How to Build an MVP in 48 Hours with AI

Two days is enough if you treat time like a budget and scope like a constraint. Here’s a ruthless schedule that gets you from zero to something users can click and judge.

Hour 0–1: Constraints First

• Audience, problem, and one golden path (“happy path”).
• Three non‑features you will not build (kills scope creep).
• Success metric for the weekend (e.g., 10 test signups).

Hour 1–3: Chat → Roadmap

Prompt the system with the golden path and data model. Ask for:

• Pages + components list with IDs.
• Minimal API (3–5 endpoints).
• Seed data for a believable demo.

Hour 3–12: Scaffolding and Core Loop

• Spin up auth + persistence; keep it boring (Postgres + REST).
• Build only the happy path: create → view → share.
• Instrument one event that tells you if value happened.

Hour 12–24: Make It Real

• Seed data + “Demo Mode” switch for screenshots.
• Write a README.md that anyone can follow.
• Kick the tires with 3 users on a call; fix only blockers.

Hour 24–48: Polish That Converts

• Empty states, errors, and loading skeletons — trust builders.
• 1‑page landing (benefit, demo GIF, CTA), basic analytics.
• Tweet thread + changelog; line up 5 feedback calls.

You don’t need infinite features — you need one honest loop that proves the point. Ship that loop, then tighten it.