Install your tools

Your new starter comes with a database and a migration system, but two tools need to be on your machine before you can use them.

Install Atlas

Atlas takes the table definitions you write in code and creates the actual tables in your database. Without it, the database is empty and your app has nowhere to store data.

You already have mise from Chapter 2 — it can install Atlas too:

mise use -g atlas

Verify it's installed:

atlas version

You should see a version number like v1.x.x. If it asks you to log in, skip it — Atlas is free and open source, no account needed.

Install SQLite Viewer

You'll want to see what's inside your database as you build. SQLite Viewer is a VS Code extension that lets you browse tables right in the editor — no extra tools needed.

Install SQLite Viewer by Florian Klampfer from the marketplace.

You'll use this in the next step to verify your tables were created.

That's it — two quick installs and you're ready to set up your database.