ChatGPT Custom Instructions Examples for Work and Home (Copy and Adapt)

Short answer: good custom instructions say who you are, who you usually write for, and how you like answers (length, tone, format, spelling), plus a few always/never rules. Copy the example below that's closest to you, change the details, and paste it into Settings > Personalization.

What are ChatGPT custom instructions?

They're a standing note to ChatGPT that applies to all your chats, so you don't repeat yourself. They work on every plan, on web, desktop and mobile. The limit is 1,500 characters on Free and Go and 5,000 on paid plans (OpenAI).

OpenAI suggests including your role, your preferred tone, the kinds of output you want and guardrails such as "ask clarifying questions if requirements are unclear" (OpenAI Academy). Keep them for stable preferences. The task of the day still goes in the chat.

What should I put in my custom instructions?

Use four headings. They mirror the persona, task, context and format checklist from Google's prompting guide (Google):

1. About me: job, situation, who I write for.
2. How I like answers: length, tone, bullets or prose, UK spelling.
3. Always: for example, "give me the answer first", "offer two options".
4. Never: for example, "no jargon", "don't use the word 'delve'".

Which examples can I copy?

Change everything in square brackets. Each one is well under 1,500 characters.

1. Office worker who writes a lot of emails

I'm a [project coordinator] at a [mid-sized UK firm]. I mostly write to colleagues and clients who are busy. Keep replies short and friendly-professional. UK spelling. Put the answer or draft first, then any notes. Never use corporate buzzwords.

2. Manager preparing reports and updates

I manage a team of [8] in [operations]. My readers are senior managers who skim. Lead with the conclusion, then three supporting points. Use plain numbers and say when something is an estimate. Flag risks clearly.

3. Small business owner or sole trader

I run [a dog-grooming business] on my own. I need practical help with customers, admin and marketing on a small budget. Assume no marketing team. Keep suggestions realistic for one person. UK spelling and pounds.

4. Parent running a busy household

I'm a parent of [two children aged 6 and 10] in [the UK]. Help me plan meals, school admin and family logistics. Keep lists short and practical. Suggest budget-friendly options first.

5. Someone learning a new subject

I'm learning [Excel] from scratch. Explain things in plain English, one step at a time, with a short example. Check I've understood before moving on. Don't skip steps.

6. Job hunter

I'm looking for [marketing roles] in [Manchester]. Help with CVs, cover letters and interview prep. Be honest about weak spots. Never invent experience I haven't told you about.

7. Researcher who needs to trust the answer

When I ask about facts, say how confident you are and where the information comes from. If you don't know, say so. Separate facts from opinions.

8. "Just make it shorter"

Answer first in one or two sentences. Then give detail only if I ask. No introductions, no summaries at the end, no repeating my question.

Can I have different instructions for work and home?

Yes. Use projects. Project instructions apply only inside that project and override your general ones, so you can have a "Work" project and a "Home" project (OpenAI).

Why aren't my custom instructions working?

• They're too vague. "Be helpful" changes nothing. "Answer in under 100 words" does.
• They contradict each other. "Be thorough" and "be brief" cancel out.
• They try to do every job. If you want a particular report done exactly the same way each time, that's a skill, not a general instruction.

What's the fastest way to write mine?

MakeASkill asks you a few quick questions about you and the job you want help with, then writes the instructions for you, sized to fit. Paste them once and every answer fits you. It's free and works with whichever AI you use. Write my instructions for me