If you're new to FileMaker® and don't know where to start, you're in luck! We've been working with FileMaker since 2003 on hundreds of projects, and we want to share our expertise with beginners like you. This collection of resources will help you get started building custom FileMaker Apps today. 

1. Claris® Academy

Claris® Academy is a perfect place to start your FileMaker journey. They offer personalized learning plans to build your skills and help you reach your goals, no matter your skill level. Through a combination of written instruction, videos, and interactive activities, you'll be well on your way to building your first app. 

2. Claris® Marketplace

On Claris Marketplace, you can explore products created by FileMaker experts, like apps, templates, and training materials. Pre-built apps and templates make it easy to get FileMaker up and running quickly- use them as a starting point and add build-ons for your custom app. 

3. Claris® Community- New to FileMaker

Join the Claris Community to learn from FileMaker experts and enthusiasts from all over the world. Ask questions, find answers, or just read up on popular topics you're interested in. You can also join groups based on your interest or skill level, like the New to FileMaker group, to ask questions about building your first app or using FileMaker for the first time. 

4. Claris® Support

Knowledge Base
Claris has an extensive Knowledge Base with all the resources you need and answers to any question you can think of. You can filter your search by product, version, or date posted. 

Updates and Release Notes
With Updates and Release Notes, you can view release notes for any version of FileMaker for Cloud, Mac, Windows, or Linux. These release notes provide information about each version, including new features and how-tos. 

Product Documentation Center
Claris also provides a Product Documentation Center, a one-stop-shop where you can view all product documentation for different FileMaker products. This includes release notes, installation and setup guides, help guides, security guides, and more. If you don't find what you're looking for, Claris is always accepting feedback to improve customer satisfaction. 

5. DIY Custom App eBook

Download Claris' free ebook to learn the essentials for building a custom app. It covers three essential principles:

1. Planning- Evaluate what is unique about your business, and the book will walk you through some guidelines that will help define your app in terms of your business needs. 

2. Creating- Learn the essential tools of FileMaker to bring your ideas to life

3. Deploying- Assess your business needs and deploy on-premise or in the cloud

6. Templates

If you need some help and don't know where to start building, Claris' Templates can be a great place to begin. This is a great resource because many of the templates and sample files were created by FileMaker experts and Claris partners, and some are completely free. Just download the templates and sample files that best fit your needs.

7. Events

Find inspiration for your custom web app with Claris Events. They offer meetups, workshops, conferences, training, and even on-demand webinars. Filter by location or event type to find the event that's perfect for your needs. 

Conclusion

We hope these FileMaker beginner resources provide a solid foundation for you to build upon to create your first custom app with FileMaker! Contact our FileMaker experts at DB Services if you have any questions or need help developing your custom app.