Vibe Coding: Guide to Developing Software with Artificial Intelligence

Introduction: A New Programming Paradigm

In the rapidly changing technological landscape, an innovative approach to programming is emerging that is democratizing software development: the "vibe coding" . This revolutionary method uses artificial intelligence tools to translate ideas and descriptions into working code, breaking down the barriers to entry into the world of programming.

In this article, we'll explore in depth how vibe coding is changing the game, giving professionals from various industries the ability to create digital applications and solutions without necessarily possessing advanced technical skills. We'll discover a complete workflow, explore real-world use cases, and discuss the benefits, limitations, and best practices of this emerging technology.

What is Vibe Coding: Definition and Context

The Vibe Coding It represents a paradigm of software development based on human-machine collaboration, where the human element provides directives, ideas and feedback, while artificial intelligence takes care of the translation into working code. Unlike traditional programming, this approach does not require a In-depth knowledge programming languages, but is based on the ability to:

• Clearly describe what you want to accomplish
• Evaluate and iterate on AI-generated outputs
• Understand the basic concepts of software development

This development model represents a significant evolution from no-code/low-code approaches, offering greater flexibility and customization without sacrificing the power of pure code. It is particularly suitable for:

• Entrepreneurs and managers who want to prototype their ideas quickly
• Designers and creatives who want to bring their digital visions to life
• Non-technical professionals who need customized software solutions
• Junior Developers who seek to accelerate their learning and productivity

Vibe Coding Tools: Enabling Technologies

To get started with vibe coding, you need to equip yourself with the right tools. The market offers several solutions, each with distinctive characteristics:

Platforms to build AI-assisted applications

• Replit : An integrated cloud-based development environment that offers AI capabilities through their Ghostwriter service. It allows you to start immediately from the browser, without installations, with a user-friendly interface and support for numerous programming languages.
• GitHub Copilot An extension for several code editors that suggests code completions based on the project context and user instructions.
• Cursor : IDE based on VS Code that integrates advanced AI features. It offers a familiar experience for developers, enriched with generative capabilities and a contextual chat system to interact with AI.
• JetBrains AI Assistant : AI integration into the JetBrains suite editors, with support for code suggestions, refactoring, and troubleshooting assistance.
• Lovable : A platform that transforms natural language descriptions into working applications, ideal for non-programmers and startups that need to quickly validate ideas without in-depth technical skills.
• Bolt : Automation tool for developers that simplifies repetitive programming tasks through a smart and interactive interface, optimizing workflows and significantly reducing manual workload.
• EasySite : Fully automated website building platform that generates professional websites from simple text prompts, incorporating SEO-optimized content, images, and structures without requiring technical or design skills.
• UI Bakery : Low-code/no-code platform specializing in building internal tools and business applications with full backend and database support, enhanced by AI capabilities for advanced customization.
• V0.dev : Vercel's tool focused on rapid prototyping of user interfaces with automatic React and Tailwind code generation, perfect for UI/UX designers and frontend developers in the Next.js ecosystem.
• Slr : An emerging open-source platform for AI-driven development, constantly evolving and geared towards maximum flexibility, it offers a balance between ease of use and in-depth control over code customization.
• Claude Code : Intelligent agent-based coding tool that operates directly in the terminal, deeply understands your existing codebase, and helps you code faster through natural language interactions, leveraging Anthropic's advanced models.
  

Here is a summary table of the fundamental tools to know for vibe coding, organized by category:

Category	Description	Application
AI App Builders	Platforms to build AI-assisted applications	• Bolt – Full app builder • Replit – Cloud IDE with built-in AI • V0 by Vercel – Full stack UI generator
Code Generators	AI-powered code generation tools	• Cursor – AI-powered IDEs • GitHub Copilot – Coding Assistant • Codeium – Copilot Alternative
Design Tools	Tools to design interfaces	• Figma – Industry standard for UI design • Adobe XD – Adobe design suite • Penpot – Open source alternative
Design-to-Code	They convert design into working code	• Soul – Converts Figma/XD to code • Locofy – Turn design into React/React Native • Builder.io – Visual platform with AI
Database & Backend	Server logic and data solutions	• Supabase – Alternatives to open source Firebase • Firebase – Google backend solution • Convex – Responsive database with AI
UI Libraries	Ready-to-use component frameworks	• Shadcn/UI – Customizable React components • Tailwind CSS – Utility-first CSS framework • MUI – Material Design component library
No-Code Helpers	Tools to create without code	• Bubble – Comprehensive no-code platform • FlutterFlow – Visual builder for Flutter • Webflow – For professional websites
Hosting & Deployment	App publishing and hosting	• Vercel – Frontend hosting • Netlify – JAMstack platform • Render – Unified Cloud
AI Platforms	AI Services for Advanced Integrations	• OpenAI API – To integrate GPT and DALL-E • Hugging Face – Open-source AI models • Anthropic Claude API – Alternative LLM models
Automation	Workflow automation	• Zapier – App integration and automation • n8n – Open source alternative • Make – Ex Integromat, for complex workflows

These tools represent the leading AI-powered development solutions available in 2025, each with specific strengths suitable for different user profiles and project requirements. Platform that creates applications based on natural language descriptionsIdeal for non-programmers and startups who want to validate ideas quickly

Detailed Workflow: From Vision to Working Code

The choice of tool depends on personal preference, previous experience, and the type of project. For complete beginners, online solutions like Replit can offer the most accessible learning curve, while for those already familiar with development environments, Cursor may be the most powerful option.

The vibe coding process follows an iterative flow that can be broken down into six main steps:

1. Setting Up the Environment

Before you begin, you need to:

• Choose and configure an AI tool: Register or install your chosen solution, ensuring you have access to AI features.
• Create a new project : Set up the working environment, possibly selecting a template or starting framework suitable for the project (es. HTML/CSS/JS for a website, Python for a data analysis application).
• Familiarize yourself with the interface : Explore basic features, specifically identifying how to access AI chat or auto-suggestions.

2. Formulation of the Initial Prompt

This phase is Crucial to the success of Vibe coding . A good prompt must:

• Be clear and specific : Describe precisely what you want to accomplish, including functional and visual details.
• Use natural but precise language : You don't need to use technical terms, but it's important to be consistent and logical in your description.
• Start with simple elements : Start with basic functionality and gradually increase complexity in subsequent iterations.

An example of an effective prompt would be: "Create a web page with a light blue background (#e6f2ff). At the top there should be a centered header with the text 'Project Management' in bold font, size 24px. Below the header, enter a form with fields for 'Project Name', 'Start Date', 'Estimated Budget' and a green 'Save' button, useful for the programmer.

3. Evaluation and Acceptance of the Generated Code

After submitting the prompt, the AI will generate a code proposal. At this stage:

• Review the output : Verify that the generated code matches your request. Most tools will present the code in an easily readable format, highlighting differences or new files created.
• Accept or change : Use the tool's mechanisms to apply code to your project. Depending on the platform, this could be an "Apply Changes" button, "Accept Suggestion," or a manual copy-paste operation.
• Understand what has been generated : If the code contains unfamiliar elements, you can ask the AI to explain it. This is a great way to learn while building.

4. Test and Verification

Testing is key in vibe coding:

• Run the code : Launch the program or preview the web page to verify that it works as expected.
• Identify any issues : Check if there are any visible errors or missing features from your initial request.
• Document the results : Take note of what works well and what needs changes for subsequent iterations.

5. Iteration and Refining

The result will rarely be perfect on the first try. The iterative process involves:

• Providing specific feedback is essential for a developer using vibe coding approaches. : Tells the AI what needs to be improved, fixed, or added. For example: "The 'Save' button does not work when clicked. It should save the form data in localStorage and show a confirmation message."
• Collaborative debugging : If errors occur, copy any error messages and ask the AI to analyze them and propose solutions.
• Add incremental features : Once the base is working, proceed by adding new features one at a time. For example: "Now add a table below the form that shows all your saved projects, with columns by name, date, and budget."

6. Optimization and Finalization

When the core features are implemented, it's time to refine the design:

• Request cosmetic enhancements : "Enhance the visual appeal by applying a consistent color palette and adding space between elements."
• Optimize performance : "Make sure that your code is efficient and doesn't contain redundant operations."
• Add documentation : "Generate comments in the code to explain the main sections and how they work."
• Implement best practices : "Make sure your code follows security and maintainability best practices."

Case Study: Developing a To-Do List Application

To concretely illustrate the vibe coding workflow, let's see how to develop a task management application (to-do list) step by step:

Initial Prompt

"Create an HTML page with a 'My Tasks' header, an input field to enter new tasks, an 'Add' button, and a blank section where the added tasks will be displayed."

Output and Test

The AI generates an HTML page with the required elements. Testing the page, we notice that the visual appearance is basic and the button has no functionality yet, making it necessary to debug thoroughly.

First Iteration

"Make sure that when I click the 'Add' button, the text in the input field is added as a new item in the task list, and then the input field is emptied."

Output and Test

Now the AI adds JavaScript to handle the click on the button. Testing, we see that it works, but we can add blank elements, and there's no way to mark tasks as completed.

Second Iteration

"Edit the code so that: 1) Blank tasks cannot be added, 2) Each task has a checkbox next to it that, when checked, strikes through the text of the task to indicate that it has been completed."

Output and Test

AI implements input validation and adds checkboxes with the functionality of crossing out text. Testing, we notice that everything works, but the tasks disappear when the page is reloaded.

Third Iteration

"Implement data persistence using localStorage, so that tasks and their status (completed or not) are saved and restored even after the page is reloaded."

Output and Test

AI adds code to save and load tasks from localStorage, simplifying the programmer's job. By testing, we verify that the persistence is working properly.

Fourth Iteration

"Add the following features: 1) A 'Delete' button next to each task, 2) A 'Delete completed' button that removes all tasks marked as completed, 3) A counter that shows the number of active and completed tasks."

Output and Test

AI implements the new features. After the test, everything works as expected.

Fifth Iteration (Optimization)

"Improve the visual appeal of the application: 1) Use a consistent color palette with blue and gray tones, 2) Add subtle animations when adding or completing tasks, 3) Make the interface responsive to accommodate different screen sizes, 4) Add an icon next to the title."

Output and Test

AI applies the required aesthetic improvements, making the application more visually appealing and professional.

In just a few iterations, we created a functional application without writing a single line of code, simply describing what we wanted and guiding the AI through subsequent improvements.

Advanced Vibe Coding Strategies

With practice, more sophisticated techniques can be adopted to achieve better results:

Layered Communication

Structure the requests in a layered way, providing:

• A general context of the project
• Specific goals of the current iteration
• Technology constraints or preferences
• Concrete examples or visual references

For example: "This is an e-commerce project. At this stage, I want to implement the shopping cart. I prefer to use vanilla JavaScript without a framework. The shopping cart should work like Amazon's, where users can add/remove items and see the total updated in real-time."

Using External References

Incorporate references to:

• Screenshots or design mockups
• Pre-existing code samples
• Documentation of APIs or services to be integrated
• UX/UI patterns to emulate

For example: "I want to implement an authentication system similar to the one shown in this image [link]. It should integrate with the Firebase Auth API, the documentation for which can be found here [link]."

Advanced Debugging

For complex problems:

• Isolate problem components
• Provide complete error traces
• Ask for detailed explanations of the problem
• Requesting different alternatives or approaches

For example: "The code throws this error [copy of the error]. It seems related to the filtering function. Can you explain why this occurs and propose a workaround that uses a more functional approach instead of the current imperative implementation?"

Benefits and Opportunities of Vibe Coding

The adoption of vibe coding offers numerous benefits, particularly relevant in the modern business context:

Democratization of Software Development

• Breaking down technical barriers : Allows non-technical professionals to create software solutions without intermediaries.
• Empowerment of domain experts : Those who know the problem can directly implement the solution, without loss of communication.
• Reduced reliance on scarce technical resources : In a market where skilled developers are hard to find and expensive, vibe coding offers an affordable alternative.

Accelerate Development Cycles

• Ultra-rapid prototyping : Ideas that would take days or weeks to implement can take shape in hours.
• Fast Iterations : Changes and improvements can be applied quickly, facilitating the agile approach.
• Reduced time-to-market : Products and features can reach the market faster, giving you a competitive advantage.

Reduced Development Costs

• Less need for specialized resources : Projects that would traditionally require development teams can be carried out by non-technical figures with AI support.
• Optimization of development hours : Professional developers can focus on more complex and strategic aspects.
• Lower maintenance costs : With iterative and incremental approaches, problems are identified and resolved early.

Accelerated Innovation

• Low-risk trial : New ideas can be tested quickly without large upfront investments.
• Exploring Workarounds : AI can suggest different approaches that may not be immediately apparent.
• Continuous learning : Interaction with AI promotes the acquisition of technical skills even for non-specialists.

Limitations and Critical Considerations

Despite the many benefits, it's crucial to be aware of the limitations of vibe coding:

Code Reliability

• Potential logic errors : AI can produce code that looks correct but contains subtle bugs or logic issues.
• Unmanaged Edge Cases : Rare or exceptional situations may not be adequately considered without explicit instructions.
• Dependency on prompt quality : The accuracy of the generated code is directly proportional to the clarity of the instructions provided.

Security Issues

• Potential vulnerabilities : Without specific security instructions, AI could generate code that is vulnerable to common attacks.
• Outdated practices : AI may be using methods or libraries that are no longer considered safe.
• Improper handling of sensitive data : Particular attention should be paid to the handling of personal or confidential information.

Context and Memory Limits

• Limited context window : AI has limits in the amount of information it can consider at once.
• Difficulties with complex projects : Large applications with many interdependencies can be difficult to manage.
• Consistency across sessions : Maintaining consistency in projects developed across multiple sessions can be challenging.

Need for Human Supervision

• Quality Verification : The generated code still requires review, especially for critical applications.
• Strategic Judgment : AI cannot replace the big picture and fundamental architectural decisions.
• Final responsibility A: The responsibility for the final product remains with the human user.

Best Practices for Optimal Results

To maximize the benefits of vibe coding and mitigate its risks, it is advisable to follow these guidelines:

Effective Communication with AI

• Be specific and detailed : Provide precise instructions, avoiding ambiguity. It's better to say "create a round-shaped red (#FF0000) button with a 20px radius and white 'Send' (#FFFFFF)" rather than "create a nice red button."
• Thinking in logical steps : Break down complex requests into sequential and logical steps. Build the application one piece at a time.
• Provide examples and references : Whenever possible, include concrete examples or links to visual references to clarify expectations.

Structured Development Process

• Start with a clear MVP : Define the minimum working version before adding complexity.
• Test frequently : Check each new feature you just rolled, before proceeding with the next ones.
• Document decisions : Keep track of choices made and motivations, especially for long-term projects.
• Keep an overview : Make sure that each new addition integrates consistently with the overall project.

Code Review and Quality

• Critically review the output : Do not passively accept the generated code, but evaluate it carefully.
• Ask for explanations : If something is unclear, request the AI to explain how the code works.
• Implement automated tests : For more serious projects, ask AI to generate unit or integration tests.
• Consider expert review : For production-critical or production-critical applications, have your code reviewed by professional developers.

Safety and Robustness

• Specify security requirements : Explicitly include security considerations in initial prompts.
• Verify input handling : Ensure that all user inputs are properly validated and sanitized.
• Test negative scenarios : Check how your application handles errors, unexpected inputs, or exceptional situations.
• Use static analysis tools : Consider using linters or security scanners on the generated code.

The Future of Vibe Coding: Perspectives and Trends

Vibe coding is just the beginning of a profound transformation in the way we think about software development. Looking to the future, we can anticipate several evolutions:

Deeper Integration into Workflows

• Domain-specific AI assistants : Specialized AI tools for verticals such as finance, healthcare, or education.
• Multi-agent collaboration : Systems where different AI agents deal with specific aspects of development (UX, backend, testing).
• Integration with project management tools : Synchronization between planning and implementation through AIs that interpret user stories and specifications.

Increased technical capabilities

• Improved contextual understanding : AI capable of maintaining and understanding broader and more complex contexts.
• Generating complete architectures : Ability to propose and implement sophisticated software structures.
• Auto-debugging and optimization : Systems that can identify and fix performance issues or bugs on their own.

Further democratization

• Multimodal interfaces : Ability to describe requirements through voice, sketch, or even gestures.
• Increased accessibility : Tools adapted for people with disabilities, further expanding access to software development.
• Reduction of language barriers : Support for prompts in natural languages other than English.

Conclusion: Embracing Change

Vibe coding represents a significant paradigm shift that is redefining who can create software and how it is developed. It is not simply a new tool, but an entire development philosophy that prioritizes intent over syntax, vision over technical implementation.

For businesses and professionals, this technology offers unprecedented opportunities:

• Accelerating innovation : Turning ideas into working prototypes faster than ever before.
• Democratization of technical skills : Enable multidisciplinary teams to contribute directly to development.
• Resource optimization : Freeing experienced developers from simpler tasks to focus on complex challenges.

However, like any transformative technology, it requires a balanced approach that recognizes both potentials and limitations. Vibe coding does not completely replace traditional development, but complements and enriches it, creating new spaces of possibilities.

Organizations and professionals who can effectively integrate these new methods into their processes will have a significant competitive advantage in an increasingly digital and fast-paced economy. The future belongs to those who will be able to combine human creativity with the efficiency of artificial intelligence, creating solutions that only a few years ago would have seemed impossible.

Vibe coding is not just a new way of programming: it is a new way of imagining and realizing the digital future.