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ChatGPT 2024: What It Does and How to Use It

April 09, 2024
Written and researched by experts at AvadaLearn more about our methodology

By Sam Nguyen

CEO Avada Commerce

In this article, we’ll delve into the world of ChatGPT and explore its various applications, features, and insights, shedding light on its remarkable capabilities.

Key Takeaways

  • ChatGPT, a cutting-edge AI chatbot, offers diverse applications, from content generation to code assistance.
  • ChatGPT’s capabilities encompass summarization, keyword research, simplification of complex ideas, grammar correction, translation, and even playing games like Tic-tac-toe.
  • Users should be cautious of potential errors like network issues, capacity limits, and response formulation problems, along with strategies to address them.
  • ChatGPT Plus, priced at $20/month, provides benefits like faster response times, priority access to new features, and use of GPT-4.
  • ChatGPT’s expansion includes an official app for iPhone and Android devices, broadening accessibility.
  • The comparison between ChatGPT and Google Bard reveals distinct strengths and data sources for each.
  • OpenAI’s ChatGPT continues to shape human-AI interaction and influence various sectors with its innovation and potential.

What Do ChatGPT and GPT Stand For?

At the forefront, we have the definitions: 

  • ChatGPT stands for Chat Generative Pre-trained Transformer. 
  • GPT stands for Generative Pre-training Transformer. 

These terms delve into how ChatGPT manages your questions and comes up with answers. It’s basically a smart language tool and a framework for creating smart AI. OpenAI kickstarted this trend with the original GPT in 2018.

What Is ChatGPT All About?

ChatGPT

ChatGPT is an AI-powered chatbot exerting the capabilities of natural language processing to simulate lifelike conversational exchanges. Its linguistic prowess extends to addressing queries and constructing diverse textual forms – spanning articles, social media posts, essays, code scripts, and emails.

Functioning as a variant of generative AI, ChatGPT operates as a versatile instrument, allowing users to input prompts and receive AI-generated outputs in the form of human-like text, images, or videos. This parallels the automated chat services prevalent on customer service websites, permitting users to seek information and request elucidation in response to ChatGPT’s generated replies.

Latest Updates in ChatGPT (Till July 2023)

DateEvent
November 30, 2022ChatGPT was quietly launched to the public as OpenAI introduced GPT-3.5.
February 1, 2023OpenAI unveiled ChatGPT Plus, a subscription service starting at $20 per month.
February 7, 2023Microsoft released the new Bing search engine, featuring integrated ChatGPT capabilities.
March 1, 2023OpenAI introduced an API for ChatGPT, expanding its accessibility to developers.
March 9, 2023ChatGPT became available within the Azure OpenAI service.
March 14, 2023OpenAI launched GPT-4, accessible exclusively through ChatGPT Plus.
March 23, 2023ChatGPT gained internet connectivity, enhancing its functionality.
April 1, 2023Italy ordered a block on ChatGPT due to data privacy concerns.
April 4, 2023Startups backed by Y Combinator began developing ‘ChatGPT for X applications.
April 17, 2023Superchat introduced an innovative AI chatbot allowing interactions with historical and fictional characters via ChatGPT.
April 18, 2023The FTC cautioned about the potential for AI technologies like ChatGPT to amplify fraudulent activities.
April 22, 2023Auto-GPT emerged as Silicon Valley’s latest endeavor toward comprehensive automation.
April 25, 2023OpenAI unveiled ChatGPT Business, a new subscription tier.
April 29, 2023Italy lifted the ChatGPT ban following data privacy improvements.
May 18, 2023OpenAI launched a dedicated ChatGPT app for iOS users.
May 25, 2023The ChatGPT app expanded to 11 more countries.
May 26, 2023The ChatGPT app expanded its global reach, becoming available in over 30 countries.
May 30, 2023A Texas judge mandated the declaration and verification of all AI-generated content.
June 8, 2023The ChatGPT app expanded its accessibility, now available on iPads with added support for Siri and Shortcuts.
June 28, 2023The ChatGPT app gained the ability to perform web searches exclusively on Bing.
July 6, 2023OpenAI officially released GPT-4, the next iteration of their AI model.
July 20, 2023OpenAI introduced customized instructions for ChatGPT, enhancing user interactions.
July 21, 2023Exciting news for Android users – ChatGPT is coming to the Android platform.
July 25, 2023ChatGPT for Android became available in the US, India, Bangladesh, and Brazil.
August 10, 2023The ‘custom instructions’ feature extended its availability to free ChatGPT users.

ChatGPT Will Now Have Access To Real-Time Information

In an exciting announcement on Tuesday, May 23rd, 2023, Microsoft Corp., OpenAI’s main supporter, it was revealed that the OpenAI chatbot would team up with its Bing search engine. 

This partnership means that the chatbot can now explore the entire internet for answers, going beyond its previous limits of pre-2021 data. This upgrade lets the AI chatbot offer users up-to-the-moment information in response to their questions.

A Simple Guide to Using ChatGPT

Step 1: Begin by opening the official ChatGPT website or the mobile app

ChatGPT

Step 2: Once you’re in, the sign-up page will welcome you. If you’re new, hit the “Sign up” option. For existing users, click “Login” and then provide your email ID and password.

ChatGPT

Step 3: After hitting “Sign up,” you’ll be prompted to share your email address. Simply type it in and click “Continue.”

ChatGPT

Step 4: The next task is to set up a password for your account. Create one and then hit “Continue.”

ChatGPT

Step 5: Keep an eye on your inbox – OpenAI will send a verification email. Click on the link inside to verify your email ID.

Step 6: Now it’s time to fill in your details – first name, last name, and your organization’s name. A quick click on “Continue” takes you forward.

ChatGPT

Step 7: You’ll find yourself in the realm of the free version of ChatGPT, powered by the impressive GPT-3.5 technology.

ChatGPT

Step 8: Ready to chat? Type your message into the chatbox on ChatGPT’s homepage. 

And once the AI responds, you’ve got options galore:

  • Input a fresh prompt.
  • Generate another response.
  • Copy the reply.
  • Share the answer.
  • Show appreciation or give it a thumbs down.

Why Was ChatGPT Created?

Discover why ChatGPT came into existence and what it aims to achieve:

ChatGPT

The fundamental intent behind the inception of ChatGPT was to construct an AI model for conversation that could comprehend and generate text resembling human language. This innovative stride aimed to foster more intuitive and interactive connections between humans and machines.

Built upon deep learning techniques, specifically the Transformer architecture, ChatGPT harnesses an extensive array of parameters. Its fundamental mission revolves around comprehending and generating text akin to human discourse. OpenAI’s language models, exemplified by ChatGPT, function as potent tools, equipping developers and researchers to explore the frontiers of natural language processing and artificial intelligence. 

How Complex is ChatGPT?

Discover the range of parameters within GPT models, each version sporting a distinct figure. For example, GPT-1 encompasses 117 million parameters, whereas GPT-4 takes the lead with a staggering 170 trillion parameters. Here’s a breakdown of GPT versions, along with their respective parameter counts:

  • GPT-1: 117 million parameters
  • GPT-2: 1.5 billion parameters
  • GPT-3: 175 billion parameters
  • GPT-3.5: 1.3 billion, 6 billion, and 175 billion
  • GPT-4: 170 trillion parameters

These parameters play a pivotal role, empowering the model to grasp intricate language intricacies and produce responses that mirror human-like expressions.

Why Choose ChatGPT?

ChatGPT shines with its distinctive traits, making it exceptional in the AI landscape. Here’s why it stands out:

Firstly, ChatGPT excels at crafting human-like responses spanning a broad spectrum of topics. Its prowess in comprehending language is remarkable.

What’s more, its meticulous fine-tuning process, coupled with human feedback, bolsters its safety and utility. This refinement elevates ChatGPT into a precious tool applicable across diverse domains.

Notably, ChatGPT’s intelligence extends to respecting boundaries. It refrains from providing answers that are sexually inappropriate or potentially hurtful to various races and religions globally. This thoughtful approach underlines its ethical sensitivity.

Features of ChatGPT

ChatGPT comes packed with standout features that set it apart from traditional chatbots and other AI models. Let’s dive into what makes it so special:

  • Multilingual Flexibility: ChatGPT breaks language barriers with ease, understanding, and responding in a whopping 26 languages. Its context comprehension and language translation capabilities make it a versatile bridge for communication across diverse linguistic backgrounds.
  • Vast Vocabulary: Thanks to its exposure to an expansive 570 GB of internet text, ChatGPT naturally boasts an extensive vocabulary. It doesn’t just understand common words, phrases, and terms; it’s also adept at grasping technical and less common expressions.
  • Evolving Expertise: ChatGPT’s learning curve knows no bounds. With user feedback, it evolves and hone its language generation skills. The more it learns, the better it gets at crafting responses aligned with user preferences.
  • Seamless Conversations: Whether you’re switching topics or taking breaks, ChatGPT keeps the conversation flowing smoothly. Its knack for maintaining context ensures it remembers past discussions, making for fluid and uninterrupted interactions.
  • Code Generation: ChatGPT Plus isn’t just about words – it’s skilled at generating precise codes for websites and video games, showcasing its practical utility.
  • Image Interpretation: Beyond text, ChatGPT can understand images. By sharing an image link, you can ask questions related to the image’s content, and ChatGPT will impressively identify and interpret the visual elements.
  • Creative Flair: While ChatGPT excels at generating coherent responses, it can also flex its creative muscles. From poems and jokes to film plots and song lyrics, it demonstrates its prowess in crafting imaginative and enjoyable text.

Limitations of ChatGPT

The Limitations of the Free version:

  • Emotional Insight Shortfall: While ChatGPT can simulate empathy in its responses, it lacks true emotional intelligence. It can’t grasp nuanced emotional cues or aptly respond to intricate emotional scenarios.
  • Knowledge Gaps: The model’s training only extends up to September 2021. Consequently, ChatGPT might not possess the latest information on certain topics, leading to incomplete or outdated responses.
  • Contextual Limitations: Sarcasm and humor can sometimes escape ChatGPT’s comprehension. This means that if users employ sarcasm or humor, the AI might miss the intended meaning and produce responses that are off-kilter or irrelevant.
  • Potential Bias: ChatGPT’s training data is drawn from a vast array of text sources, which might harbor biases or prejudices. The AI could inadvertently generate responses that carry unintended biases or even discriminatory undertones.
  • Prompt Dependency: It’s noteworthy that ChatGPT’s responses can be sensitive to the way prompts are phrased. You might not receive an accurate answer with your initial query, but a well-timed rephrasing could yield the desired result on a second attempt.

The Limitations of CharGPT Plus:

  • Request Quotas: ChatGPT Plus does provide a boost, but it’s capped at processing 25 or 50 requests every 3 hours. Depending on ongoing developments, it might be restricted to 25 requests as the company navigates user demand management.
  • Word Threshold: Although there’s no official word limit, both regular ChatGPT and ChatGPT Plus operate within an informal limit of approximately 500 words or 4,000 characters. Unfortunately, ChatGPT Plus doesn’t extend any advantage beyond this limit.
  • Occasional Incorrect Responses: Even with its improvements, ChatGPT Plus isn’t immune to inaccuracies. There could be instances where it confidently presents incorrect answers to users.
  • Potential Bias: ChatGPT Plus can occasionally yield biased responses, just like its counterpart. Users should remain mindful that the AI’s outputs might inadvertently reflect biases. 

How ChatGPT Can Help You

ChatGPT offers support in writing and debugging code. It aids users in crafting essays on various subjects, showcasing its versatility. With its creative capabilities, ChatGPT is adept at generating imaginative stories and plots.

Beyond writing, ChatGPT extends its assistance to interior design by providing ideas and renovation concepts. The possibilities for tasks that ChatGPT can aid with are virtually limitless, making it an indispensable tool.

Engage in philosophical discussions with ChatGPT to explore profound ideas, although its responses may vary. You can also seek the bot’s input on practical matters, gaining an alternative perspective.

ChatGPT: Is It Safe?

Embracing ChatGPT for tasks such as answering questions, content generation, and coding comes with a reasonable level of safety. Keeping your information in mind while interacting is key.

Nonetheless, it’s important to note that as ChatGPT continues to learn and evolve, encountering incorrect or sensitive responses is a possibility. OpenAI, the creator of ChatGPT, cautions users about potential pitfalls. The official page emphasizes that while the chatbot strives to offer accurate information, there’s a chance of occasional inaccuracies. Moreover, the platform acknowledges the potential for generating biased or harmful content.

How Many People Use ChatGPT?

As per the most recent data, ChatGPT has garnered an impressive user count of over 100 million individuals. The website witnessed a remarkable 1.8 billion visits in June 2023.

OpenAI’s statistics reveal a swift journey for ChatGPT. In just five days after its November 2022 launch, it secured a million users. In contrast, Instagram took around 2.5 months to achieve the same milestone, while Netflix required approximately 3.5 years.

For a regional snapshot of ChatGPT users, refer to the following breakdown:

RankCountryThe proportion of ChatGPT Users
1US12.12%
2India7.61%
3Japan4.17%
4Brazil3.32%
5Colombia3.16%
Others (combined)69.62%

Source: Similarweb

Examples of ChatGPT Working.

Example 1: Making ChatGPT Write a Blog

Harnessing ChatGPT’s potential for blog writing is a smart move. It particularly shines in creating concise and targeted blog articles that revolve around a single theme. Its capabilities are well-suited for generating shorter posts on straightforward subjects.

Command example: Write a blog post titled “Tips for Training Your Dog to Come When Called.” Here’s how to utilize ChatGPT for blog writing.

ChatGPT

Example 2: Asking ChatGPT to Marry Me

In a playful interaction, I proposed the idea of marriage to ChatGPT, and its response was pleasantly direct.

ChatGPT

Example 3: Asking ChatGPT a Question on AI.

I initiated a prompt with ChatGPT, asking it to shed light on the extent to which AI could potentially take over human roles in the field of translation.

ChatGPT

Cool Ways to Use ChatGPT

Example 1: Using ChatGPT As a Summarizer

Looking to streamline your research or reading process? ChatGPT can be your go-to summarizer. Whether it’s a URL or a block of text, you can effortlessly request the chatbot to provide a concise summary, yielding prompt responses.

Expanding beyond mere summarization, you can take it up a notch. Ask ChatGPT to transform the response into bullet points or exclusively extract the essential points from the text. This feature showcases its intelligence and proves to be a remarkable time-saver.

ChatGPT

Example 2: Using ChatGPT For Keyword Research

Leverage the prowess of ChatGPT to enhance your keyword research approach. It lends a hand in various aspects, aiding you to:

  • Discover Lengthier Keyword Variations
  • Identify LSI Keywords
  • Organize and Cluster Keywords
  • Analyze Search Intent

A prime instance involves formulating an elaborate ChatGPT SEO prompt to craft a comprehensive keyword strategy, yielding astonishing outcomes!

ChatGPT
ChatGPT

Example 3: Using ChatGPT For Making Things Simpler

At times, comprehending technical or unfamiliar documents becomes a necessity. ChatGPT emerges as an adept guide, excelling in breaking down intricate concepts into more digestible portions, all explained in clear and concise terms.

A fundamental structure to unravel complexity is: “Explain [complex topic] as if I were 5.”

ChatGPT

Example 4: Using ChatGPT For Grammar Correction.

While not a dedicated grammar checker, ChatGPT can still identify errors and offer suggestions for rectification. For instance, after removing punctuation from a paragraph and pasting the plain text, ChatGPT punctuated it proficiently. The output was impressive, as depicted in the screenshot below.

ChatGPT

Example 5: ChatGPT for Translating Languages

Sure, Google can handle translation. But here’s where ChatGPT shines: Its translation prowess often surpasses Google Translate. Unlike its counterpart, the OpenAI chatbot delivers translations that aren’t just precise but also sound natural and easily comprehensible.

ChatGPT

Example 6: Playing Games With ChatGPT

Engaging in games like Tic-tac-toe with ChatGPT proves entertaining. Given its text-based interface, you can input your moves through position values. ChatGPT then crafts visual representations using Markdown language. The result? An enjoyable round of Tic-tac-toe, with ChatGPT as your dynamic partner.

ChatGPT

Another enjoyable game you can play with ChatGPT is Guess the ASCII Art.

ChatGPT

Example 7: Using ChatGPT’s Code Interpreter Plugin To Do Various Things

Converting Images to Animated GIFs

We tapped into ChatGPT to convert an image into an animated GIF. Witness how it turned out.

ChatGPT
ChatGPT

Data Visualization

ChatGPT

Taking data from the ‘Wholesale trade survey of March 2023,’ sourced from the Stats website, we instructed ChatGPT to craft graphs based on the CSV dataset. Observe the results ChatGPT generated.

ChatGPT

More Things You Can Do With ChatGPT

  • Programming Assistance
  • QR Code Generation
  • File Conversions

Does ChatGPT Have An Application?

ChatGPT

Indeed, ChatGPT has stepped into the realm of mobile convenience with its official app, available for both iPhones and Android phones. For iPhone users, the official iOS app can be found on the App Store. Similarly, Android users can access the ChatGPT app through the Google Play Store.

Keep in mind that while the app spans over 45 countries, there might be regions or devices where it doesn’t function as expected.

Important Note: Vigilance is advised, as several counterfeit ChatGPT applications are present on both the Apple and Android app stores. Exercise caution when encountering such offerings.

ChatGPT Costs

ChatGPT

ChatGPT Free Access: Utilizing the GPT-3.5 model, ChatGPT offers a no-cost usage option.

ChatGPT Plus Subscription: Opting for ChatGPT Plus entails a monthly fee of $20. This subscription package comes with a range of advantages:

  • Enhanced Response Speeds: ChatGPT Plus subscribers enjoy quicker response times, even during periods of high usage.
  • Priority Entry: Subscribers gain priority access to ChatGPT, even during peak demand times.
  • Exclusive GPT-4 Access: ChatGPT Plus subscribers gain exclusive entry to GPT-4, the latest advanced language model by OpenAI.
  • Expanded Plugin Library: With access to 70 third-party plugins, ChatGPT Plus users can amplify ChatGPT’s functionality.
  • Web Exploration: Subscribers can delve into web browsing via ChatGPT, facilitating information search and website interaction without leaving the chat interface.
  • Code Interpreter Feature: The code interpreter plugin is at the disposal of ChatGPT Plus users, enabling diverse functions like data analytics, image conversions, and code editing.

ChatGPT vs. Google Bard

Both chatbots operate on the foundation of natural language processing. Users input prompts or queries, and the chatbots craft responses that mimic human dialogue. 

However, key differences emerge, primarily stemming from the sources and models employed in their training.

  • Google Bard harnesses Google’s Pathways Language Model (PaLM 2). It excels at delivering responses rooted in real-time, current events extracted from Google Search. This unique trait positions it as a valuable research companion.
  • On the flip side, ChatGPT leverages its Generative Pre-training Transformer 3 (GPT-3), or for paid subscribers, Generative Pre-training Transformer 4 (GPT-4). Its training data extends up to 2021, rendering it an exceptional text generator and writing tool.

Here’s a swift breakdown of their comparative aspects:

ChatGPTGoogle Bard
CreatorsOpenAIGoogle
Language modelGPT-3 or GPT-4Pathways Language Model (PaLM 2)
Data sourcesWide-ranging text sources, up to 2021Infiniset dataset with real-time web access
PricingFree usage; ChatGPT Plus at $20/monthFree usage for accessible users
FeaturesQuestion answering, text generation, language translation, creative contentSame features as ChatGPT, plus real-time web access

Common ChatGPT Errors and How To Fix Them

1.) ChatGPT Network Error

Encountering a network error with ChatGPT often arises from connectivity issues between the application and the server. The error message could manifest as “Network Error,” “Connection timed out,” or “Cannot connect to the server.” Potential causes encompass weak internet connectivity, an inactive VPN, server overload, or temporary server disruptions.

ChatGPT

Resolving the Network Error:

  • Check Internet Connection: Assess your internet connectivity. A stable, robust connection is crucial to avoiding network errors. Confirm your connection’s strength by examining its speed.
  • Verify OpenAI’s Server Status: If your internet connection isn’t the issue, the problem might originate from OpenAI’s server backend. Utilize tools like Down Detector to monitor ChatGPT’s server status. In cases of server issues, await resolution by OpenAI’s team.
  • Opt for Concise Queries: Lengthy requests or complex queries could trigger network errors. Divide extensive inquiries into compact fragments to evade such errors.
  • Experiment with Alternate Browsers: Your browser might contribute to network errors. To eliminate this possibility, switch to a different browser and rephrase your query. If the error persists, the source lies elsewhere.
  • Adjust VPN Settings: VPN usage can occasionally impede internet connectivity, leading to network issues. Temporarily disable your VPN or switch to a distinct server location for a potential remedy.

2.) ChatGPT Is At Capacity Right Now

ChatGPT

This error emerges when a surge of users attempts to access ChatGPT simultaneously, often during periods of high demand.

How To Fix This Error:

  • Patient Waiting: If you consistently encounter this error, granting a waiting period of approximately fifteen to thirty minutes is recommended. Alternatively, click the “Get notified when we’re back” link to receive an email notification upon service restoration, saving you from manual checks.
  • VPN Utilization: Using a virtual private network (VPN) can sometimes bypass the “at capacity” error. VPNs reroute your connection through different VPN server locations, potentially offering access to less congested servers
  • Basic Remedies:
    • Refresh the Page: Trigger a new request from your browser to the server by refreshing the page. This action can restore your ChatGPT interface functionality.
    • Try Incognito Mode: Switching to incognito mode may circumvent the error.
    • Clear Browser Cache: For Google Chrome, access the menu via the three dots in the upper right corner, choose “clear browsing data,” and clear cached site data, cookies, and user information.
    • Reboot Your Device: Restarting your device might surprisingly resolve various errors, including this one.

3.) ChatGPT Error in Body Stream

ChatGPT

The “Error in body stream” message indicates that ChatGPT struggles to generate a proper response to your request. This error may stem from factors like weak network connectivity, overwhelmed OpenAI servers, or invalid queries.

How To Fix This Error:

  • Regenerate the Response: Click the “Regenerate response” button located above the chat box to rectify the “error in body stream.” This action will prompt ChatGPT to reprocess your query and produce a corrected response.
  • Initiate a Fresh Chat: Resolving the error can involve starting a new chat session. Click “New Chat” in the sidebar to create a fresh chat and re-enter your query.
  • Adjust Input Length: Lengthy ChatGPT prompts can contribute to the body stream error. By dividing your input into smaller queries or questions, you can decrease its word count. Shortening your input enhances ChatGPT’s ability to process your request and generate a suitable response.
  • Check ChatGPT’s Server Status: If the previous steps fail, it’s prudent to verify the official server status of ChatGPT. If the server experiences downtime, await developers’ resolution before resuming tool utilization.

ChatGPT: Frequently Asked Questions

ChatGPT is an advanced language model developed by OpenAI that utilizes machine learning to understand and hold conversations with users. It’s designed to generate human-like responses and assist in various tasks using natural language processing techniques.

ChatGPT’s proficiency stems from its ability to filter out inappropriate content, maintain context in conversations, and offer coherent and logical responses. Its creative capacity enables tasks like writing blogs and engaging in dynamic conversations.

ChatGPT is owned by OpenAI, an AI-focused organization. OpenAI has provided demonstrations of ChatGPT’s capabilities on its official website.

Yes, ChatGPT is available for free online. Users can utilize the chatbot and offer their insights to contribute to its improvement. As the chatbot is still learning, user feedback plays a vital role in enhancing its performance.

Bottom Line: ChatGPT Chatbot 2023

In 2023, ChatGPT has transformed AI interaction, aiding in tasks from content creation to translation. With over 100 million users, its potential is evident. While network errors and capacity challenges can arise, troubleshooting steps exist. The app and ChatGPT Plus have extended their reach. As a pioneer in human-computer interaction, ChatGPT shapes a dynamic AI landscape.


Sam Nguyen is the CEO and founder of Avada Commerce, an e-commerce solution provider headquartered in Singapore. He is an expert on the Shopify e-commerce platform for online stores and retail point-of-sale systems. Sam loves talking about e-commerce and he aims to help over a million online businesses grow and thrive.