Your First Task
You've installed OneMillion Code and connected your account. Now let's see it in action by completing your first task.
Understanding the Interface
When you open OneMillion Code, you'll see:
- Mode Selector — Shows the current mode (starts in 💡 Idea mode)
- Chat Input — Where you type your messages
- Conversation Area — Where responses appear
- Toolbar — Settings, modes, and other options
Your First Message
Let's start simple. In the chat input, type:
Hi! I'm new here. What can you help me build?
Press Enter (or click the send button) to send your message.
What Happens Next
1M Code will respond with a friendly welcome and ask about your interests. This is the start of the Idea mode—helping you figure out what to build.
Understanding Modes
Notice the mode indicator shows 💡 Idea. This tells 1M Code you're in the early stages of your project, looking for problems to solve.
Each mode changes how 1M Code behaves:
| Mode | What 1M Code Does |
|---|---|
| 💡 Idea | Helps you find problems and validate ideas |
| 📝 Spec | Helps you define features and scope |
| 🏗️ Plan | Helps you design architecture |
| 💻 Build | Writes code and implements features |
| 🧪 Test | Helps you test and find bugs |
| 🔒 Guard | Scans for security issues |
| 🚀 Ship | Helps you deploy to production |
| 📣 Sell | Helps with marketing and user acquisition |
You don't need to switch modes manually right now—just be aware they exist.
Try a Real Prompt
Now let's try something more substantial. Type:
I want to build a simple todo list app. What questions should I ask myself before starting?
1M Code will walk you through important questions like:
- Who is this for?
- What problem does it solve?
- What's the simplest version that could work?
This is the Idea mode in action—guiding you to think before you build.
The Approval System
Sometimes 1M Code will ask for your approval before taking action. You'll see buttons like:
- Approve — Let 1M Code proceed
- Reject — Stop and discuss alternatives
- Edit — Modify the suggested action
This keeps you in control. 1M Code won't make changes without your permission.
Key Concepts
Ask vs. Do
1M Code can either:
- Answer questions — Explain concepts, give advice, help you think
- Take actions — Write code, create files, run commands
In early modes (Idea, Spec), it focuses more on questions. In later modes (Build, Ship), it takes more actions.
Context Matters
1M Code remembers your conversation. You can say things like:
- "Actually, let's make it for students instead"
- "What did you mean by that?"
- "Can you explain that simpler?"
It understands context and adjusts accordingly.
Asking for Help
At any point, you can ask:
- "I'm confused, can you explain this differently?"
- "What should I do next?"
- "I'm stuck, help!"
1M Code is designed for beginners. Don't be afraid to ask "dumb" questions—there aren't any.
Your First Real Conversation
Here's an example conversation to try:
You: I have an idea for an app that helps people track their water intake. Is this a good idea?
1M Code: Great question! Let me help you validate this idea. First, a few questions...
You: I want to keep it really simple. Just logging glasses of water.
1M Code: Perfect—simplicity is key! Here's how we could scope this...
You: I've never coded before. Can I really build this?
1M Code: Absolutely! With AI assistance, you can build this in a few days. Let me show you...
What's Next?
You've completed your first interaction with OneMillion Code. Here's what to do next:
If You're in a Cohort
Your Captain will guide you through the structured 2.5-week journey. Follow their instructions and use the modes as directed.
If You're Exploring
Feel free to continue the conversation! Try:
- Describe your idea (or let 1M Code help you find one)
- Switch to 📝 Spec mode when you're ready to define features
- Follow the 8-step journey at your own pace
Ready for the Journey?
Now you understand the basics. Let's dive into the full 8-step journey that will take you from idea to shipped product:
Start The Journey →
A walkthrough video showing your first task is in production. Check back soon or join our Discord for updates.