ChatGPT Beginner Guide: 5-Step Setup from Login to File Upload

Starting ChatGPT: Two ways to begin for free

ChatGPT can be used for free without logging in, but logging in enables chat history storage, file uploads, and image generation. Access begins by visiting https://chatgpt.com in a web browser or installing the mobile app. Without logging in, chat history is not saved, and users can sign up using an email address or Google account after logging in.

The free version uses the GPT-3.5 model, while the paid Plus version uses GPT-4 with faster response speeds. The Plus version costs $20 per month and does not offer a free trial, so a feature comparison is recommended before subscribing.

How to start without logging in

ChatGPT can be used for free without logging in, but chat history is not saved, and file upload and image generation features are limited. Visit https://chatgpt.com in a web browser and click the "Continue chatting" button at the bottom of the screen. Enter a question in the prompt input field to receive an immediate response.

Without logging in, all chat history is deleted if browser cookies are cleared. Logging in is required to use file upload and image generation features.

Features available after logging in

After logging in, chat history is saved, allowing users to resume previous conversations, and file upload and image generation features become available. Users can sign up using an email address or Google account, then log in to view saved chats and settings.

File uploads are supported for text, PDF, image, audio, and video files up to 50MB. Image generation is provided for free and can be requested by including phrases such as "create an image" in the prompt.

Writing prompts and reviewing responses

ChatGPT is trained to follow instructions in prompts and provide detailed responses. Entering specific questions in the prompt input field yields more accurate answers.

For example, asking "What is the free version limit of ChatGPT in South Korea as of 2024?" returns a response explaining the limits and restrictions of the free version. Responses are provided in text, tables, code blocks, and other formats, and conversations can be continued with additional questions if needed.

Practicing file uploads and image generation

File uploads are supported for text, PDF, image, audio, and video files up to 50MB. After uploading a file, users can conduct Q&A based on the file contents.

Image generation is provided for free and can be requested by including phrases such as "create an image" in the prompt. Generated images are provided in PNG format with a maximum resolution of 1024x1024 pixels.

1. Access the ChatGPT website.
2. Click "Continue chatting" without logging in or start a chat after logging in.
3. Enter a question in the prompt input field.
4. If file upload is needed, click the file icon to select a file.
5. If image generation is needed, include "create an image" in the prompt.
6. Review the generated response or image and enter additional questions if needed.

Installing and setting up the mobile app

The ChatGPT mobile app is available for free on iOS and Android. Search for "ChatGPT" in the app store, install it, then log in or start using it for free.

The app provides the same features as the web version and allows users to enable push notifications to receive new responses immediately. Logging in is required to use file upload and image generation features in the app.

Frequently asked questions

Can the GPT-4 model be used in the free version?

No. The free version uses the GPT-3.5 model, while the GPT-4 model is only available in the paid Plus version. The Plus version costs $20 per month and does not offer a free trial.

What file formats are supported for uploads?

Supported formats include text, PDF, image, audio, and video files. The maximum file size is 50MB. Supported file formats are listed in OpenAI’s official documentation as text (.txt), PDF (.pdf), images (.jpg, .png, .jpeg), audio (.mp3, .wav), and video (.mp4, .mov).

Is image generation free?

Yes. Image generation is provided for free. Requests can be made by including phrases such as "create an image" in the prompt. Generated images are provided in PNG format with a maximum resolution of 1024x1024 pixels.

Can all features be used without logging in?

No. File upload and image generation features require logging in. Without logging in, chat history is not saved, and all chat history is deleted if browser cookies are cleared.

Which models does ChatGPT use?

The free version uses the GPT-3.5 model, while the paid Plus version uses the GPT-4 model. ChatGPT is a sibling model of InstructGPT, trained to follow instructions in prompts and provide detailed responses.