Start in your own words. Then use the guided prompt below if you would like ChatGPT or Claude to help organize the details.
The app idea prompt
Copy prompt You are helping me turn a rough app idea into a clear MVP or prototype brief. Answer every question below in 2 to 3 sentences. Be specific and honest. If I do not know an answer, say “not sure yet” and suggest an assumption I should explore. Do not write code.
1. Give the app a simple working name and one-sentence purpose.
2. Who will use it? Include the type of person, role, or age group if relevant.
3. What frustrating problem does it solve for them?
4. What is the single most important thing a person should be able to do in the app?
5. Describe what a first-time user should see and do.
6. What information, choices, or content would a user need to provide?
7. Are there other roles, such as an owner, admin, staff member, parent, customer, or partner? What does each need to do?
8. What should happen after the user completes the main action?
9. Does the idea need accounts, appointment booking, payments, messages, location, reminders, or a way to share something?
10. What should this first version not do yet? Name anything that can wait until later.
11. What should the experience feel like? For example: playful, kid-friendly, polished, professional, bold, calm, simple, premium, or creative.
12. How will you know this MVP helped? What should become easier, faster, clearer, or more valuable?