Using AI Without an API Key

GraphDeck doesn't require an API key. The clipboard workflow lets you use any AI chat you already have access to:

1. Type your request in GraphDeck's chat panel
2. Click the clipboard button. The full AI prompt is copied
3. Paste it into ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, or any AI chat
4. Copy the AI's response
5. Paste it back into GraphDeck
6. The graph renders on your canvas

This works with any AI account. Most providers have a free tier. No billing, no API configuration needed on GraphDeck's side.

Using a GraphDeck Gem (recommended)

For better results without an API key, use a GraphDeck Gem: a custom Gemini AI pre-loaded with the full node library, syntax rules, and generation patterns for a specific mode. You don't need to upload or configure anything. Just open the link for the mode you're working in.

Available Gems:

• Blueprints Gem →
• Materials Gem →

How to use:

1. Open the Gem for your current mode (Blueprints or Materials)
2. Type your request in GraphDeck's chat panel and click "Copy Prompt"
3. Paste the prompt into the Gem
4. Copy the Gem's response
5. Paste it back into GraphDeck

The prompt is shorter than the standard clipboard version because the Gem already knows GraphDeck's format. This means faster responses and more accurate results.

You can also save your Gem URL in Settings → Knowledge AI to get an "Open Your AI" button directly in the generate dialog.

Not sure which AI to use? See AI Models for a breakdown of which models produce the best results.

Adding an API Key (Optional)

For in-app generation, add your own API key in Settings:

• Anthropic (Claude Sonnet 4.6), recommended for graph generation
• OpenAI (GPT-5.4)
• Google (Gemini 3.1 Pro)

Your key stays on your machine. GraphDeck never stores it remotely or routes it through any server. You pay for your own usage directly with the provider.