OpenAI’s custom instructions feature, which was initially available to ChatGPT Plus subscribers, has now been made accessible to all users. This new feature allows users to provide specific instructions to ChatGPT, eliminating the need to provide instructions at the beginning of each conversation. By adding descriptions in the ChatGPT settings, users can customize and calibrate the AI’s responses. Let’s explore this feature in more detail and see how users are leveraging it.
Customizing Your ChatGPT Experience
With the addition of custom instructions, a new setting is introduced in the ChatGPT profile on desktop or iOS. This setting applies to all conversations and saves users from the hassle of repeating instructions for each new chat session. By filling out the fields in ChatGPT settings, users can provide information about themselves and specify how they want ChatGPT to respond.
The custom instructions section in the settings comprises two text entry fields. The first field prompts users to share what they would like ChatGPT to know about them. It even provides suggestions such as “Where are you based?” and “What do you do for work?” This information helps ChatGPT understand the user better and tailor its responses accordingly.
The second field asks users how they want ChatGPT to respond. Users can specify whether they prefer a formal or casual tone from ChatGPT and whether they want it to have opinions on various topics or remain neutral. This level of customization allows users to shape their interactions with ChatGPT according to their preferences.
Diverse Applications of Custom Instructions
The introduction of custom instructions opens up a world of possibilities for users. Some applications of this feature are practical, while others are more unusual. Let’s explore a few examples:
1. Unconventional Use: One user shared a ChatGPT text output on social media that seemed to showcase “mildly disallowed behaviors” when they set the custom instruction to 1,500 repetitions of the letter “a” and an incomplete sentence. This unconventional use highlighted a known token repetition hack.
2. Improved Accuracy: Other users have reported using custom instructions to enhance ChatGPT’s accuracy and effectiveness. By providing specific instructions, users have been able to obtain more precise and relevant responses from the AI.
3. Literary Challenges: Some users have taken the opportunity to challenge ChatGPT’s creative abilities. For instance, one user shared a custom instruction that presented ChatGPT with a complex literary challenge. This showcases the versatility of the AI and its ability to adapt to different tasks.
OpenAI’s Approach to Privacy and Usage Policies
OpenAI assures users that it will not utilize instructions that violate its usage policies. However, it is important to note that if users opt-in to saving their chat history, OpenAI may use the data provided in the custom instructions. To protect personal information, users have the option to opt-out of saving their chat history.
While some users might have preferred more generic presets with simple yes-or-no functionality, OpenAI has chosen to introduce customization through personal details and requests. It is crucial for users to be mindful of their data privacy and understand how their information may be used within the context of ChatGPT’s custom instruction era.
In Conclusion
The availability of custom instructions for all ChatGPT users brings a new level of personalization and control to AI interactions. By providing specific instructions, users can shape their conversations with ChatGPT according to their preferences and needs. While some users have explored unconventional uses of this feature, others have found it valuable in improving accuracy and obtaining more relevant responses. OpenAI’s commitment to privacy and usage policies ensures that user data is handled responsibly. As we enter the era of custom instructions, users are encouraged to make the most of this feature while being mindful of their privacy settings.
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