> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.michelangelo.land/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Project Lifecycle

> Understanding the project lifecycle in Michelangelo

A Michelangelo project moves through several stages from idea to shareable app. Understanding the lifecycle helps you know what to expect at each step.

## 1. Creation

Every project starts with a prompt:

* You describe the app in natural language.
* You can attach up to **2 images** for visual reference.
* Michelangelo creates the project, generates the initial files, and streams progress in real time.

The AI also gives the project a name and generates an icon in the background.

## 2. First Preview

Once the initial files are ready, Michelangelo:

* Prepares the source files for the inline sandbox.
* Renders the app in the preview panel.
* Lets you interact with the app immediately.

If something fails during generation, you receive a notification and can try again.

## 3. Iteration

The editor is where most of the work happens. You can:

* Send follow-up prompts to refine the app.
* Fix runtime errors using the auto-fix feature.
* Rename the project, change visibility, or delete it.

<Tip>
  Keep iterations focused. One feature or fix per prompt usually gives the best results.
</Tip>

## 4. Sharing

When you are ready to share:

* Use **App Settings → Share** to open the iOS share sheet.
* A public preview link is generated: `https://michelangelo.land/preview/{projectId}`.
* Anyone with the link can view and interact with the app.

Toggle **Private App** to hide the project from the Explore feed.

## 5. Export

For standalone distribution:

* Connect your GitHub account from **App Settings → Tools → GitHub**.
* Push the source code to your own repository.
* Build and submit the app using your own credentials.

## 6. End of Life

You can delete a project at any time from **App Settings → Delete**. Deletion removes the project and its files from Michelangelo. GitHub repositories already pushed are not affected.

## Next Steps

<CardGroup cols="2">
  <Card title="Vibe Coding Basics" icon="pen-nib" color="#7c7c7c" href="/v2/how-to-build/vibe-coding-basics">
    Learn the fundamentals of Vibe Coding.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Deploy App" icon="rocket" color="#7c7c7c" href="/v2/michelangelo-app/deploy-app">
    Learn how to ship your app.
  </Card>
</CardGroup>