Spec Coding
Define your specifications first.
Let AI build production-ready code.
Spec coding is a revolutionary development methodology where you document your requirements, user experience, and design before writing a single line of code. AI then transforms your specifications into a complete, working application.
What is Spec Coding?
Spec coding is a specification-first approach to software development. Instead of jumping straight into code, you first define what you want to build through structured specifications. AI then uses these specs to generate code that precisely matches your requirements.
Vibe Coding
- Start coding immediately
- Requirements evolve during development
- Frequent pivots and rewrites
- AI guesses your intentions
Spec Coding
- Define specifications upfront
- Clear requirements from day one
- Predictable, iterative development
- AI knows exactly what to build
How Spec Coding Works
A structured approach to building software with AI
Write Your Project Brief
Start by describing your project at a high level. What problem does it solve? Who is it for? What are the core features? Your AI co-founder helps you refine and structure your ideas into a clear, actionable brief.
"A task management app for remote teams with real-time collaboration, Slack integration, and automated progress reports..."Define User Experience
Map out user flows, interactions, and the overall experience you want to create. Define how users will navigate your app, what actions they'll take, and what outcomes they'll achieve. The AI uses these UX specs to structure your application.
User can create a task → assign team members → set deadlines → receive notifications → mark completeSpecify Design Requirements
Document your visual preferences, brand guidelines, and design system. Include color palettes, typography, component styles, and layout preferences. AI uses these design specs to generate consistent, beautiful interfaces.
Minimal design, dark mode, rounded corners, subtle shadows, Inter font family...AI Generates Your Code
With your specifications complete, AI has everything it needs to generate production-ready code. Every component, every interaction, every design decision is informed by your specs. The result? Code that matches your vision exactly.
Why Spec Coding?
The benefits of specification-driven AI development
Precise Output
AI generates code that matches your exact requirements. No guessing, no misinterpretation.
Faster Development
Clear specs mean fewer iterations and revisions. Build the right thing the first time.
Easy Iterations
Update your specs, regenerate code. Changes are predictable and consistent.
Better Architecture
Thinking through specs first leads to better structured, more maintainable code.
Reduced Risk
Validate your ideas in specifications before investing time in development.
Living Documentation
Your specs become documentation that stays in sync with your actual code.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about spec coding
What exactly is spec coding?
Spec coding is a development methodology where you define detailed specifications (project brief, user experience, design requirements) before writing any code. AI then uses these specifications to generate production-ready code that precisely matches your requirements. It's the opposite of 'vibe coding' where you start coding immediately and figure things out as you go.
How is spec coding different from traditional AI coding?
Traditional AI coding often involves giving vague prompts and hoping the AI understands what you want. Spec coding provides the AI with structured, comprehensive specifications—project goals, user flows, design requirements—so it can generate exactly what you need. The result is more accurate, consistent, and production-ready code.
Do I need to be technical to use spec coding?
No! Spec coding is designed for everyone. You describe what you want in plain language, and AI helps you structure your thoughts into proper specifications. If you can describe your product idea, you can use spec coding. Technical knowledge helps but isn't required.
How long does it take to write specifications?
With AI assistance, you can create comprehensive specifications in 30 minutes to a few hours, depending on project complexity. This upfront investment saves significantly more time during development by reducing iterations, miscommunications, and rewrites.
Can I update my specifications after code is generated?
Absolutely. Spec coding is iterative. Update your specifications anytime, and AI will regenerate or modify your code accordingly. Your specs become living documentation that evolves with your project.
What types of projects work best with spec coding?
Spec coding works for any software project—web apps, mobile apps, APIs, dashboards, landing pages, and more. It's especially powerful for complex projects where clear requirements are crucial, and for teams who want consistent, predictable development.