Proposals reward people who write well. Proofs reward people who build well. If you are a developer who would rather be judged on working code, a 24-hour build challenge is a different kind of pitch.

Show2Build is a marketplace built around that idea. A client posts one brief and asks three developers for proof. Each developer gets the same requirements and assets and the same 24-hour window. Each builds a relevant slice of the client's real project, not a generic portfolio piece. The client then compares the working proofs, demo videos, prices and delivery plans, and chooses.

Developers can join to take part in live build challenges. This post is about how to make a strong proof, wherever you do it.

How to make a strong proof in 24 hours

1. Read the brief twice, then pick the slice. The client has asked for a small proof, so build one thing well, not five things badly. If the outcome is "visitors can book and pay a deposit", the slice is the booking form and its confirmation, not the whole system.

2. Make it run first, polish second. A working proof beats a beautiful mockup. Get the core flow working end to end early, then spend remaining time on the parts the client will notice.

3. Record a short demo. Clients see your proof next to two others. A short walkthrough that shows the flow working, and says what you chose to leave out, makes it easy to understand quickly.

4. Be clear on price and delivery. The client reviews prices and delivery plans alongside the proofs. Say what the full project would cost, what is included, and how you would deliver it in stages.

5. Use the same assets as everyone else. All three developers get identical assets. Differences should come from your work and judgement, so use what you were given and note anything you had to assume.

6. Say what you would do next. A proof is a slice of a project. Finish with a short list of what comes after, so the client can picture working with you.

Before you join

I'm not going to quote figures I can't confirm. Check the developer fees, eligibility and project terms on the site before you take part. The site also says that communication, agreements and payments are meant to stay on the platform, and that deposits, cancellations and disputes follow the project agreement.

Disclosure: I'm affiliated with Show2Build.