How to try ChatGPT safely, step by step

This guide shows you how to try ChatGPT for the first time. It takes about ten minutes. It is free and you do not need a credit card.

Before you start

You need a computer, tablet or smartphone with internet.
Have one small, harmless question ready. For example: “What can I cook with eggs, spinach and cheese?”
Never type passwords, bank details, your Medicare number or your full address into an AI tool.

Step 1: Go to the real website

Type chatgpt.com into the address bar at the top of your web browser. Check the spelling carefully. Fake websites sometimes use names that look almost the same.

Avoid clicking ads or links in emails that promise “free ChatGPT”. Going straight to the address yourself is safer.

If you prefer an app, the official ChatGPT app is made by OpenAI. Check that name under the app in the App Store or Google Play before you install it.

Step 2: Decide whether to make an account

In many countries, OpenAI lets you try ChatGPT without an account. You just type in the box. Your chat is not saved when you close it.

If you want ChatGPT to remember your past chats, you can create a free account with an email address. The free plan has no time limit, according to OpenAI. You do not need to choose a paid plan. If you see an offer to upgrade, you can simply close it.

Step 3: Ask your first question

Click in the box that says something like “Ask anything”. Type your question in plain words, the way you would ask a friend. Then press Enter, or tap the arrow button.

Try typing this

I have eggs, spinach and some cheese. Suggest two simple dinners I can make in under 30 minutes. Keep the steps short.

Step 4: Ask a follow-up

You can reply to the answer, just like a conversation. Try “Make it even simpler”, “I don’t have an oven” or “Explain step 2 again”. This is where AI assistants are most useful.

Step 5: Check the answer

ChatGPT can sound sure of itself and still be wrong. Use it for ideas and drafts. Check facts that matter, such as dates, prices, health advice or rules, on an official website or with a real person.

Step 6: Keep your privacy settings in mind

OpenAI says it may use what you type to improve its AI, and that you can turn this off in Settings, under Data controls. Whatever you choose, treat the chat box like a postcard: don’t write anything you would not want a stranger to read.

Five safety rules to keep

Only use the real website or official app.
Never type passwords, bank or card details, or ID numbers.
Never pay to “unlock” free AI. The free version needs no card.
Check important answers with an official source.
If anyone phones or messages offering to “set up AI” for you for a fee, it is likely a scam. Hang up.

For a slightly longer checklist, read Five habits for using AI thoughtfully. To learn how to ask clearer questions, try Your first useful AI conversation.

Prefer Google or Microsoft?

If you already use Gmail, Google’s assistant Gemini works with the same Google account. If you use Windows or Outlook, Microsoft Copilot may feel familiar. The steps above work the same way for both. For details of what’s included free, see Is ChatGPT free?

Common questions

Does ChatGPT cost money?

There is a free plan. OpenAI also sells paid plans with higher limits, but you do not need one to try it or for everyday questions.

Do I need to give my phone number or credit card?

You do not need a credit card to use the free version. In many countries you can even try it without an account. If a site insists on card details to “try ChatGPT free”, it is probably not the real site.

Can ChatGPT see my computer or my files?

No. It only sees what you type or deliberately upload into the chat box.

What if I get stuck?

Ask ChatGPT itself. Type “I’m new to this. What should I do next?” It will explain in plain words.

Where this advice comes from

Checked 15 October 2026. Websites and free plans change, so check the official page if something looks different.

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