Claude changed how I build software. Not because it writes perfect code — it doesn't always — but because it eliminates the gap between having an idea and seeing it work. Here's my actual workflow.
The Conversation-First Approach
I don't start with code. I start with a conversation. I describe what I'm building, who it's for, and what it should feel like. Claude helps me think through the architecture before I write anything. This saves hours of refactoring later.
Building in Layers
I build features one layer at a time. First the data model, then the API, then the UI, then the animations. At each layer, I describe what I need and Claude generates it. I review, adjust, and move to the next layer. It's like pair programming with someone who never gets tired.
The 80/20 Rule
Claude gets me 80% of the way there in 20% of the time. The last 20% — the polish, the edge cases, the "make it feel right" work — that's where I spend my energy. AI handles the scaffolding. I handle the soul.
My Actual Stack
I use Claude through both the API (for my content pipeline) and Claude Code (for building features). Combined with Cursor for inline editing and Supabase for the backend, I can go from idea to deployed feature in a single afternoon.
The Mindset Shift
The biggest change isn't technical — it's psychological. Once you realize you can build anything you can describe, you stop asking "can I build this?" and start asking "should I build this?" That's a much better question.