ChatGPT is one of the most popular AI assistants. You can ask it questions, have it write or edit text, brainstorm ideas, explain topics, analyse files and much more. Here's how to get the most out of it from day one.
Getting started
Create an account on the official website or app, type a message and press enter. That's it. The free plan is a good place to start; paid plans typically offer more capable models, higher limits and extra features.
Ask better questions
Instead of a vague request, include:
- Context: who you are and what you're working on
- Task: exactly what you want it to do
- Format: length, structure, tone
I run a small bakery. Write 5 short Instagram captions announcing our new sourdough, friendly tone, each under 25 words, with one emoji.
Keep the conversation going
ChatGPT remembers what you said earlier in the same chat. Refine results with follow-ups: "make it shorter", "more playful", "give me 3 more options", "explain this part again more simply".
Useful features to explore
- Uploading documents, images or spreadsheets for analysis (avoid sensitive data)
- Voice conversations
- Image generation
- Web search for recent information
- Custom instructions so it remembers your preferences
Features vary by plan and change over time, so check what's available in your account.
Stay safe and accurate
- Double-check facts, numbers and sources.
- Don't share passwords, financial details or other people's private information.
- Use it to support your thinking, not replace it.
Next step
Try five prompts from our library this week. Copy one, fill in the [brackets] with your details and see how much time you save.