How to Use ChatGPT Like a Pro for Better Results in 2026

Quick Start

This guide covers every ChatGPT feature:

• 入门 — Create your account and basic setup
• How to Use Text Generation — Write emails, essays, and content in seconds
• How to Use Data Analysis — Upload files and get instant insights
• How to Use Web Browsing — Get real-time information from the internet
• How to Use Advanced Models — Switch between GPT models for different tasks
• How to Use Audio & Speech — Have voice conversations with ChatGPT
• How to Use Powerful GPT Integrations — Find and use custom GPTs for any task
• How to Use AI Image Generation — Create images from text descriptions
• How to Use Study and Learn — Turn ChatGPT into your personal tutor
• How to Use Customized Projects — Save context and instructions for ongoing work

Time needed: 5 minutes per feature

Also in this guide: Pro Tips | Common Mistakes | 故障排除 | 定价 | 替代方案

Why Trust This Guide

I’ve used ChatGPT for over two years and tested every feature covered here. This how to use Chatgpt article comes from real hands-on experience — not marketing fluff or vendor screenshots.

ChatGPT is one of the most powerful 人工智能助手 tools available today.

But most users only scratch the surface of what it can do.

This guide shows you how to use every major feature.

Step by step, with screenshots and pro tips.

ChatGPT Tutorial

This complete ChatGPT tutorial walks you through every feature step by step, from initial setup to advanced tips that will make you a power user.

ChatGPT

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Getting Started with ChatGPT

Before using any feature, complete this one-time setup.

It takes about 3 minutes.

Watch this quick overview first:

Now let’s walk through each step.

Step 1: Create Your Account

Go to chatgpt.com in your browser.

Click “Sign Up” in the top right corner.

Enter your email or sign in with Google or Microsoft.

✓ Checkpoint: 检查你的 收件箱 for a confirmation email from OpenAI.

Step 2: Download or Access the App

You can use ChatGPT on the web at chatgpt.com.

OpenAI also offers apps for iOS, 安卓, Mac, and Windows.

Download the app from your device’s app store.

Log in with your new account.

Here’s what the dashboard looks like:

✓ Checkpoint: You should see the main chat screen with a message box.

Step 3: Complete Initial Setup

Click your profile icon in the top right corner.

Go to Settings and set up Custom Instructions.

Tell ChatGPT your name, role, and how you want responses formatted.

How to Use ChatGPT Text Generation

文本 一代 lets you write emails, essays, blog posts, and any content in seconds.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch Text Generation in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Start a New Chat

Click “New Chat” in the top left of the sidebar.

Type your request clearly in the message box.

Step 2: Write a Detailed Prompt

Include your audience, tone, and desired format in the prompt.

For example: “Write a professional email to my boss requesting a deadline extension.”

Here’s what this looks like:

✓ Checkpoint: You should see ChatGPT generating text in real time.

Step 3: Refine Your Output

Ask ChatGPT to make the text shorter, more formal, or adjust the tone.

You can also regenerate the response for a different version.

How to Use ChatGPT Data Analysis

数据分析 lets you upload spreadsheets and files for instant insights.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch Data Analysis in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Upload Your File

Click the paperclip icon in the message box.

Select a CSV, Excel, or PDF file from your computer.

Step 2: Ask a Specific Question

Type what you want to know about the data.

For example: “Show me monthly revenue trends and create a chart.”

Here’s what this looks like:

✓ Checkpoint: ChatGPT should display a chart or table with your data.

Step 3: Download Your Results

Click the download link to save any generated charts or files.

Ask follow-up questions to dig deeper into the data.

How to Use ChatGPT Web Browsing

网页浏览 lets you get real-time information from the internet.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch Web Browsing in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Ask a Current Question

Type a question that needs up-to-date information.

For example: “What are the latest tech news headlines today?”

Step 2: Review the Sources

ChatGPT will search the web and show cited sources.

Click any source link to verify the information directly.

Here’s what this looks like:

✓ Checkpoint: You should see numbered citations next to key facts.

Step 3: Ask Follow-Up Questions

Dig deeper into any topic with follow-up prompts.

ChatGPT remembers the context of your conversation.

How to Use ChatGPT Advanced Models

Advanced Models lets you switch between GPT models for different tasks.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch Advanced Models in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Open the Model Selector

Click the model name dropdown at the top of the chat.

You’ll see options like GPT-5.2, o3, and GPT-5.2 Thinking.

Step 2: Choose the Right Model

Use GPT-5.2 Instant for quick, everyday conversations.

Use the Thinking mode for complex math, coding, or reasoning tasks.

✓ Checkpoint: The selected model name should appear at the top of your chat.

Step 3: Test the Difference

Ask the same complex question using both Standard and Thinking modes.

Compare the depth and accuracy of each response.

How to Use ChatGPT Audio & Speech

Audio & Speech lets you have natural 嗓音 conversations with ChatGPT.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch Audio & Speech in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Enable Voice Mode

Tap the headphone icon in the bottom right of the chat screen.

Grant microphone permissions if prompted.

Step 2: Start Talking

Speak naturally and ChatGPT will respond with voice.

You can interrupt at any time to redirect the conversation.

✓ Checkpoint: You should hear ChatGPT respond in a natural-sounding voice.

Step 3: Choose Your Voice

Go to Settings and pick from several voice options.

Each voice has a different tone and personality.

How to Use ChatGPT Powerful GPT Integrations

Powerful GPT Integrations lets you find and use custom GPTs built for specific tasks.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch GPT Integrations in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Open the GPT Store

Click “Explore GPTs” in the left sidebar.

Browse categories like Writing, Productivity, Research, and Education.

Step 2: Select and Use a GPT

Click any GPT to open it in a new conversation.

Each GPT has specific instructions and knowledge built in.

✓ Checkpoint: You should see the custom GPT’s name and description at the top.

Step 3: Build Your Own GPT

Click “Create a GPT” and describe what you want it to do.

Upload reference files and set custom instructions.

How to Use ChatGPT AI Image Generation

AI图像生成 lets you create images from text descriptions using DALL-E.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch AI Image Generation in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Describe Your Image

Type “Create an image of…” followed by a detailed description.

Include style, colors, mood, and composition details.

Step 2: Review and Iterate

ChatGPT generates the image in about 15 seconds.

Ask for changes like “make it darker” or “add a mountain.”

✓ Checkpoint: You should see a generated image matching your description.

Step 3: Download Your Image

Click the image to see it full size.

Right-click and save it to your device.

How to Use ChatGPT Study and Learn

Study and Learn lets you turn ChatGPT into a personal tutor.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch Study and Learn in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Choose Your Subject

Tell ChatGPT what you want to learn and your current level.

For example: “Teach me Python basics. I’m a complete beginner.”

Step 2: Request Practice Material

Ask ChatGPT to create quizzes, flashcards, or study guides.

It will adapt the difficulty based on your responses.

✓ Checkpoint: You should have a structured lesson or quiz in the chat.

Step 3: Get Explanations

Ask “Explain this like I’m 10” for any complex topic.

ChatGPT adjusts its explanations to your level.

How to Use ChatGPT Customized Projects

Customized Projects lets you save context and instructions for ongoing work.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch Customized Projects in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Create a New Project

Click the “Projects” option in the left sidebar.

Name your project and add a description of its purpose.

Step 2: Add Files and Instructions

Upload reference documents, style guides, or data files.

Write custom instructions that apply to every chat in this project.

✓ Checkpoint: Your uploaded files should appear in the project panel.

Step 3: Start Working in the Project

Open a new chat within the project.

ChatGPT automatically uses your uploaded files and instructions.

ChatGPT Pro Tips and Shortcuts

After testing ChatGPT for over two years, here are my best tips.

键盘快捷键

Hidden Features Most People Miss

• Custom Instructions: Go to Settings and tell ChatGPT how you want all responses formatted. This saves you from repeating preferences.
• Memory Feature: ChatGPT can remember facts about you across chats. Tell it your job title, preferences, and writing style once.
• Chat Search: Use the search bar in the sidebar to find any past conversation by keyword. Most people never use this.

ChatGPT Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake #1: Writing Vague Prompts

Mistake #2: Trusting Every Answer Without Checking

Mistake #3: Starting a New Chat for Every Question

ChatGPT Troubleshooting

Problem: ChatGPT Is Slow or Not Responding

Cause: High server traffic during peak hours or a poor internet connection.

使固定： Refresh the page, try a different browser, or wait a few minutes. Plus users get priority access during busy times.

Problem: ChatGPT Gives Incorrect or Outdated Information

Cause: The model’s training data has a cutoff date and it may hallucinate facts.

使固定： Enable Web Browsing for current topics. Always fact-check important claims.

Problem: File Upload or Data Analysis Not Working

Cause: The file may be too large, corrupted, or in an unsupported format.

使固定： Reduce file size, convert to CSV or PDF, and try again. Check that you’re on a Plus or Pro plan.

📌 笔记： If none of these fix your issue, contact OpenAI support at help.openai.com.

ChatGPT是什么？

ChatGPT is an AI assistant tool that generates human-like text, analyzes data, browses the web, and creates images from text prompts.

Think of it like having a brilliant research assistant who never sleeps and can write, code, and create visuals on demand.

Watch this quick overview:

It includes these key features:

• Text Generation: Write emails, essays, blog posts, and code in seconds
• Data Analysis: Upload spreadsheets and get charts, insights, and summaries
• Web Browsing: Search the internet for real-time information with cited sources
• Advanced Models: Switch between GPT models tuned for speed or deep reasoning
• Audio & Speech: Have natural voice conversations hands-free
• GPT Integrations: Use or build custom GPTs for any specific task
• AI图像生成： Create images from text descriptions using DALL-E
• Study and Learn: Get personalized tutoring on any subject
• Customized Projects: Save context and instructions for ongoing work

For a full review, see our ChatGPT review.

ChatGPT Pricing

Here’s what ChatGPT costs in 2026:

免费试用： Yes, the Free plan is available forever with limited features.

退款保证： No refunds, but you can cancel anytime.

💰 Best Value: Plus at $20/month — it unlocks GPT-5.2 Thinking mode, DALL-E image generation, and 5x more messages.

ChatGPT vs Alternatives

How does ChatGPT compare? Here’s the competitive landscape:

Quick picks:

• Best overall: ChatGPT — Most features, largest ecosystem, and broadest model access
• Best budget: DeepSeek — Frontier-level reasoning at near-zero cost
• Best for beginners: Gemini — Simple interface with tight Google integration
• Best for research: Perplexity — Every answer includes cited sources

🎯 ChatGPT Alternatives

Looking for ChatGPT alternatives? Here are the top options:

• 🚀 Claude: Best for long-form writing and coding. Produces more nuanced and well-structured content than ChatGPT.
• 💰 Perplexity: AI-powered search engine that cites every source. Great for academic research and fact-checking.
• 🎨 格罗克： Built into the X platform with real-time social media data. Good for trend analysis and news.
• ⚡ DeepSeek: Open-source model with frontier reasoning at 95% less cost. Perfect for developers on a budget.
• 🔒 马努斯: AI agent that can complete multi-step tasks independently. Good for workflow 自动化.
• 🧠 安迪搜索： 视觉的 人工智能搜索引擎 that gives direct answers. Feels like chatting with a smart friend.
• 👶 You.com： Customizable AI search with multiple AI models in one place. Great for comparing model outputs.
• 🏢 双子座： Google’s AI assistant built into Gmail, Docs, and Sheets. Best if you live in Google Workspace.
• 🔧 副驾驶： Microsoft’s AI built into Word, Excel, and Teams. Ideal for Microsoft 365 power users.
• 🌟 宝可梦： Lightweight AI assistant focused on quick answers and daily productivity tasks.

For the full list, see our ChatGPT 的替代方案 guide.

⚔️ ChatGPT Compared

Here’s how ChatGPT stacks up against each competitor:

• ChatGPT vs Claude: ChatGPT has more features and plugins. Claude wins on writing quality and coding benchmarks.
• ChatGPT vs Perplexity: ChatGPT is better for content creation. Perplexity is better for sourced research.
• ChatGPT 对比 Grok： ChatGPT has a bigger ecosystem and more models. Grok gives faster real-time social data.
• ChatGPT vs DeepSeek: ChatGPT is easier to use. DeepSeek matches performance at a fraction of the cost.
• ChatGPT 对阵 Manus： ChatGPT is better for chat-based tasks. Manus excels at 自主 multi-step workflows.
• ChatGPT 对比 Andi Search： ChatGPT handles more task types. Andi is simpler and faster for quick web answers.
• ChatGPT 对比 You.com： ChatGPT has stronger models. You.com lets you switch between multiple AI models easily.
• ChatGPT vs Gemini: ChatGPT has more third-party integrations. Gemini works better inside Google apps.
• ChatGPT 对比 Copilot： ChatGPT is more flexible as a standalone tool. Copilot is better embedded in Microsoft apps.
• ChatGPT 对比 Pokee： ChatGPT offers much deeper capabilities. Pokee is lighter and faster for simple tasks.

Start Using ChatGPT Now

You learned how to use every major ChatGPT feature:

• ✅ Text Generation
• ✅ Data Analysis
• ✅ Web Browsing
• ✅ Advanced Models
• ✅ Audio & Speech
• ✅ GPT Integrations
• ✅ AI Image Generation
• ✅ Study and Learn
• ✅ Customized Projects

Next step: Pick one feature and try it now.

Most people start with Text Generation.

It takes less than 5 minutes.

常见问题解答

Can I use ChatGPT for free?

Yes. ChatGPT offers a free plan with access to GPT-5.2 Instant, limited image generation, and basic web browsing. The free plan has message caps that reset every few hours. For unlimited access to advanced models, you’ll need a paid plan.

How to use ChatGPT most effectively?

Write clear, detailed prompts that include your audience, desired format, and tone. Use follow-up messages to refine responses instead of starting new chats. Set up Custom Instructions so ChatGPT knows your preferences in every conversation.

How much does ChatGPT cost?

ChatGPT Free costs $0. ChatGPT Plus is $20 per month. ChatGPT Pro is $200 per month. Team plans start at $25 per user per month with annual billing. Enterprise pricing is custom based on organization size and needs.

What is ChatGPT and how does it work?

ChatGPT is an AI chatbot built by OpenAI. It uses large language models to understand your questions and generate human-like text responses. You type a prompt, and ChatGPT predicts the most helpful response based on patterns learned from billions of text documents.

Is ChatGPT safe to use?

ChatGPT is safe for general use. OpenAI has strong data 安全 practices and you can control your data through Settings. By default, your conversations may be used for training. You can turn this off in Data Controls. Avoid sharing sensitive personal information like passwords or financial details.