How to Build an App
A Non-Linear Guide to Software Development
A practical reference for building software that actually works—not just technically, but for the humans who use it and maintain it.
The Thermocline Principle
Each section is organized in layers, like ocean depth:
Surface Layer
Essential information everyone needs. What this step is and why it matters. If you only read this, you won't sink.
Mid-Depth
Practical guidance for competent practitioners. Common pitfalls, tool recommendations, and real-world trade-offs.
Deep Water
Advanced topics for specialists. Edge cases, compliance, regulatory considerations, and enterprise patterns.
Read as deep as you need, then surface. Don't force yourself into deep water when you just need to stay afloat.
Who This Is For
New Developers
A map of the entire software development lifecycle without drowning in theory
Busy Developers
Quick answers right now—not a 300-page book you'll never finish
Specialists Expanding
Backend devs learning deployment, web devs learning ML—domain-specific guidance
Generalists Leveling Up
Fill gaps across the full stack of disciplines systematically
YOLO Devs at 2am
Built something that works? Now figure out testing, security, or deployment without starting over
Browse by Phase
Explore the 7 phases of development lifecycle
Learning Paths
Guided journeys for different personas and goals
About
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