sodcalculator

10 Tech How-To

GPT Mentions in ChatGPT: How to Use Them

Guide 10-41730 · Updated · Step by step

GPT mentions let you call a custom GPT into a ChatGPT conversation without leaving the chat, so you can ask a specialist GPT to help with a particular task. You’ll need access to ChatGPT and, depending on the GPT, permission to use it; available features and names can vary by account and interface.

What You’ll Need

  • A ChatGPT account and an internet connection.
  • Access to the GPT you want to mention. Some GPTs may not be available to every account or in every workspace.
  • A conversation where you can use GPT mentions. If the feature is not available in your current interface, open the GPT directly instead.

Step-by-Step

  1. Open a ChatGPT conversation. Start a new chat or open an existing one where you want the GPT’s help. Consider starting a fresh chat if you want to keep the task focused or avoid carrying over unrelated context.
  2. Find the mention control. In the message composer, type @. In interfaces that support GPT mentions, ChatGPT should show a menu of GPTs you can select. If typing the symbol does not open a menu, check that you are in the standard ChatGPT conversation composer and that the feature is available to your account.
  3. Choose the GPT you need. Select its name from the menu rather than typing a guessed name. If there is a search field or the list is long, search for the GPT by name. Only GPTs available to you will appear.
  4. Write a specific request after the mention. Explain the task, the relevant context, and the format you want. For example: @Writing Coach, make this paragraph clearer while keeping its friendly tone: [paste paragraph]. Avoid including sensitive information you do not need to share.
  5. Send the message and check the response. The selected GPT is invited to respond in the conversation. Review its answer for accuracy and fit; a mention does not guarantee that it will have all the context or capabilities you expect.
  6. Continue with another GPT if useful. In a later message, type @ again and select a different available GPT. State what you want the next GPT to do and, when needed, provide the relevant output or context from the previous reply. Do not assume one GPT has seen every detail from another.
  7. Use a GPT directly if mentions are unavailable. Open the GPT from the GPTs area or another entry point shown in your ChatGPT interface, then start a conversation there. The labels and placement of these controls may change over time.

Common Mistakes

  • Typing a GPT’s name without selecting it. The mention works by choosing an entry from the menu that appears after @. Plain text that resembles a name may not route your message to that GPT.
  • Expecting every GPT to appear. The menu generally lists GPTs you can currently access, not every GPT that exists. Access can depend on availability, account settings, or workspace controls.
  • Sending an unclear request. A GPT may give a broad answer if you do not specify the goal, audience, constraints, or desired format. Add the details that matter to the task.
  • Assuming a mention changes the whole conversation. A mention directs a particular message to a GPT; it is not necessarily a permanent switch for all later messages. Check the selected GPT in the composer for each request.
  • Sharing unnecessary private information. Include only the context needed to complete the task, especially when using a GPT whose configuration or data handling you have not checked.

Tips

  • Give the GPT a clear job. Say whether you want it to draft, summarize, compare, explain, or review something. A concrete task is easier to act on than “help me with this.”
  • Include useful constraints. Mention length, tone, audience, required facts, or what to avoid. For example, ask for a concise explanation for beginners or a checklist with no jargon.
  • Share only relevant context. Paste the text or details the GPT needs, and identify what it should focus on. For a long document or multi-part task, break the work into manageable requests.
  • Check the GPT’s description. Before using it, look at its name and description to see whether its purpose matches your task. A specialized GPT may be less suitable for unrelated requests.
  • Verify important information. Treat the response as a useful starting point, not automatic confirmation. Check factual claims against dependable sources when accuracy matters.
  • Keep the conversation organized. Use separate chats for unrelated projects, or clearly label a change of task. This can make it easier to provide the right context and find the answer later.

Troubleshooting

Typing @ shows no menu: Make sure you are using the message composer in a ChatGPT conversation, then try again. Refresh the page or restart the app if the interface seems stuck. If no menu appears after that, the feature may not be available in your current account, workspace, or interface; open the GPT directly if you can.

The GPT you want is missing: Search the available list carefully and confirm that the GPT is accessible to your account. If it belongs to a managed workspace, an administrator may control which GPTs are available. You can also open the GPTs area and check whether it is listed there.

The wrong GPT responds: Start a new message, type @, and select the intended GPT from the menu before entering your request. If needed, begin a separate chat and open the GPT directly.

The response ignores your instructions: Restate the task in a short, direct message and specify the output you want. Provide missing context, or ask the GPT to revise one part of its answer rather than repeating the entire request.

The GPT cannot do what you asked: Check its description and available capabilities. Some GPTs may not have access to a tool, file, or information source required for a task. Try a simpler request, provide the relevant material yourself, or use a different GPT.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does mentioning a GPT do?
It directs a message in a ChatGPT conversation to a selected GPT, allowing you to bring that GPT into the chat for a task.

How do I mention a GPT?
Type @ in the message composer, select the GPT from the menu, write your request, and send it.

Can I mention more than one GPT in a conversation?
You can select different GPTs in separate messages when they are available. Give each one a clear task and provide any context it needs.

Can I mention a GPT that does not appear in the menu?
Usually, you can only select GPTs available to you. Check the GPTs area or ask your workspace administrator about access if relevant.

Do GPT mentions work in every ChatGPT account?
Availability can vary by account, workspace, and interface. If you do not see the mention menu, try opening the GPT directly or check the options available in your account.

Is mentioning a GPT the same as opening it directly?
No. A mention brings the GPT into a message in your current conversation. Opening it directly starts or continues a chat from that GPT’s own entry point.

Related

General steps for current mainstream versions; menus can differ by device and version. See the disclaimer or report an error.

More in this bed

The whole Tech How-To bed →