How to Use ChatGPT Custom Instructions

ChatGPT custom instructions let you set persistent preferences that apply to every conversation. Instead of repeating context or style requests, you configure them once and ChatGPT remembers across all chats.

1. Access the Custom Instructions menu. Click your profile picture in the bottom-left corner of the ChatGPT interface. Select 'Custom instructions' from the dropdown menu. If you don't see this option, ensure you have a ChatGPT Plus subscription and the feature is enabled in your account settings.
2. Configure your context information. Fill out the first text box labeled 'What would you like ChatGPT to know about you to provide better responses?' Include relevant details about your role, industry, experience level, and specific interests. Be specific about your background, preferred terminology, and any constraints you work within.
3. Set your response preferences. Complete the second text box asking 'How would you like ChatGPT to respond?' Specify your preferred communication style, response length, format preferences, and any specific approaches you want ChatGPT to take. Include preferences for tone, technical depth, and output structure.
4. Enable the custom instructions. Toggle the switch at the bottom of the custom instructions panel to 'On'. This ensures your instructions will be applied to all new conversations. The toggle must be active for the instructions to take effect.
5. Test your custom instructions. Start a new conversation and ask a question relevant to your field or interests. Observe whether ChatGPT's response reflects your specified preferences and context. The AI should demonstrate awareness of your background and follow your response guidelines without you restating them.
6. Refine your instructions. Return to the custom instructions panel to edit your preferences based on the responses you receive. Add more specific guidelines if ChatGPT isn't meeting your expectations, or remove instructions that aren't improving the output quality.