How to Install a Fusion Drive into a Mac mini Running Mavericks

In order to speed up my computer without the expense of a large SSD, I just finished installing a DIY Fusion Drive into my 2011 Mac mini with great success. (This should work for Yosemite as well with minor modifications). I didn't expect the need to write about it but there were enough lessons and deviations that I'll describe them. Originally the Fusion Drive was released using Mountain Lion so most write-ups have not been updated for the newer OS X Mavericks. 

Update 10/24/2019: See also my post about setting up a proper recovery partition and fixing macOS installation errors.

Assumptions: You have a working 2011 Mac mini running OS X Mavericks with a single HDD and want to install a second drive (an SSD) internally to make a Fusion Drive.

First, the hardware, which I ordered all from Amazon. I chose:

• Mac mini dual drive kit from iFixit ($30) because I liked the included tools better than the similar kit from OWC (note: if prices are wonky, just order from the manufacturer directly or choose the other brand)

• Samsung 840 EVO 120GB SSD, because it was on sale and had good reviews
• That drive is now discontinued, so you might consider the Samsung 850 EVO