> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://base-a060aa97-danc-alpha-docs.mintlify.site/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Install

> Scaffold a new MiniKit project, install dependencies, and run it locally

## What is a Mini App?

A mini app is a lightweight web app that runs directly inside Farcaster clients like Base App, without needing to open a browser or download anything. Built using familiar tools like Next.js and MiniKit, mini apps behave just like normal apps — but launch instantly from posts, making them feel native to the social experience.

This guide gets you from zero to a running Mini App using the MiniKit template.

<Tip>
  These docs are LLM‑friendly for AI development tools. **Copy individual pages** as markdown from the dropdown menu above, or **reference the complete docs** at [llms.txt](https://docs.base.org/mini-apps/llms-full.txt) for comprehensive Mini App knowledge in your AI assistant.
</Tip>

## Prerequisites

1. Farcaster account (for testing and manifest signing)
2. Optional: Coinbase Developer Platform account for a Client API key

## Create your project

<Steps>
  <Step title="Use the CLI to scaffold a Mini App">
    ```bash Terminal
    npx create-onchain --mini
    ```

    You’ll be prompted for a CDP Client API key. You can generate one in the Coinbase Developer Platform.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Skip manifest setup for now">
    You’ll configure the manifest after you have a stable URL in the Deploy step.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Install dependencies and run locally">
    ```bash Terminal
    cd your-project-name
    npm install
    npm run dev
    ```
  </Step>
</Steps>

Next: Deploy your app to a live URL used when creating your manifest.