Build a Custom AI Chatbot in 30 Minutes with OpenAI’s API – A Step‑by‑Step Tutorial

1. What You’ll Need Before You Start

• An OpenAI API key (sign up at platform.openai.com and create a new secret key).
• Basic familiarity with Python (or Node.js) and a code editor (VS Code recommended).
• A free account on a platform like Replit or a local environment with Python 3.8+ installed.

2. Setting Up Your Development Environment

• Create a new project folder and initialize a virtual environment (e.g., `python -m venv venv`).
• Install the official OpenAI Python package: `pip install openai python-dotenv`.
• Store your API key in a `.env` file (never commit it to GitHub) and load it with `python-dotenv`.

3. Writing Your First Chat Completion Request

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Written byTheo Grant

Theo Grant explores real-world AI applications, automation workflows, and hands-on tutorials at AI In Action Hub. Theo breaks down complex AI concepts into practical guides that help professionals and creators leverage AI in their daily work.