I used Cursor to build an app on the train, made $30K, and quit my job.

Summary

In this inspiring video, Polus shares his journey of building a $30,000 app using AI tools like Bolt, Cursor, and Framer. With no coding background, he was able to create a product matching startups with influencers in just 7 months. Polus outlines his step-by-step process for creating MVPs, designing clean, functional UIs, and marketing his app successfully. From validating ideas using Semrush to sharing his growth strategies on Twitter, Polus proves that with the right tools, anyone can turn an idea into a profitable business quickly.

Takeaways

• 😀 Polus made $30,000 by building an app with AI tools, Bolt and Cursor, without needing to write code.
• 😀 AI tools like Bolt, Cursor, and Framer allowed Polus to build, launch, and market his app quickly and efficiently.
• 😀 Polus’ app matches startups with influencers and has gained over 1,000 users, with 350 paying customers.
• 😀 His entrepreneurial journey started with door-to-door sales at age 18, eventually leading him to side hustles like web design, copywriting, and sales funnels.
• 😀 Polus struggled with coding, but with AI tools like GPT-4 and Cursor, he was able to overcome this limitation and successfully build his app.
• 😀 To build MVPs quickly, Polus recommends using Perplexity for research, Bolt for creating the app, and Cursor for refining the project.
• 😀 Polus emphasizes the importance of understanding customer needs and using tools like Semrush to validate business ideas before development.
• 😀 Polus uses Framer for designing clean, simple landing pages and apps, focusing on ease of use and speed of execution.
• 😀 The most critical part of landing page design is the 'hero section,' where the main message and call to action should be clear within seconds.
• 😀 Building in public and frequent social media sharing, like posting on Twitter, helped Polus gain traction and attention for his product.
• 😀 Polus believes that AI is a superpower that allows solo entrepreneurs to build products quickly, and that it's possible to execute ideas in a weekend and validate them via platforms like Twitter.

Q & A

What inspired Polus to start building an app?

Polus was motivated by frustration from previous business models not working and wanted to create something for creators, which led him to the idea of a database that matched startups with influencers.

How did Polus use AI tools to build his app?

Polus used a combination of Perplexity for research, Bolt for building the MVP, and Cursor for finalizing the product. These tools allowed him to create a fully functional app without needing to write code.

What is the role of Perplexity in Polus' development process?

Perplexity helped Polus by providing up-to-date documentation, guides, and detailed steps for building his app. It was a key resource for understanding the necessary libraries and tools.

Why is Bolt an important tool in Polus' development workflow?

Bolt allowed Polus to quickly create a visually appealing MVP with the basic functionalities. It helped him develop a product without needing in-depth coding knowledge.

How does Cursor fit into the process of building an app?

After using Bolt for the MVP, Polus used Cursor to refine the app, handle backend connections, and ensure everything, such as authentication and security, was properly set up.

What strategy did Polus use to market his app successfully?

Polus used social media, particularly Twitter (now X), to join relevant trends and discussions. He shared his journey and linked his app to ongoing debates, such as whether AI is capable of building a full SAS product.

What is the significance of 'building in public' for Polus?

Building in public allowed Polus to engage with his audience, share progress, and get real-time feedback. This approach helped him create content that resonated with potential users and contributed to his app's success.

What advice does Polus give to aspiring entrepreneurs or developers?

Polus advises entrepreneurs to not underestimate what they can do solo with the help of AI tools. He encourages quick prototyping, iterating, and validating ideas through simple, scrappy methods.

How does Framer help in the design process?

Framer allows Polus to quickly pick templates, make edits, and create clean, attractive designs for his app. The focus is on simplicity, ensuring that the design looks professional without spending too much time on it.

What tools and services did Polus use to run his app?

Polus used a combination of free tools and services, including Perplexity for research, Bolt for MVP creation, Cursor for backend integration, Versal for hosting, and Superbase for databases. These services helped him keep costs low while building the app.