# Getting started
### Step 0: Head to [platform.flock.io ](https://platform.flock.io/)and sign up
### Step 1: Create an Team
Create a team to manage your organization’s API usage, billing, and access control in one place.\
All API keys, credits, logs, and members will belong to this team.
### Step 2: Create an API key
To start using the API, you will be prompted to create the API key first
Please keep your API key safe as you won't be able to see it again. If you lose it, please create a new key.
### Step 3: Use the API
Use your API key to authenticate requests from your application.
You can integrate the API using:
* REST endpoints
* Official SDKs (if available)
* Command-line tools
* Server-side applications
Please refer the section [API Endpoints](https://docs.flock.io/flock-products/api-platform/api-endpoint) for request formats, endpoints, and example code.
### Step 4: Buy credits
Before making requests, ensure your account has sufficient credits.
Navigate to **Settings → Billing** to purchase credits.
We support payments using Stripe, Base Pay, and Coinbase.
Credits are deducted automatically based on your API usage.
### Step 5: Track Usage
Monitor activity and costs in real time:
* **Logs tab** — View detailed request logs for selected time ranges, including status, latency, and errors
* **Usage tab** — Track total requests, token consumption, and average cost per request
This helps you debug issues, optimize usage, and manage spending.
### Step 6: Adding members to your organisation
Invite teammates to collaborate on the platform.
Go to **Teams → Members** to:
* Add new users
* Assign roles and permissions
* Manage access to API keys, billing, and logs
All members will operate under the same team workspace.
### Step 7: API Playground
Experiment with the API directly in your browser.
The Playground allows you to:
* Test different models
* Try prompts and parameters
* View responses instantly
* Generate sample code for integration
It’s the fastest way to explore capabilities before building your application.
