How to use ChatGPT: the complete guide (2026)
From opening chatgpt.com to really getting the most out of it: account, plans, temporary chat, memory, privacy settings and requests that work.
What ChatGPT is and what changed in October 2026
ChatGPT is OpenAI’s AI assistant. You write to it in normal language and it replies. Since 7 October 2026, OpenAI has been rolling out GPT-6 in chat for every plan. According to its official announcement:
- The Free and Go plans use GPT-6 Luna; Plus, Pro, Business and Enterprise use GPT-6 Sol.
- “Intelligent UI” arrives: some answers include charts, buttons, forms or small tools (a calculator, a bill splitter…) inside the conversation.
- It can start answering while it’s still thinking, so you wait less.
If you don’t see it in your account yet, that’s normal: rollouts are gradual.
Getting started in 5 minutes
- Go to chatgpt.com or install OpenAI’s official app. Watch out for copycat apps in the stores.
- Try it without an account if you like. To keep your history, sign up with your email.
- Set up privacy (next section) before telling it anything personal.
- Write your first request with context, like the prompt below.
Privacy settings you should know
According to OpenAI’s help centre:
| Setting | What it does | Where |
|---|---|---|
| Improve the model for everyone | If you turn it off, your new conversations aren’t used for training | Settings → Data controls |
| Temporary chat | Stays out of your history, creates no memories and isn’t used for training. OpenAI may keep a copy for up to 30 days for safety | “Temporary” button when opening a chat |
| Memory | Remembers things about you across conversations to personalise answers | Settings → Personalisation |
| Export data / delete account | Available on Free, Go, Plus and Pro from settings | Settings → Data controls |
A detail almost nobody knows: if you tap thumbs up or down on an answer, OpenAI says the whole conversation may be used for training, even if you turned the setting off.
Requests that work
Simple formula: context + task + format + tone.
- ❌ “Write me an email.”
- ✅ “I live in flat 3B. Write a polite email to the building manager asking them to fix the entrance light, which has been out for a week. 100 words maximum.”
Three time-saving tricks:
- Ask it to ask you: “Before answering, ask me any questions you need.”
- Ask for a format: “as a table”, “in 5 bullet points”, “in one paragraph”.
- Set the language: “in British English, informal tone”.
Common mistakes
- Believing everything. ChatGPT can make things up (hallucinations). Verify figures, laws and dates.
- Asking for professional advice. It doesn’t replace a doctor, lawyer or tax adviser.
- Giving no context. Generic answers usually come from generic requests.
- Using fake apps. Only download it from the official website or the app stores, published by OpenAI.
Frequently asked questions
Does ChatGPT work in my language?
Yes. You can write to it and ask for answers in English or many other languages. If it uses the wrong variety (e.g. US instead of UK English), just tell it.
Can I use ChatGPT without signing up?
Yes, OpenAI lets you use it without signing in, with limited features. Even signed out you can turn off model training in Settings; that choice is saved in your browser.
What’s the difference between the free plan and the paid ones?
According to OpenAI, since October 2026 the Free and Go plans use the GPT-6 Luna model, while Plus, Pro, Business and Enterprise use GPT-6 Sol. Paid plans also offer higher usage limits and extra features. Check current prices on the official website before subscribing.
If I turn off training, are my chats deleted?
No. Turning off “Improve the model for everyone” only affects whether new conversations are used for training. To delete, remove the chat or the account. Note: if you rate an answer with a thumbs up or down, that conversation may be used for training.
Keep reading
Sources
- Data controls in ChatGPT — OpenAI Help Center
- Temporary chat in ChatGPT — OpenAI Help Center
- GPT-6 and Intelligent UI for everyone (7 oct 2026) — OpenAI
- Política de privacidad para usuarios del EEE — OpenAI
Change log
- : First published, including the GPT-6 changes in ChatGPT (7 Oct 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.