First conversation · About 10 minutes
How to use ChatGPT for the first time
ChatGPT works like a conversation: type what you need, read the reply and ask a follow-up. This guide walks through one low-risk task so you can learn the controls without sharing private information.
Before you begin
Use the official service
Open chatgpt.com or an official ChatGPT app linked from OpenAI. Depending on your region and the task, you may be able to try ChatGPT without an account; an account is needed for some features and for keeping chat history.
Pause before uploading anything
For this first conversation, use a made-up or general task. Do not upload identity documents, medical letters, financial statements or anything containing passwords or security answers.
Step by step
Have your first useful conversation
- 01Find the message box. It is the area where you type a question or instruction. OpenAI calls this a prompt.
- 02Type one clear task. Begin with something you already understand, such as improving a short message.
- 03Send the message. Use the send button or press Enter. Read the full reply before acting on it.
- 04Ask for one change. You can say “make it shorter”, “use plain English” or “give me three options”.
- 05Copy only the part you want. Check names, dates and facts, then edit the wording so it still sounds like you.
Safe first prompt
Help me write a friendly message inviting three friends for coffee next Tuesday afternoon. Ask which time between 2pm and 4pm suits them. Keep it under 80 words.
If the reply is too formal, continue in the same chat with: “Make it warmer and less formal.” You do not need to repeat the original request because ChatGPT can use earlier messages in that conversation.
Stay in control
Review privacy controls before regular use
Menus and labels can change, so use OpenAI’s current help pages if your screen looks different. In a signed-in personal account, Data Controls include the option to switch off “Improve the model for everyone”. OpenAI says new conversations will then not be used to train its models.
Temporary Chat is available for conversations you do not want in history or memory. OpenAI says Temporary Chats are not used for model training and may be retained for up to 30 days for safety purposes. This is an extra control, not permission to paste highly sensitive information.
Settings reduce risk; they do not remove it
Leave out private details whenever the task can be completed without them. Check current controls again before connecting other apps, uploading files or using a shared device.