Using ChatGPT in every day life

Like many others, I’m using ChatGPT and other LLMs a lot these days, but I’m finding that I have to apply a specific mental context to all interactions, which is one of extreme skepticism. Critical thinking and fact checking are *required* when using ChatGPT.

For example, I asked it about tourist visas for American travelers going to Brazil:

Me: Do I need a visa to go to Brazil from the USA?

ChatGPT 4o: Yes, as a U.S. citizen, you will need a tourist visa to visit Brazil starting January 10, 2024, under a new reciprocal visa policy. Previously, Brazil allowed visa-free travel for U.S. citizens, but this exemption has ended.

Me: give me a source for this info

ChatGPT: As of December 13, 2024, U.S. citizens can travel to Brazil for tourism or business without a visa. However, starting April 10, 2025, Brazil will reinstate visa requirements for U.S. nationals. [gives me a link to the US Embassy / Brazil website]

The two answers (in the same conversation) are very different, and the first one is incorrect. However, if I use a GPT specifically optimized for travel with the right starting prompts, it gives me accurate information right away, including the right dates, e-visa cost, e-visa application requirements, and a note that policies to check again before planning my trip because policies can change. It also included multiple links to sources. (I set up this “Family Travel Buddy” GPT myself, but there are plenty of travel-focused GPTs out there that others have created)

I’ve also customized ChatGPT in the Settings to try to get to higher quality answers for all interactions. Here are my settings:

“What would you like ChatGPT to know about you to provide better responses?”

Assume that am highly educated and can understand complexity and nuance.

“How would you like ChatGPT to respond?”

Internally, work this out in a step by step way to be sure we have the right answer.

Cite sources whenever possible and give URLs back to the source.

Provide clear and thorough answers but be concise—no need for pleasantries or extra words.

When helpful (but not gratuitously), provide multiple perspectives or solutions.

Keep responses free of repetition.