What is an API Key?
API stands for Application Programming Interface. Think of it like ordering a meal at a restaurant:
You — The Customer
You place an order — that's your request to the AI.
The Kitchen
The AI model with all its ingredients and power — you can't access it directly.
The API — The Waiter
Takes your order to the kitchen and brings back the response. The API Key is your table number — it proves you have access.
Instead of food, you're ordering messages, and the kitchen delivers back AI-generated responses.
How to Get an API Key
For this guide, we'll use Google AI Studio — reliable with the biggest free tiers available.
Create an account at Google AI Studio using your Google account.
Navigate to the "Get an API Key" button in the left sidebar and click it.
Create a new API Key. Give it a name and assign it to the default Google project.
Copy your API Key and paste it into Coditan's API Key field. You're connected!
Selecting a Model
Once you have your API key, choose a model. Here are the recommended options:
| Model | Model String | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Gemini 3 Flash (Default) | google/gemini-3-flash |
Everyday use, near-unlimited free tier |
| Gemini 3.1 Pro | google/gemini-3.1-pro-preview |
Google's top-tier flagship model |
| Gemini 2.5 Pro | google/gemini-2.5-pro |
Near-flagship quality with higher limits |
| Custom | google/gemini-{version}-{fast|pro} |
Pick any model from Google's lineup |
To use a custom model, click "Custom Model" in Coditan and type the model string directly.