What Are Custom GPTs?
Custom GPTs are personalized versions of ChatGPT that you can create for specific tasks. They're one of ChatGPT's most powerful features, and you don't need any coding skills to build one.
What Makes Custom GPTs Special
Think of a custom GPT as ChatGPT with a specific job. Instead of being a general assistant, your custom GPT can:
- Have a defined role: Act as a writing coach, recipe helper, or business advisor
- Follow your rules: Always respond in a certain tone or format
- Know your content: Access documents you upload for reference
- Start conversations smartly: Offer pre-written prompts users can click
Real-World Examples
Here are some popular custom GPTs people have built:
| GPT Type | What It Does |
|---|---|
| Resume Reviewer | Analyzes resumes and suggests improvements |
| Meal Planner | Creates weekly meal plans based on dietary preferences |
| Code Explainer | Breaks down complex code for beginners |
| Email Writer | Drafts professional emails in your voice |
| Language Tutor | Practices conversation in your target language |
Who Can Create Custom GPTs?
Anyone with a ChatGPT Plus, Team, or Enterprise subscription can create custom GPTs. Free users can use GPTs others have made, but cannot create their own.
The GPT Builder Interface
You'll create your custom GPT using the GPT Builder, which offers two modes:
- Create Mode: A conversational interface where you describe what you want
- Configure Mode: Direct access to all settings for fine-tuning
Most people start in Create mode and switch to Configure for adjustments.
What You'll Build in This Course
By the end of this course, you'll create a fully functional custom GPT. You might build:
- A personal writing assistant that matches your style
- A specialized helper for your hobby or profession
- A study buddy for a subject you're learning
- A tool to help with repetitive tasks at work
Requirements
To follow along, you'll need:
- A ChatGPT Plus subscription ($20/month) or Team/Enterprise access
- A web browser (ChatGPT works best on desktop for building GPTs)
- An idea for what you want your GPT to do (we'll help you refine it!)
Key Takeaway
Custom GPTs let you create specialized AI assistants without any programming. They're perfect for repetitive tasks, specific domains, or any situation where you find yourself giving ChatGPT the same instructions repeatedly. In the next lesson, we'll help you plan exactly what your GPT should do.