing a library found on GitHub (anime.js).
• AI-Powered Research Visualisation Tool: An app designed to take text-based research reports (specifically from OpenAI's deep research feature) and allow users to generate and view visualisations (mermaid diagrams) and eventually export the reports as PDFs with the visuals. This app also included user authentication (via Google Sign-In) and a database (Google Firebase) for saving reports.

9. What are the options presented when opening a new Cursor window?

When opening a new Cursor window, users are presented with options to create a new project, open an existing project, or clone a repository.
The video primarily focuses on creating new projects and cloning repositories, which cater to both beginners and those looking to leverage existing codebases.

10. How does Composer facilitate iterative design and modification?

Composer allows users to iteratively modify designs by providing natural language prompts. For example, if a user wants to add more interactive elements or adjust animations, they can simply describe the desired changes.
This approach encourages experimentation and refinement, enabling users to progressively enhance their applications without deep technical knowledge.

11. How can you instruct Composer to discard existing files and start anew?

If you wish to abandon a current design and start fresh, you can instruct Composer to delete existing files and begin a new concept.
Simply use natural language commands to specify that you want to clear the current project and describe your new vision. This flexibility supports creative freedom and pivots in project direction.

12. How does Cursor facilitate viewing HTML files locally?

Cursor allows users to run a local development server, enabling them to view HTML files directly in their browser.
This is achieved through integrated terminal commands that initiate a server environment, providing a real-time preview of the application as it is developed.

13. What are environment variables, and why are they important?

Environment variables are dynamic values that can influence the behavior of running processes on a computer. They are crucial for storing sensitive information, such as API keys, securely.
In projects using services like Firebase or OpenAI, environment variables ensure that sensitive data is not hardcoded into the application, enhancing security and flexibility.

14. How do you clone a repository using Cursor?

To clone a repository in Cursor, select the "Clone Repo" option and provide the GitHub URL of the desired repository.
Cursor will download the files to a specified local folder, allowing you to work on the project offline. This process is straightforward and abstracts the complexities of Git commands, making it accessible to non-coders.

15. How can GitHub templates be utilized in Cursor projects?

GitHub templates, such as those for Next.js, provide pre-built features and structures that can be easily integrated into Cursor projects.
These templates often include essential components like routing, state management, and styling, enabling users to kickstart development with a robust foundation.

16. How are APIs integrated into Cursor projects?

APIs are integrated by incorporating code examples from API documentation into the Cursor project.
The process involves understanding the API's functionality, configuring necessary endpoints, and managing API keys securely. This integration extends the application's capabilities, allowing it to interact with external services and data sources.

17. Why is it important to keep API keys secure?

API keys are crucial for authenticating applications with external services. Keeping them secure prevents unauthorized access and misuse, which could lead to unexpected charges or data breaches.
In the video, API keys are stored in environment variables, ensuring they are not exposed in the codebase.

18. What steps are involved in troubleshooting API integration issues?

When facing API integration issues, it's essential to verify the API endpoint, check for correct authentication, and ensure the request format aligns with the API's requirements.
Debugging tools and logging can help identify errors, and consulting API documentation or support forums often provides solutions to common problems.

19. How is a static landing page deployed using Vercel?

To deploy a static landing page, push the project to a GitHub repository and connect it to a Vercel account.
Vercel will automatically build and host the application, providing a live URL. Users can further enhance their deployment by linking a custom domain, offering a professional web address.

20. How do you link a custom domain to a Vercel deployment?

Linking a custom domain involves purchasing a domain from a registrar like Namecheap and configuring DNS records to point to Vercel's servers.
This process allows the deployed application to be accessed via a personalized web address, enhancing brand identity and user trust.

21. What problem does the Deep Research Visualiser project aim to solve?

The Deep Research Visualiser addresses the challenge of transforming text-based research reports into visually engaging formats.
By integrating AI and visualization tools, users can generate diagrams and export comprehensive reports, enhancing the accessibility and impact of complex information.

22. What role does Firebase play in web applications like the Deep Research Visualiser?

Firebase serves as a backend infrastructure, providing services such as user authentication and a NoSQL database for data storage.
In the Deep Research Visualiser, Firebase enables secure user sign-in and efficient data management, supporting a seamless user experience.

23. How is Google Sign-In functionality integrated into an application?

Google Sign-In is integrated by configuring Firebase Authentication to support Google as a provider.
Once set up, users can log into the application using their Google accounts, simplifying the authentication process and enhancing user convenience.

24. How is user-generated content saved and accessed in Firebase?

User-generated content, such as research reports, is saved to Firebase's Firestore database.
Users can retrieve and view their saved data through the application's interface, enabling persistent storage and access to their work across sessions.

25. How are AI-generated diagrams used in the Deep Research Visualiser?

AI-generated diagrams, created using the Claude API, visualize research data in an intuitive format.
Users can select text and prompt the AI to generate corresponding diagrams, enhancing the interpretability and presentation of complex information.

26. How is the AI-powered chart generation refined over time?

The AI-powered chart generation is refined through iterative feedback and prompting.
Users can experiment with different inputs and configurations, gradually improving the accuracy and relevance of the generated diagrams based on user needs and feedback.

27. How is the export to PDF functionality implemented?

The export to PDF functionality is implemented by combining text and diagrams into a cohesive document format.
Users can generate a PDF that includes all essential elements of their research, facilitating easy sharing and archiving of their work.

28. What is the role of persistent navigation in an application?

Persistent navigation provides consistent access to key pages and features within an application.
It enhances user experience by ensuring easy exploration and interaction with the application's functionalities, reducing friction and improving accessibility.

29. What considerations are there when deploying a full-stack application?

Deploying a full-stack application involves managing both frontend and backend components, ensuring seamless integration and performance.
Environment variables play a crucial role in securely managing sensitive data, while hosting platforms like Vercel provide the necessary infrastructure for deployment.