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Custom GPTs have changed the way I work. From getting to an early draft stage faster to structuring thoughts in a clear, logical way, training my own GPT has freed up time for me to focus on being more creative and nurturing relationships that matter. If you’re a business leader, HR professional, or L&amp;D specialist, you’ll find that creating a custom GPT isn’t just a productivity boost - it’s a smart, personal assistant to help you tackle daily challenges effectively.When I say this tool has transformed how I work, I mean it. That’s why I’ve created an easy step-by-step guide to help you get started. My setup runs on Open AI’s paid pro version ($20US a month) of ChatGPT-4, but there are plenty of other tools out there - you just need the right guide to get started.<h2>Step-by-Step Guide to Training ChatGPT-4</h2><h3>1. Open the “Explore GPTs” Section:</h3>Log in to ChatGPT and find the Explore GPTs section in the sidebar or menu.

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<h3>2. Create a New GPT:</h3>Click on Create a GPT to start your setup.

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<h3>3. Name and Describe Your GPT:</h3>Name your GPT: Use a descriptive name like &quot;Writing assistant”Describe its purpose: For example, &quot;This GPT helps draft professional reports and ELT presentations based on uploaded templates.&quot;<h3>4. Set Instructions:</h3>Define tone and style: Be clear about how your GPT should respond. For example: &quot;Use a formal, professional tone with clear, concise sentences.&quot; Tip: Give it instructions to use British English throughout or it will default to American English spelling instead.Specify structure: &quot;Ensure all reports include an introduction, main findings, and a conclusion with actionable recommendations.&quot;List best practices: For example, use bullet points for key findings, avoid overly technical language unless requested.<h3>5. Upload Reference Materials:</h3>Use the Upload File feature to provide examples of your work that you want the GPT to emulate.Tip: Take time to select documents you want to upload. The richer and more accurate these data sources are, the better results you are going to get. <ul><li>For a report GPT, upload 5 of your best previous reports as PDFs.</li><li>Add any documents about the organisation’s mission, vision, and strategic goals for context.</li><li>Highlight specific parts you want the GPT to learn from (e.g. structure, tone, or formatting).</li></ul>This helps the GPT understand your preferred style.

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<h3>6. Add Example Prompts and Responses:</h3>Provide sample scenarios to train the GPT on how to respond:Prompt Example: &quot;Write a quarterly progress report for a diversity and inclusion initiative.&quot;Example Response: Provide an ideal response or upload a similar report template for the GPT to follow.<h3>7. Create Your GPT</h3>E voila! Once you have created your GPT - test it to ensure your GPT works as intended.

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Test with real prompts: Use scenarios you commonly face. For example: &quot;Draft an annual report summary for ELT stakeholders.&quot; &quot;Write an executive summary for the initiative with key learnings relevant to people leaders.&quot;Tweak as needed: If responses aren’t on point, refine your instructions or add new reference materials.Test edge cases: Try tricky prompts to ensure the GPT handles them well. For instance: &quot;Explain the impact of missing deadlines on overall performance and impact of this initiative.&quot;<h3>8. Share the love:</h3>Once you’re happy with your GPT:<ul><li>Share it with your team:</li><li>Use the Share Link option (typically found in the settings or after ‘create’).</li><li>Send the link to your team if relevant so they can access and use your custom GPT.</li><li>Adjust permissions if necessary to control who can edit or use it.</li></ul><h2>Hot Tips for Success:</h2>Start Small: Begin with clear, simple instructions and gradually add complexity as needed.Train it on the work you are proud of: Upload your best work to ensure the GPT learns from strong references.Leverage Feedback: Ask your team for feedback or any additional documents and information that could be added to improve responses.Be Specific: The clearer your instructions and examples, the better your GPT will perform. Think about giving instructions to your child or an intern as a guide. If you don’t like what is being returned, ask ‘Try harder’! It works. It’s an assistant, not Oscar Wilde: Use your GPT as a starting point, not end result. Remember to tinker, try, test and refine your GPT as you go - and over time you’ll create a reliable assistant you can count on to help you and your team go faster, while retaining quality. Personally, I’ve found that creating my custom GPT hasn’t just saved me time - it’s also brought back joy, thrill of experimentation and less stress. There’s something incredibly satisfying about watching a tool you’ve built adapt to your needs and deliver results.If you’re ready to explore more ways in which AI can transform the way you work, academyEX offers a wide range of AI and leadership learning opportunities. From AI Bootcamps, <a href="https://academyex.com/browse/events">events</a>, and <a href="https://academyex.com/business-academy">professional development programmes</a>, we’re here to equip you with future-ready skills. <a href="mailto:ana.ivanovic-tongue@academyex.com">Contact me to find out more.</a>

Unlock your productivity in 2024 with a custom GPT! Discover how to create your own AI assistant for efficient work and enhanced creativity.

Unlock Productivity: Create Your Custom GPT in 2024

Unlock the secret to transforming your productivity and creativity with a custom GPT that adapts to your unique needs! Imagine having a personal assistant that not only streamlines your workflow but also enhances your relationships and sparks joy in your daily tasks. Ready to revolutionise your work life? Discover the step-by-step guide that will empower you to create your own AI assistant today!

17 Dec, 2024

Custom GPTs as a Writing Assistant – My How-To Guide

Ana Ivanovic-Tongue