How To Enable And Use Custom Instructions In ChatGPT [2023]

ChatGPT gets a new feature called Custom Instructions giving OpenAI chatbot a memory capability. Basically, GPT-3 and GPT-4 can now remember personalized responses and user preferences. With the introduction of the ability to memorize user preferences across conversations, Custom Instructions enable ChatGPT to spit out tailored responses to your requirements and needs. However, the new feature is launching in beta for now. And only ChatGPT Plus users. Here’s how to use Custom Instructions and enable it on your device.

Recently, OpenAI announced an update to ChatGPT, making it possible for users to input custom instructions applicable to both ongoing and future conversations. The new feature is expected to arrive for all users in the coming weeks.

use custom instructions chatgpt

Custom Instructions: A New Way To Communicate That Remembers Your Preferences

Up until now, ChatGPT typically regards each new conversation as a fresh session starting from scratch without taking cues from any context from previous chats.

However, the new custom instructions feature allows it to instantly recall your information and preferences across conversations.

User feedback spurred OpenAI to roll out this feature:

“Through our conversations with users across 22 countries, we’ve deepened our understanding of the essential role steerability plays in enabling our models to effectively reflect the diverse contexts and unique needs of each person.”

custom instructions in chatgpt

How To Use Custom Instructions:

Along with the official announcement, OpenAI also provided some examples of how you can use custom instructions:

  • A teacher might indicate that they are creating a science lesson plan for third graders, enabling ChatGPT to offer suitable answers for that age group without requiring further prompts.
  • A programmer might specify their favored coding language, causing ChatGPT to use that language by default.
  • A person arranging meals for an extensive family might make a point of acknowledging the requirement for six servings, ensuring that grocery lists factor in this necessity.

Furthermore, personalized commands are available in ChatGPT Chrome extensions, plugins, and Bing AI. In the case of employing a plugin for restaurant reservations, it could take into account your geographical details while providing suggestions for booking dining places.

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Custom Instructions Beta Testing And Roll Out:

OpenAI acknowledges that throughout the beta testing phase, there might be instances when ChatGPT doesn’t accurately adhere to or implement individualized directions.

The system might omit or misconstrue certain instructions provided by users. Nevertheless, OpenAI has implemented safety precautions.

The Moderation API hinders the preservation of instructions that contravene OpenAI’s content guidelines.

Moreover, ChatGPT has the capability to decline or dismiss instructions that could lead to replies that breach those guidelines.

How To Enable Custom Instructions And Use New Memory Feature:

To enable custom instruction, if you’re using the web version of ChatGPT, click on your name > Settings > Beta features > Opt into Custom instructions.

chatgpt beta features

On iOS devices, head over to Settings > New Features > Turn on Custom instructions. Custom instructions will appear in settings.

Once you enable custom instructions, click on your name after which it will appear in the menu.

Select it, and then you’ll see the two tet boxes where you are eligible to answer the following questions:

  • What would you like ChatGPT to know about you to provide better responses?
  • How would you like ChatGPT to respond?

custom instructions chatgpt

When you click each box, you’ll see various suggestions for different instructions you can enter.

custom instructions suggestions chatgpt

custom instructions suggestion chatgpt

Finally, click the Save button at the bottom when you’re done.

Summary:

ChatGPT possesses the ability to retain user preferences and adjust its responses accordingly.

Although the concept of personalized instructions is promising, it is still undergoing beta testing, which could lead to occasional errors.

Backed by adequate safety protocols, these custom instructions represent an intriguing step forward in achieving AI interactions that are both more individualized and beneficial.