OpenAI has launched "study mode" in ChatGPT, a new learning feature that provides step-by-step guidance instead of direct answers. The feature is now available to Free, Plus, Pro, and Team users, with ChatGPT Edu access coming in the next few weeks.
Purpose and Philosophy
Study mode addresses growing concerns about AI's role in education by ensuring ChatGPT supports genuine learning rather than just providing quick solutions. The feature is designed to help students build deeper understanding through interactive engagement, encouraging them to think critically about their learning process rather than simply completing assignments.
Development Approach
The feature was built using custom system instructions developed in collaboration with teachers, scientists, and pedagogy experts. These instructions are grounded in established learning science research and emphasize encouraging active participation, managing cognitive load, developing metacognition and self-reflection, fostering curiosity, and providing actionable supportive feedback.
Core Features
Study mode employs interactive prompts that use Socratic questioning, hints, and self-reflection techniques instead of providing direct answers. The system organizes information into scaffolded responses with easy-to-follow sections that highlight key connections between topics, helping reduce overwhelm for complex subjects. Lessons are personalized based on assessment questions that gauge the user's skill level, while knowledge checks through quizzes and open-ended questions provide feedback to track progress. Users can easily toggle study mode on and off during conversations for maximum flexibility.
Student Reception
The feature was primarily designed with college students in mind, and early testing revealed positive feedback. Students described the experience as having access to a "live, 24/7, all-knowing office hours" that excels at breaking down dense material into clear, well-paced explanations. One student noted successfully learning a complex concept after a three-hour session that had previously been difficult to grasp.
Future Development
Currently, study mode operates through custom system instructions, allowing OpenAI to quickly iterate based on real student feedback. The company plans to eventually train this behavior directly into their main models once they determine the most effective approaches. Future enhancements being explored include clearer visualizations for complex concepts, goal setting and progress tracking across conversations, and deeper personalization tailored to individual student needs.
Research and Collaboration
OpenAI is conducting ongoing research through its NextGenAI initiative and partnerships with Stanford University's SCALE Initiative to study how AI tools influence learning outcomes, particularly in K-12 education. The company intends to publish deeper analysis of the relationship between model design and cognition while working with the broader education ecosystem to ensure AI benefits learners worldwide.
To access study mode, users can select "Study and learn" from the tools menu in ChatGPT and begin asking questions for guided learning assistance.
