---
title: Introduction to Subgraph Development
sidebarTitle: Introduction
---

To start coding right away, go to [Developer Quick Start](/subgraphs/quick-start/).

## Overview

As a developer, you need data to build and power your dapp. Querying and indexing blockchain data is challenging, but The Graph provides a solution to this issue.

On The Graph, you can:

1.  Create, deploy, and publish Subgraphs to The Graph using Graph CLI and [Subgraph Studio](https://thegraph.com/studio/).
2.  Use GraphQL to query existing Subgraphs.

### What is GraphQL?

- [GraphQL](https://graphql.org/learn/) is the query language for APIs and a runtime for executing those queries with your existing data. The Graph uses GraphQL to query Subgraphs.

### Developer Actions

- Query Subgraphs built by other developers in [The Graph Network](https://thegraph.com/explorer) and integrate them into your own dapps.
- Create custom Subgraphs to fulfill specific data needs, allowing improved scalability and flexibility for other developers.
- Deploy, publish and signal your Subgraphs within The Graph Network.

### What are Subgraphs?

A Subgraph is a custom API built on blockchain data. It extracts data from a blockchain, processes it, and stores it so that it can be easily queried via GraphQL.

Check out the documentation on [Subgraphs](/subgraphs/overview/) to learn specifics.
