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Easy AI How-To

IntermediateChatGPTProductivity

Build a custom GPT for a task you repeat

A custom GPT is a version of ChatGPT with your own instructions and files built in, so a repeated task gets the same rules every time. This guide follows OpenAI's current builder, and notes which plans can use it.

Time
About 20 minutes
Checked
Tool
ChatGPT GPTs

If a button name on the screen does not match this guide, follow the action. These products rename buttons often.

Steps

  1. Open the GPT builder

    In ChatGPT, open Explore GPTs in the sidebar or go to chatgpt.com/gpts, then select Create.

  2. Choose how to build

    The builder has two modes: a conversational builder (you describe the GPT and ChatGPT drafts it) and a configuration view where you edit the fields yourself. Use the configuration view for precise control.

  3. Fill in name, description, and instructions

    Instructions are the most important field. Say what the GPT does, the steps it follows, the tone, and what it must not do.

    Prompt to paste

    You answer customer questions for [company].
1. Answer only from the Knowledge files. Quote the section you used.
2. If the files don't cover it, say so and suggest emailing [support address].
3. Keep answers under 120 words, friendly and plain.
Never promise refunds or discounts.

  4. Add knowledge and capabilities

    Under Knowledge, upload your reference files. Use knowledge for facts and reference material, and keep rules in the instructions. Turn on only the capabilities you need, such as web search or data analysis.

  5. Test in Preview

    Use the Preview panel to ask 5 to 10 real questions, including tricky ones the files don't cover. Fix the instructions whenever an answer breaks a rule.

  6. Save and share

    Select Create to save a new GPT (or Update for an existing one) and choose who can use it in your workspace.

Tips

  • Add conversation starters so teammates know what to ask.

  • Text-heavy files work better than complex layouts or scanned pages.

  • Keep a list of your test questions and rerun them after each edit.

Common questions

I have ChatGPT Plus. Why can't I create a GPT?

As of OpenAI's current help pages, new GPT creation is limited to Business, Enterprise, and Edu workspaces. On a personal plan, a ChatGPT Project with instructions and files is the closest option.

What's the difference between Knowledge and Instructions?

Instructions say how to behave. Knowledge gives the GPT source material to draw from.

Can a GPT call other apps?

Yes, through actions or apps that call outside APIs. That needs extra setup and an admin may need to allow it.

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