How do I connect my first API to an automation platform?

Get your API credentials

Start by finding your API key or authentication token from the service you're connecting. This is usually in account settings or developer console. Keep it private—treat it like a password.

Choose your automation tool

Pick a platform that supports HTTP requests or has a native integration for your service. Most platforms (Zapier, Make, n8n, Integromat) let you add custom webhooks or REST calls without coding.

Set up the basic connection

In your automation platform, create a new action or module. Select HTTP request or the service's native connector. Paste your API credentials into the authentication field. Test the connection by making a simple request—like fetching your account info—to confirm it works.

Map your data

Once connected, you'll see what data the API returns. Map fields from your trigger (like a form submission) to the API request body. Save and test the full workflow with real data before going live.

Start simple: get one API call working before building complex multi-step automations.