Getting Started
Everything you need to start building your service business app in about 5 minutes.
Requirements
Before you begin, make sure you have:
- An AI subscription — Claude Pro, ChatGPT Plus, or equivalent
- The course materials — Free download from GitHub
- Your AI tool of choice — Claude Desktop, ChatGPT, Cowork, Manus, or any AI that can read files
This course works on all major AI platforms. Use whichever tool you prefer.
Installation
Download the Course Materials
Go to the GitHub repository and download the course folder:
Option A: Download ZIP (Recommended)
Download the course ZIP and extract it to your computer.
Option B: Git Clone
git clone https://github.com/Tariqlearnstocode/build-it-yourself-service-business.gitOpen Your AI Tool
Launch Claude, ChatGPT, Cowork, Manus, or your preferred AI platform.
Point It at the Course Folder
- Claude Desktop / Cowork: Select the course folder when prompted
- ChatGPT: Upload the course folder or individual lesson files
- Other tools: Open or upload the course files so your AI can access them
Start Building
Say "start lesson 1.1" and your AI tool will ask about your service business and what problems you face day to day. Then you'll start building real software together.
What You'll Need to Know About Your Business
This course works best when you bring a real problem. Before you start, think about:
- What service do you provide? (cleaning, tutoring, consulting, photography, etc.)
- How do new clients find you? (referrals, social media, website, etc.)
- What's your biggest admin headache? (scheduling, tracking clients, following up, etc.)
- What tools are you currently paying for? (Calendly, Square, Honeybook, etc.)
You don't need perfect answers. Your AI tool will help you figure out the right thing to build.
Course Structure
| Lesson | Topic | What You'll Do |
|---|---|---|
| Module 1: Your First Build | ||
| 1.1 | Introduction | Meet the course, share your situation |
| 1.2 | Scoping the Problem | Identify problems worth solving |
| 1.3 | Choosing Your Tools | Pick frameworks, databases, hosting |
| 1.4 | Building the Public Side | Build the client intake form |
| 1.5 | Building the Admin Side | Build the management dashboard |
| 1.6 | Deploying Your App | Put your app online for free |
| Module 2: Making It Real | ||
| 2.1 | Real-World Iteration | Take feedback and improve |
| 2.2 | Storage, Costs, and Free Tiers | Handle storage without breaking the bank |
| 2.3 | Designing for Your User | Make your app work for busy people |
| 2.4 | Maintaining and Evolving | Handle bugs, add features, know when to stop |
Tips for Success
Bring a real problem. The course is designed around YOUR service business. The more specific you are about what you need, the more useful the app you'll build.
- Follow along actively - Don't just read. Actually build the thing with your AI tool
- Use your real business - Generic examples teach less than solving your actual problem
- Don't worry about "doing it right" - The whole point is that you can iterate. Ship first, improve later
- Take breaks - You can stop and resume anytime
Troubleshooting
AI can't see my files
Make sure you've selected or uploaded the correct folder. Ask your AI: "Can you see the course files?" If not, reselect or re-upload.
Lessons aren't working
Try saying the exact phrase: start lesson 1.1 — your AI is trained to recognize this format.
I'm stuck on a step
Just ask your AI! Say "I'm stuck" or "Can you help me with this?" Your AI is your interactive building partner throughout the course.
Ready?
Head back to your AI tool and type:
start lesson 1.1Let's build something.