Introduction to gpt-engineer
gpt-engineer is a unique tool designed for software developers and tech enthusiasts who want to leverage AI for coding tasks. It allows users to specify software requirements in natural language and lets the AI handle coding and improvements. This tool is part of an open-source community effort to optimize coding processes using artificial intelligence.
Key Features
- Natural Language Specification: Users can define what they need in plain English.
- Automated Coding: Once the requirements are set, AI automatically writes and executes the necessary code.
- Improvement Capabilities: The AI can also enhance existing code based on user feedback.
Getting Started
Installation:
For stable release:
python -m pip install gpt-engineer
For development purposes:
git clone https://github.com/gpt-engineer-org/gpt-engineer.git
cd gpt-engineer
poetry install
poetry shell
It supports Python versions 3.10 to 3.12.
API Key Setup:
- Set up your API key by exporting it as an environment variable or by placing it in a
.envfile. - For custom models, refer to the documentation.
Running gpt-engineer:
- Create New Code: Set up a project directory with a
promptfile containing your instructions, and run thegptecommand with your project path. - Improve Existing Code: Place the code you wish to improve in a directory, edit the
promptfile with your improvements, and rungptewith the-iflag.
Benchmarking
gpt-engineer includes a tool called 'bench' for benchmarking custom agent implementations against datasets like APPS and MBPP. A starter template is available for guidance.
Additional Features
- Pre Prompts: Customize the AI’s "identity" or behavior for different projects by adjusting pre prompts.
- Vision Capabilities: The tool can accept images (e.g., UX or architecture diagrams) for context using a vision-capable model.
- Model Options: Supports OpenAI and Anthropic models and can be configured to work with open source models like WizardCoder.
Mission and Community
The mission of the gpt-engineer community is to develop tools for coding agents and support collaboration within the open-source community. Contributors are encouraged to join the effort, and regular contributors may be considered for the project's governance board.
Commercial Aspect
gptengineer.app is a commercial project aimed at generating web apps automatically, featuring a UI for users. The team behind it actively supports the gpt-engineer open-source community.
Conclusion
gpt-engineer is an innovative step forward in using AI to streamline software development, providing both novice and experienced developers a tool to enhance coding efficiency. Its open-source nature ensures a collaborative environment focused on continuous improvement and engagement.