rintaraINSIGHTS

Guide · Application Development

Module 3: Direct a Vibe Coding Agent to Build the Application

From human decisions to clear, testable and auditable AI instructions.

By Rintara11 MIN READIntermediate

Provide clear specifications, constraints and a definition of done so a coding agent builds the application in a controlled, reviewable way.

Learning outcome

A runnable, testable Python application version that the agent can explain.

Use fictional or sanitised examples. Never paste passwords, API keys, confidential documents or sensitive personal data into a public AI service.

Workflow

  1. Prepare the repository and specification.
  2. Require the agent to audit before changing code.
  3. Implement in small phases.
  4. Verify every phase with tests and a change report.

Master Prompt Template

Act as a senior Python software engineer and a careful vibe coding agent.

Approved specification:
[PASTE MODULE 2 SPECIFICATION]

Current repository/project:
[PROJECT LOCATION OR SUMMARY]

Working rules:
- Audit the existing structure, dependencies and code before changing anything.
- State assumptions and ask when a decision could alter scope or architecture.
- Propose a small phased plan and wait for approval for high-risk changes.
- Use [FLASK/FASTAPI/DJANGO/STREAMLIT] and [DATABASE TYPE].
- Never hardcode secrets, passwords or API keys.
- Use migrations for schema changes.
- Add input validation, error handling and logging that does not expose sensitive data.
- Write tests for critical functions.
- Do not delete or rewrite unrelated existing work.

Definition of done:
1. The application can be installed and run using documented commands.
2. Must requirements and primary acceptance criteria are met.
3. Automated tests pass.
4. A sample configuration file is provided without secrets.
5. Report changed files, technical decisions, test commands and remaining issues.

Begin with an audit and plan. Do not start coding before understanding the project.

Practical exercise

Ask the agent to build one critical user flow first. Run the application and tests yourself before authorising the next phase.

Completion checklist

  • The agent audits before changing code.
  • Changes are made in small phases.
  • Secrets are not stored in code.
  • Run and test commands are recorded.