ChatGPT Custom Instructions: A Copyable Example
Set a reply language, tone and what ChatGPT should do when details are missing.
If you keep typing “answer in English, start with the point, keep it short,” set those defaults once in ChatGPT Custom Instructions. OpenAI says they apply across chats and can be edited or removed. Use them for steady preferences; give task-specific facts in the conversation where they matter.
Where to add them
On web or desktop, open Settings → Personalization → Custom Instructions and make sure customization is enabled. In the mobile app, go to Settings → Customize ChatGPT.
Reply in [language]. Lead with the direct answer and add only what I need to act. Use a [tone] tone. Keep explanations in short paragraphs; use numbered steps only for procedures. If key information is missing, ask instead of guessing. For facts that can change, check a current primary source, link it, and say what you could not verify.
Choose one tone and remove rules that do not fit. Keep changing names, dates and task details out of a permanent instruction. Do not put passwords, customer details or work secrets here; OpenAI says information from Custom Instructions may be used to improve its models.
This is an editable example, not an official OpenAI template or a promise that every response will follow it perfectly.