Documentation

Extension Creator produces editable Chrome extension source code using Manifest V3. This documentation explains how to describe a project, understand the generated files, test with Load Unpacked, request revisions, and prepare the source for publishing.

Describe the Chrome extension project

Start with the extension’s main goal. Explain who will use it, what action starts it, where it should work, and what result the user should receive. Specific instructions create a better foundation than a long list of unrelated features.

Useful details include:

  • The extension name and purpose
  • Target websites or URL patterns
  • Buttons, forms, popups, side panels, or menus
  • Information that should be saved and when it should be cleared
  • The exact action that triggers the extension
  • Expected messages, downloads, or page changes
  • Colors, labels, and basic interface preferences

Chrome extension Manifest V3

Every valid Chrome extension includes a manifest.json file. The manifest identifies the extension, declares its version, lists required permissions, registers interface pages, and tells Chrome which scripts should run.

Manifest V3 uses a service worker for supported background behavior rather than the persistent background pages used by older extension versions. Generated projects should request only the permissions required for their stated features.

Common Manifest V3 permissions

A project may use permissions such as storage, activeTab, scripting, tabs, contextMenus, alarms, or sidePanel. Website access is normally declared separately through host permissions or content-script matching rules.

Understanding the generated source code

The exact files depend on the extension type. A project may contain:

  • manifest.json — configuration, permissions, and registered components
  • popup.html, CSS, and JavaScript — the toolbar popup interface
  • background.js — the Manifest V3 service worker
  • content.js — code that runs on approved webpages
  • options.html and JavaScript — saved extension settings
  • Side-panel or DevTools files when those interfaces are requested
  • Icons and a README with project notes

Your download contains editable Chrome extension source code. Keep an untouched backup before making manual changes.

Test with Load Unpacked

  1. Download the completed ZIP file.
  2. Extract or unzip it into a normal folder.
  3. Open chrome://extensions.
  4. Enable Developer mode.
  5. Select Load unpacked.
  6. Choose the folder that directly contains manifest.json.

After changing a file, return to chrome://extensions and reload the extension. Then refresh the webpage being tested. Read the complete installation guide for screenshots and additional help.

Request useful revisions

Each project includes up to 10 revisions. Describe the difference between the current behavior and the expected behavior. Include the trigger, website, result, and complete error message when one exists.

A useful revision says: “When I select Save in the popup, store the text and display it again when I reopen the popup.” A vague request such as “make it better” does not identify what should change.

Security and permission review

Test generated code before distributing it. Confirm that requested permissions are necessary, inspect external requests, review how information is stored, and verify that sensitive information is not exposed. Extension Creator generates a starting project; it does not replace security testing or legal review.

Publishing and further help

When testing is complete, prepare accurate Chrome Web Store disclosures, screenshots, listing copy, privacy information, and a production-ready ZIP. Follow the Chrome Web Store publishing guide. For installation or build problems, visit the Troubleshooting Center.

Create a Chrome Extension