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ChatGPT is a useful study aid, but it often figures out how to give answers quickly and easily, which might reduce your critical thinking. To combat this, OpenAI has introduced a new study mode that encourages you to work through problems independently.
OpenAI has announced a dedicated “Study and Learn” mode within ChatGPT. This feature is designed with input from educators, researchers, and learning specialists. Instead of providing full solutions outright, ChatGPT guides you step-by-step through solving the problem and explains related concepts along the way. When this mode is active, responses are divided into clear sections that emphasize connections between different topics. The chatbot will refuse to give full answers, pushing you to think and engage with the material yourself.
I tested the mode with a simple integration problem. It asked if I recognized the function from the question. When I asked for the solution, it responded, “Nice try — but since we’re in Study Mode, I can’t just hand it over.” The mode offers enough guidance to help you understand the process without revealing the entire answer immediately. It tailors lessons to your skill level, adjusting based on your questions and previous interactions.
Initially, the system might struggle to accurately assess your abilities, especially if you’re new to using it for study. However, it defaults to basic explanations if it lacks sufficient data, so most users will find it effective right away. You can disable the mode at any point, returning to the standard ChatGPT experience. The depth of your learning depends on your patience and ability to resist taking shortcuts.
The mode isn’t perfect; it can produce inconsistent results across sessions, especially in estimating skill level. Sometimes, it’s possible to confuse the chatbot into revealing the answer more quickly by repeatedly refusing to understand its prompts. Ultimately, it will provide a detailed breakdown and a step-by-step solution if needed.
OpenAI considers this release a first step toward enhancing AI-assisted learning. Future updates may include visual aids for complex ideas, progress tracking, goal setting, and improved personalization based on your goals and progress.
The feature is likely to improve over time, with ongoing training to integrate successful behaviors into the main models. This could lead to ChatGPT consistently encouraging you to solve problems on your own instead of just giving answers, fostering better learning habits.
The “Study and Learn” mode is available to users with an OpenAI account, whether on the Free, Plus, Pro, or Team plans. Educational accounts should start seeing it soon. While there are ways to make ChatGPT more helpful, this feature offers a practical tool for students wanting to learn at their own pace.
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