AI Shadow Writer
Get Started

Groq API Key Guide

AI Shadow Writer uses a bring-your-own-key model. This page explains what the key is for, how users connect it, and what usually goes wrong.

What a Groq API key is

A Groq API key is the credential that authorizes model requests through your Groq account. In AI Shadow Writer, the key is used to generate post drafts, regenerate drafts, revise text, and power the main AI writing workflow.

Why the bot uses BYOK

The product uses bring-your-own-key for a few reasons:

  • Users stay in control of their own AI usage
  • The bot does not need to absorb hidden model costs for every user
  • Scaling the bot becomes simpler and more transparent
  • Users can manage their own Groq quota and plan

How to get a Groq API key

Use the in-bot helper /groq_help. That command is the built-in Groq onboarding entry point. If a tutorial video is configured in the bot, it can appear there as well.

How to connect the key

Inside the bot, run /ai, then paste the API key when the bot asks for it.

You can later inspect or remove the connection with /ai_status and /ai_disconnect.

Common mistakes

  • Pasting the wrong key
  • Pasting a truncated key
  • Connecting a key that is no longer valid
  • Assuming the bot can generate posts before /ai is completed

Important note

Your own Groq account handles your AI usage. The bot provides the workflow, while you provide the model access through your own Groq key.