Getting Started

Create a Jotsu app, open the generated template, set up local development, customize it with an AI tool, and deploy your changes.

Jotsu helps you build real apps quickly.

Start with an app template, then shape it into the system you need.

Prerequisites

You need Node.js for local development.

Install the current LTS version from the Node.js download page.

You also need an AI coding tool you like.

Good options include:

Pick one tool to start.

You can change later.

If you do not have one yet, read Choosing An AI Tool.

1. Create An App

If you already have an app, skip this step.

Otherwise:

  1. Go to the dashboard.
  2. Give the app a name.
  3. Click Create App.

Jotsu creates the app and opens it for you.

This is your workspace.

It is also the foundation for your app's data, UI, workflows, and MCP capabilities.

2. Open The App

After the app is generated, the app page shows a link to the deployed app.

Click the deployed app link.

Sign in with your Jotsu credentials.

At first, it is still just the generated template.

That is expected.

It already has:

  • a database
  • a default workflow
  • an agent chat

Use the agent chat to interact with the app.

3. Create An API Key

Create an API key for local development.

Your local dev environment uses this key to authorize against the server.

Keep it handy, you will be prompted to enter it in the next step.

4. Customize The App

The generated template includes detailed instructions for AI tools.

Those instructions explain how to work with the app safely and effectively.

Open a terminal.

Run:

npx @jotsu/create-app

The command will guide you.

It will install everything you need.

When prompted, enter the API key you created.

Preview the app locally:

npm run dev

Then start your favorite AI tool.

Try something easy first.

For example, change the dashboard to describe what your app should do.

See the tutorials for specific examples.

5. Deploy

When your changes are ready, deploy them to the server.

Run:

npm run deploy

Your deployed app updates with your latest changes.

Checklist

  • Branding: pull from an existing site or create your own.
  • Overview: describe what the application will do - as detailed as possible - for reference by both AI tools and humans.