Best AI for studying (2026): ChatGPT study mode and Gemini Notebook
A comparison of AI tools for studying: ChatGPT study mode, Gemini Notebook (NotebookLM) and a general assistant. What each does, free limits and how to use them without copying.
Date checked: 16 October 2026. Features and plans change; always check the official site.
To study, it isn’t enough for AI to give you the answer. These tools are designed to help you understand, not just finish.
| ChatGPT study mode | Gemini Notebook (NotebookLM) | General assistant | |
|---|---|---|---|
| What for | Guides you with questions, hints and quick quizzes | Answers only from your sources | Explaining, summarising, creating exercises |
| Free | Yes, signed in | Yes, up to 50 sources | Yes, with limits |
| Your notes | You can upload files (limited on Free) | PDF, Word, PowerPoint, Docs, web pages, public YouTube videos and audio | Depends on plan |
| Audio | — | Transcribes audio on import (incl. Spanish and Catalan) | Depends on tool |
| Watch out | Can make mistakes; OpenAI says so | Paywalled pages and videos without captions aren’t imported | Can make up facts |
What to use when
- A topic is hard for you: ChatGPT study mode (“Study and learn”), which asks you questions instead of giving the solution.
- You have your notes or syllabus: Gemini Notebook, which answers from what you give it.
- Always: check facts and follow your school’s rules on AI use.
More ideas in studying with AI and for students in AI for students.
Frequently asked questions
Is ChatGPT study mode free?
Yes. OpenAI launched it for signed-in users on Free, Plus, Pro and Team, and its pricing page lists it as included in Free.
How many notes can I upload to Gemini Notebook?
Up to 50 sources on the free version, each up to 500,000 words or 200 MB, according to Google’s help.
Keep reading
Sources
- Introducing study mode — OpenAI
- Planes y precios de ChatGPT — OpenAI
- Add or discover new sources for your notebook — Google
Change log
- : First published with OpenAI’s study mode information and Gemini Notebook help checked on 16/10/2026.
Educational content, prepared with the help of AI tools, with sources cited. It is not a substitute for professional advice. Tools change fast: if you spot something out of date, write to us at contacto@cognenza.com. How we work.