> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.calstudio.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Quickstart Guide

> Create your first custom AI app in 5 minutes

<Info>
  This guide will walk you through creating your first custom AI app on CalStudio. You'll learn how to configure, customize, and deploy a fully functional AI application without writing any code.
</Info>

## Prerequisites

Before you begin, make sure you have:

* A CalStudio account ([Sign up free](https://calstudio.com/signup))
* An idea for your AI app (customer support bot, educational tutor, content generator, etc.)

## Step 1: Access Your Dashboard

1. Navigate to [CalStudio.com](https://calstudio.com/login)
2. Log in with your credentials
3. You'll be directed to your [dashboard](https://calstudio.com/dashboard) where you can manage all your AI apps

## Step 2: Create Your AI App

### Select Your AI Model

1. Click the **"Create App"** button on your dashboard
2. Choose from our selection of cutting-edge AI models:
   * **OpenAI** (GPT-4, GPT-3.5)
   * **Anthropic** (Claude)
   * **Meta** (Llama)
   * **Google** (Gemini)

<Note>
  No API keys required! CalStudio handles all the technical complexity for you.
</Note>

## Step 3: Configure Your App

The app builder interface is divided into two sections:

* **Configuration Panel** (left): Multiple tabs for customizing your app
* **Live Preview** (right): See your changes in real-time

### Basic Configuration

In the **Basics** tab, set up your app's core functionality:

1. **App Identity**
   * Upload a logo for brand recognition
   * Set your app name (internal identifier)
   * Choose a display name (what users will see)
   * Write a compelling description

2. **AI Configuration**
   * Select your specific model version (e.g., GPT-4 Turbo)
   * Define the AI's behavior with a clear system prompt
   * Set a welcoming message for first-time users

3. **Access Control**
   * Toggle login requirements
   * Configure user authentication settings

<Tip>
  Your system prompt is crucial! Be specific about what your AI should and shouldn't do. For example: "You are a friendly customer support agent for an e-commerce store. Always be helpful, professional, and try to resolve issues quickly."
</Tip>

### Monetization Setup (Optional)

Navigate to the **Credits** tab to configure how users access your app:

1. **Free Tier Settings**
   * Set number of free messages per user
   * Enable monthly reset for recurring free access

2. **Payment Options** (if monetizing)
   * **One-time Payments**: Users purchase message credits
   * **Subscription Model**: Monthly recurring access

3. **Pricing Configuration**
   * Select your currency (USD, EUR, GBP, etc.)
   * Set your pricing structure
   * Example: $5 for 50 messages, $10 for 150 messages

<Info>
  CalStudio uses Stripe for secure payment processing. Payments are available globally with support for multiple currencies.
</Info>

## Step 4: Launch Your App

1. Review your configuration in the live preview
2. Click the **"Create App"** button in the top-right corner
3. Your AI app will be instantly deployed with a unique URL

<Check>
  Congratulations! Your custom AI app is now live and ready to use. Share the URL with your users or embed it on your website.
</Check>

## What's Next?

Now that you've created your first AI app, explore these advanced features:

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="Custom Domain" icon="globe" href="/account/custom-domain">
    Use your own domain for professional branding
  </Card>

  <Card title="WhatsApp Integration" icon="whatsapp" href="/account/whatsApp-integration">
    Connect your AI to WhatsApp for messaging
  </Card>

  <Card title="Webhooks" icon="webhook" href="/account/webhooks">
    Integrate with external services and APIs
  </Card>

  <Card title="API Access" icon="code" href="/api-reference/introduction">
    Programmatically manage your AI apps
  </Card>
</CardGroup>

## Need Help?

* Join our [Discord community](https://discord.gg/FnktGy3mkV) to connect with other creators
* Contact [support@calstudio.com](mailto:support@calstudio.com) for technical assistance
* Check our [changelog](https://pmfm.featurebase.app/changelog) for the latest features