Get to know the ChatGPT screen

When you first open ChatGPT you may see many unfamiliar buttons. To begin, you only need a few. It is like a new phone: first learn to call and text. After this lesson the screen will no longer feel confusing.

Four things to know first:

• Message box: where you type your question.
• New chat: starts a new topic.
• Add files and more: adds a file or image to your question.
• Settings: where you change your options.

Tip: give each topic its own chat so information does not get mixed up. Ignore other features until you need them.

Step by step

1. Open ChatGPT

   On a computer or phone, open a web browser and go to chatgpt.com. You can also click "Open ChatGPT" in this lesson's prompt box.

2. Find the message box

   Find the empty box with a hint such as "Ask ChatGPT". Click it and type a word, without sending yet.

3. Open the sidebar

   Find the sidebar on the left with "New chat". On phones it is usually collapsed, so tap the menu icon.

4. Find the add file button

   Look in the message box for the "Add files and more" button. Hover to see its name. No need to upload anything.

What did you learn?

• You only need a few main spots to start.
• Give each topic its own chat.
• Screens change, so look for a button with a similar meaning.