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

• 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

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

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.

See Licensing and Activation.

4. Configure a provider

Open Settings and configure the provider role you want to use:

• OpenAI, Anthropic, 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

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 first task

• Want an explanation or plan first? Start in ASK Mode.
• Want a script change? Start with First Task: Write Your First Script Change.
• Want to inspect data? Start with First Task: Run Your First Query.
• Want a guided high-impact data action? Start with First Task: Run Your First Data Task.

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 is read-only for external clients.

See Safety and Confirmation Model.

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