> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://base-tech.gitbook.io/base/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://base-tech.gitbook.io/base/base-bigbang-language/1.-getting-started.md). # 1. Getting started Starting with BigBang is much easier than with some other smart contract languages. Despite the experimental tooling, you can already achieve great results. Learning through examples is the most effective way to master a new skill. The later chapters will present a challenge to build a few common smart contracts on your own. Emphasis will be placed on adhering to best practices and conducting thorough testing. If you are reading this book online, you are in for a special treat. All BigBang code snippets included here are interactive. Click the play button to execute the BigBang code and view the results or errors in your browser. However, the enjoyment doesn't end there. You can manipulate these code snippets by directly editing them. --- # Agent Instructions This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com. ## Querying This Documentation If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question. Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter, and the optional `goal` query parameter: ``` GET https://base-tech.gitbook.io/base/base-bigbang-language/1.-getting-started.md?ask=&goal= ``` `ask` is the immediate question: it should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language. `goal` is optional and describes the broader end goal you are ultimately trying to accomplish on behalf of the user. GitBook uses it to tailor the answer towards what is most useful for that goal. The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation. Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.