In December 2022 I wrote the first version of this article together with OpenAI, asking ChatGPT directly what it was. The result was scary. A lot of time (and a lot of artificial intelligence) has passed since then, so I have updated the article to explain what ChatGPT is today, what it is for and how you can use it on your website and in your business.
What is ChatGPT?
ChatGPT is a conversational artificial intelligence assistant created by OpenAI and launched at the end of 2022. It runs on language models from the GPT family (Generative Pre-trained Transformer): deep learning models trained on huge amounts of text to understand and generate natural language. You write to it (or speak to it) and it answers like in a conversation, remembering what has been said during the chat.
What in 2022 was mostly a text chat is now much more: it can work with images, files, voice and code, search for information on the internet or carry out more complex tasks, depending on the model and plan you use.
How do you use ChatGPT?
You go to the website or app, type what you need (what is called a prompt) and get a reply. The clearer and more specific you are, the better the result. Some common uses:
- Text generation: drafts of articles, emails, product descriptions, scripts or social media posts.
- Summarizing and analyzing: summarizing long documents, extracting the main ideas or analyzing data.
- Translation and adaptation: translating texts and adapting the tone for different audiences.
- Ideas and strategy: suggestions for titles, content structures, brand names or campaigns.
- Code and technical tasks: explaining errors, writing code snippets or spreadsheet formulas.
- Learning: explaining a topic step by step, like a patient teacher.
Is it free?
There is a free version with features and usage limits, and paid plans with more powerful models and more usage. Conditions and prices change often, so the best thing is to check the official OpenAI website. In 2022, when I asked ChatGPT whether the service was free, it answered that it was not sure. That is part of the charm of that experiment.
ChatGPT and other alternatives
ChatGPT is no longer alone. There are other very powerful AI assistants, such as Gemini (Google), Claude (Anthropic), Copilot (Microsoft) or Perplexity, with different approaches and strengths. The best thing is to try a couple of them on real tasks from your business and keep the one that works best for you.
How to make the most of ChatGPT with your WordPress website
- Content ideas and article structures for your blog.
- Drafts that you then review, correct and personalize with your style and experience.
- Image alt text and meta descriptions for SEO.
- Technical shortcuts: explanations of errors and help with code snippets.
- Customer service: drafting answers to frequently asked questions.
Limitations and things to keep in mind
- It can be wrong: it sometimes makes up data or presents it with great confidence (so-called “hallucinations”). Always verify figures, dates and sources.
- Do not copy it as is: a text made 100% with AI and without review tends to be generic. Google rewards useful, original content with real experience, however it was written.
- Privacy: do not paste personal data, passwords or confidential client information, and review the tool data usage terms.
- Transparency and regulation: in Europe there are new rules on AI and data protection. If you automate processes with customer data, consult a specialist.
What the original article said
Out of curiosity, this is how the 2022 experiment turned out: I asked ChatGPT to write an article about what ChatGPT is, to suggest titles and conclusions, and the result was this (the screenshots preserve that conversation).
That a 2022 AI wrote you a coherent text, with titles and conclusions, seemed almost like magic to us. Today we take it for granted, and that is why what matters is no longer whether an AI can write, but how we use it with judgment.
Frequently asked questions
What does GPT stand for?
It stands for Generative Pre-trained Transformer: a generative, pre-trained model based on the “transformer” architecture.
Can ChatGPT replace a copywriter or a designer?
It can help you work much faster, but it does not replace the experience, judgment or personality of a professional.
Does Google penalize AI-made content?
Google values the quality and usefulness of content, not so much how it was produced. Content made only to rank and without real value can hurt you.
If you want me to help you use AI in your web project or to improve your WordPress website, contact me.
