From PRD to Code

You have a PRD. Now what? Here's how to turn your product requirements into working code using AI assistants.

Step 1: Set Up Your Environment

Before coding:

Create your project folder

Initialize version control

Set up your .cursorrules or AI context

Copy your PRD to the project

Step 2: Start with Structure

Ask your AI assistant to:

Create project structure based on PRD

Set up configuration files

Initialize database schema

Create placeholder components

Step 3: Build Core Features First

Work through features in priority order:

Read the feature requirements

Ask AI to implement

Review generated code

Test functionality

Commit and move on

Step 4: Iterate with Context

Keep your AI informed:

Reference the PRD for context

Share error messages

Explain what's working

Clarify edge cases

Step 5: Connect the Pieces

Once features exist:

Wire up navigation

Connect to database

Add authentication

Test integration

Common Pitfalls

Avoid these mistakes:

**Skipping the PRD** - AI needs context

**Too many features** - Start small

**Not testing** - Verify each step

**Ignoring errors** - Fix issues immediately

Workflow Tips

Efficient PRD-to-code workflow:

Work in small chunks

Commit frequently

Test as you go

Document decisions

When to Update the PRD

Update your PRD when:

Requirements change

You discover constraints

Features are completed

Scope changes

Your PRD is a living document. Keep it current as your project evolves.

From PRD to Code: Using AI to Build Your Project