3 min read
Project Kickoff
Use this as your first prompt when starting a new project.
The Template
Copy, fill in the brackets, paste into Claude:
I want to build [type of app] that [main thing it does].
Platform: [macOS / iOS / web]
When you [main interaction], it should [main result].
Key features:
- [Feature 1]
- [Feature 2]
- [Feature 3 if applicable]
Keep it simple to start. We can add more later.Examples
Menu Bar App
I want to build a macOS menu bar app that shows my next calendar event.
Platform: macOS
When you click the menu bar icon, it should show a small popover with:
- The event name
- Time until it starts
- A button to open the event in Calendar
Key features:
- Menu bar presence with icon
- Shows next event from Apple Calendar
- Updates automatically
Keep it simple to start. We can add more later.iOS App
I want to build an iOS app for tracking daily water intake.
Platform: iOS
When you open the app, it should show today's water intake and let you quickly add glasses.
Key features:
- Today view showing glasses consumed vs. goal
- Quick-add button (+1 glass)
- Simple history view
Keep it simple to start. We can add more later.Simple Utility
I want to build a macOS app that converts colors between formats.
Platform: macOS
When you paste a color (hex, RGB, or HSL), it should show the color and all format conversions.
Key features:
- Input field for pasting colors
- Visual preview of the color
- Copy buttons for each format
Keep it simple to start. We can add more later.Tips
- Start with the outcome — What does the user see and do?
- Be specific about the main interaction — “When you X, it should Y”
- Limit initial features — 3 is usually enough to start
- Say “keep it simple” — Explicitly ask for simplicity
- Let Claude ask questions — You don’t need to specify everything upfront
After the First Response
Claude will likely:
- Create the basic project structure
- Ask clarifying questions
- Show you initial code
From there, iterate:
- “Now add [next feature]”
- “The [element] should [adjustment]”
- “Can you make [improvement]”
The project develops through conversation.