Quick Start: First Run Checklist
Use this checklist when you are setting up Genie for the first time or when you want the shortest path to a real result.
1. Confirm the basics
Section titled “1. Confirm the basics”- Download Genie and install it in FileMaker Pro.
- Run Genie on macOS with FileMaker Pro.
- Open the FileMaker file you want to work on.
- Keep Script Workspace available before you try capture or apply actions.
Start with Requirements if you still need to confirm compatibility.
2. Enable the permissions Genie needs
Section titled “2. Enable the permissions Genie needs”In macOS System Settings, make sure FileMaker and the Genie host have the accessibility permissions required for Script Workspace capture and apply flows.
If capture or apply does not respond, go to Clipboard and Focus.
3. Activate Genie
Section titled “3. Activate Genie”Genie checks activation separately from model-provider access.
- Use the header banner or Manage Activation if Genie opens in a locked state.
- A valid trial, active license, or grace state unlocks the Web UI.
- If Genie is locked, fix activation before troubleshooting provider settings.
4. Configure a provider
Section titled “4. Configure a provider”Open Settings and configure the provider role you want to use:
- OpenAI, Anthropic, xAI / Grok, and Google for hosted accounts.
- Custom / Local for OpenAI-compatible endpoints, local servers, or gateways.
If you use Custom / Local, set the model ID, endpoint, and key if your server requires one, then run Test Connection.
See AI Providers and LM Studio Setup (Custom / Local).
5. Capture the right context
Section titled “5. Capture the right context”Before asking for script help:
- Use Add Selection for the current script or selected rows.
- Use Add Scripts when the task depends on multiple open scripts.
- Use Metadata Explorer when you need schema context or
#references.
See Context Capture and Metadata Explorer.
6. Pick the right workflow
Section titled “6. Pick the right workflow”- Want an explanation or plan first? Start in ASK Mode.
- Want a script change? Start in CODE Mode.
- Want to inspect data? Start in QUERY Mode.
- Want a guided high-impact data action? Start in DATA Mode.
- Already in a Specify Calculation dialog? Use Calculation Quick AI for one draft calculation expression.
7. Know what happens before changes land
Section titled “7. Know what happens before changes land”- ASK stays read-only.
- CODE gives you review steps before apply.
- DATA requires explicit confirmation.
- Local MCP Bridge gives local agents read-only metadata/query tools plus Workbench staging for reviewed CODE or DATA handoff.
- Calculation Quick AI inserts draft expression text only after validation and dialog drift checks.
See Safety and Confirmation Model.
If the first run stalls
Section titled “If the first run stalls”- Locked UI: Licensing and Activation
- Provider or endpoint failure: API and Provider Limits
- Capture problems: Clipboard and Focus
- Unsure what to do next: Troubleshooting: First Response Checklist