> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.ideogram.ai/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.ideogram.ai/plans-and-billing/ideogram-api.md).

# Ideogram API

Create API keys and track API usage in the Ideogram app. API calls spend the same credits as the app. The full API reference lives at developer.ideogram.ai.

The Ideogram API lets you generate and edit images from your own code. This page covers what you manage in the app. For endpoints, request formats and examples, see the [API reference at developer.ideogram.ai](https://developer.ideogram.ai).

## Open the API overview

Click your avatar, then **API**. This opens **Settings → API Overview**, which shows:

* **Credit balance**: the credits you have left. **Manage credits** opens Wallet & Billing.
* **Current plan**: the plan you're on.
* **Create an API key**, **View our docs** and **Track your usage**.
* **MCP server**: connect Ideogram to AI tools that support the Model Context Protocol.

<figure><img src="https://1799634369-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FzjhNby3LLsIikYuvxAJP%2Fuploads%2Fgit-blob-9981c92e171d12436624252e2591d6a710d2ee6b%2Fideogram-api-1.png?alt=media" alt="Settings API Overview page with the API Overview tab highlighted, showing Credit balance with Manage credits, Current plan, the Create an API key, View our docs and Track your usage cards, and MCP server"><figcaption><p>The API Overview page shows your credits, plan and where to start.</p></figcaption></figure>

**Usage costs**, under **API** in Settings, lists what each API call costs.

**API** at the bottom of the sidebar opens the developer platform instead, with **Dashboard**, **API Keys**, **Usage** and **Billing** tabs.

Keep your keys private. Anyone with a key can spend your credits.

## API calls use your regular credits

The API and the app share one credit balance. API calls spend the same credits as images you make in the app: your plan's monthly credits first, then credits you've bought. See [Plans and Credits](/plans-and-billing/available-plans.md#how-credits-work) and [Buying Extra Credits](/plans-and-billing/buying-extra-credits.md).