How to Add Custom Instructions to ChatGPT
Last updated June 1, 2025
ChatGPT's Custom Instructions feature lets you set persistent context that applies to every new conversation. Instead of repeating your preferences each time, your BootFile sits in the background and shapes how ChatGPT responds automatically.
Open ChatGPT Settings
Go to chatgpt.com and click your profile icon in the bottom-left corner. Select "Settings" from the menu.
Navigate to Custom Instructions
Click "Personalization" in the left sidebar, then click "Custom Instructions." You'll see two text fields.
Paste Field 1: About You
Copy the first section of your BootFile (your reasoning profile and thinking style) and paste it into "What would you like ChatGPT to know about you?"
Paste Field 2: Response Preferences
Copy the second section (communication rules, format preferences, and boundaries) and paste it into "How would you like ChatGPT to respond?"
Save and Test
Click "Save." Open a new conversation and ask a question you'd normally ask. Notice how the response style matches your thinking preferences right from the first message.
Tips
- Custom Instructions apply to all new conversations automatically. You don't need to paste them each time.
- If a response feels off, you can always override in-conversation by saying "be more direct" or "give me more detail."
- BootFile formats your instructions specifically for ChatGPT's two-field layout so nothing important gets cut.
- Free and Plus accounts both support Custom Instructions. No upgrade required.