How do I get the AI to write code that actually works?
Set up for success
To get working code, you need to give the AI a solid foundation. Specify the exact versions of libraries and frameworks you're using, because APIs change. Provide relevant existing code so the AI can match your style and imports. Break the task into small, testable pieces: ask for one function or component at a time. Request that the AI include error handling and edge cases. If the code fails, copy the error message and ask for a fix. Iterate until it runs.
- Specify exact versions (e.g., React 18.2, Next.js 14.1)
- Share existing code and file structure
- Ask for one small piece at a time
- Request error handling and edge cases
- Test each piece before moving on
Review and debug
AI-generated code can look correct but have subtle bugs. Always review it, especially for security and performance. Run it in your environment and check the console for errors. If something breaks, isolate the issue and ask the AI to explain what might be wrong. Sometimes the AI will suggest a fix that introduces new problems; be prepared to guide it. Over time, you'll learn which patterns the AI handles well and where it needs more supervision.
Common mistakes
- Trusting the AI's code without testing it yourself.
- Not providing enough context about your environment, leading to incompatible code.
- Giving up after one failed attempt instead of iterating with error messages.
