4 free ChatGPT features worth switching on today

Step by step

1. 01

   Step 1: Search: get answers with current sources

   ChatGPT may search the web by itself when a question needs current information. To start a search yourself, open a conversation, select View all tools, then select Search. You can also type / in the message box and select Search. OpenAI's help page says answers can include citations: select one to open its source. It also says results can be incomplete, outdated or wrong, so open the source when accuracy matters.

   Prompt to copy

   Search the web: what are the opening hours and ticket prices for [a museum or place near you] this week? Give me the sources.

   Tip: OpenAI's help page says ChatGPT may use an approximate location from your IP address. Sharing your device location is optional and off by default.

2. 02

   Step 2: Voice: talk instead of type

   On the web, go to ChatGPT.com and select the Voice icon in the prompt window. On iOS and Android, select the Voice icon in the message bar. Allow microphone access if asked, then start speaking. OpenAI's help page lists Free as having limited access to GPT-Live-1 mini, and says the limits may change.

   Prompt to copy

   Help me practise a job interview for [job title]. Ask me one question at a time, wait for my answer, then give me one tip.

   Tip: You can switch between Live, Advanced and Standard under Settings, then Voice, depending on what your account offers.

3. 03

   Step 3: Study mode: learn it, do not just get the answer

   Study mode asks questions and explains step by step instead of only giving a final answer. On the web, type @study in the message box, or select + and type study, then select Study from the suggestions. On iOS and Android, select + and then Study. You can also go to chatgpt.com/studymode. OpenAI's help page says it is available across ChatGPT plans. It is not available in Temporary Chats, GPTs or Projects.

   Prompt to copy

   Teach me [a topic] from the beginning. Start with what I already know, then quiz me one question at a time and wait for my answer.

   Tip: You can upload class notes, a worksheet or a photo of a problem, and study mode can refer to it.

4. 04

   Step 4: Custom instructions: set your style once

   Custom instructions apply to all your chats. On the web and desktop, open Settings, select Personalization, make sure Enable customization is on, then type in the Custom Instructions field. On iOS and Android, open Settings, select Customize ChatGPT, then do the same. OpenAI's help page says they are available on all plans, and that Free and Go users can save up to 1,500 characters.

   Prompt to copy

   Use plain words and short sentences. Give the answer first, then the reasons. If you are not sure, say so.

   Tip: Changes apply to future conversations. OpenAI's help page says information from your use of custom instructions may be used to improve model performance, with an opt-out.