Create Your Own Custom GPT in ChatGPT (No Coding)

Access the Custom GPT Creator

First, open ChatGPT on your computer or mobile device. Once you're on the main chat screen, look for the "Explore GPTs" option. On a computer, this is usually found in the left-hand sidebar. If you're on the mobile app, you might need to tap a menu icon (often three lines or your profile picture) to reveal the sidebar. Click or tap "Explore GPTs" to see all available custom GPTs.

If it looks different: If you can't find "Explore GPTs," look for a button or menu item labelled "GPTs" or a "+" icon that says "Create a GPT."

You'll know it worked when: A new screen appears, usually showing a collection of GPTs and a prominent button or section labelled "Create a GPT."

Start the Conversation with GPT Builder

Now that you're on the "Explore GPTs" page, click or tap the "Create a GPT" button. This will open a new interface, often split into two main sections: a "Create" section where you'll chat with the GPT builder, and a "Preview" panel on the right where you can test your new creation. In the "Create" section, you'll see a chat box at the bottom. This is where you tell the GPT builder (which is essentially ChatGPT itself, programmed to help you build other GPTs) what you want your custom tool to do.

If it looks different: The main sections are typically labelled "Create" and "Configure." If you only see a chat interface, you're likely in the "Create" section, and the "Preview" panel might be minimised or toggled off (look for a button like "Test" or "Preview" near the top right).

💬 Example: I want to create a GPT that helps me draft polite, professional emails to my neighbours about shared property issues, like loud music or overgrown hedges.

You'll know it worked when: The GPT builder will respond almost immediately, usually by suggesting a name for your custom GPT based on your description.

Refine Your GPT's Purpose and Name

After the GPT builder suggests a name, you have the chance to confirm it or propose a different one. This is also where you can start clarifying the purpose of your custom GPT. A Custom GPT is like a specialised version of the main ChatGPT AI model (the underlying brain of the AI), given specific instructions so it focuses on one type of task. For instance, if the builder suggested "Neighbourhood Helper," you can accept it or say "I'd prefer 'Neighbourly Nudge' instead."

If it looks different: The builder might ask "What should I call it?" directly, or even generate a profile picture before you've confirmed the name.

💬 Example: Yes, 'Neighbourly Nudge' sounds perfect! Make sure it keeps a friendly, helpful tone.

You'll know it worked when: The name of your custom GPT updates at the top of the screen (above the chat conversation), and often a new profile picture (a round icon) is generated and shown next to the name.

Set the Tone and Personality

Now it's time to fine-tune your custom GPT's behaviour. The GPT builder will ask you follow-up questions to understand the specific style and tone you want. For our 'Neighbourly Nudge' example, it's crucial that the language is calm and constructive. This is where you reinforce those instructions. The builder will be updating the "Instructions" field in the "Configure" section (which you don't need to look at yet) based on your chat. Think of it like giving a new employee detailed instructions on how to handle sensitive situations.

If it looks different: The builder might jump straight to asking about specific rules or types of information to include or avoid. Just keep chatting naturally.

💬 Example: It should be empathetic and encouraging, avoiding any passive-aggressive language. It needs to offer solutions, not just complain, and always assume the best intentions from the neighbour.

You'll know it worked when: The GPT builder confirms it has integrated your preferences into the custom GPT's core instructions, often by restating what it has understood.

Test and Tweak Your Custom GPT

Once you've given the builder a good set of instructions, it's time to see your custom GPT in action! Look at the right-hand side of your screen; you'll see the "Preview" panel. This is where you can interact with your newly created GPT without affecting the builder conversation on the left. Type a request into the chat box in the "Preview" panel, just as you would with regular ChatGPT. Pay attention to how it responds. Does it follow your tone and instructions? If not, go back to the chat on the left ("Create" section) and tell the builder what needs adjusting.

If it looks different: If you don't see the "Preview" panel, look for a "Test" or "Toggle Preview" button, usually near the top right of the screen, to open it.

💬 Example: Draft an email to my neighbour about their dog barking late at night. Make it polite.

You'll know it worked when: Your custom GPT provides a response in the preview window, and you can assess if it meets your expectations for tone and content.

Save and Share Your Custom GPT

After testing and making any necessary tweaks, your custom GPT is ready to be saved! Look for a "Save" or "Update" button, usually located in the top-right corner of the screen. Clicking this will bring up a small pop-up window asking about your publishing options. You can usually choose from: "Only me" (private), "Anyone with a link" (shareable), or "Public" (listed in the GPT store). Choose the option that suits you best and confirm.

If it looks different: The button might be labelled "Publish" or simply have a tick mark icon. The sharing options might also appear as radio buttons on the same screen instead of a separate pop-up.

You'll know it worked when: You see a confirmation message that your GPT has been saved, and it will now appear in your personal list of custom GPTs, usually found under "My GPTs" in the sidebar.