Codex
This is the tool I’ve used to help me move closer to the build, elevating my knowledge of the underlying code, structure and mechanics of shipping something live. It’s also become my default interface for ChatGPT.
Codex is the tool I use when I want AI to work closer to real files when building a real product.It’s ChatGPT’s version of Claude Code, taking a different approach by having a single interface as opposed to Claude’s 3 (chat, Code, Cowork).It connects to core developer tools like Terminal.
Everything.From building out initial websites, debugging, understanding how pieces and tools fit together through to working through the build.This covers platforms like Github, Vercel, Sanity (CMS) and Ionos.It’s worked as my build partner, either guiding me step-by-step in how to deploy changes or taking on tasks I would not normally handle myself.It has also created infographics, copy and advice to support the website build.
It works best when there is a concrete task, initially the idea from my website was crafted in ChatGPT and then moved to Codes.Tying it to a real environment where value comes from actually making changes and seeing it through to deployment is where it really shines.
It can get technical.Seeing Terminal commands and how the information is presented is a big step change if you’re used to LLM chat.Asking it to explain everything or repeat what needs doing has helped me get comfortable with how it works and what is needed from me to get the best from it.See it as needing more steering than a simple writing task would require.
Best for people who want to get hands-on with technical work without pretending they already know everything about the tooling.
Codex has been one of the most valuable tools for my own learning because it closes the gap between talking about delivery and actually doing it.Coding would have been impossible without this or a similar tool (Claude Code for example).