OpenAI has introduced a new study mode for ChatGPT designed to help users learn step by step rather than just providing direct answers. Available starting today for ChatGPT Free, Plus, Pro, and Team users—and coming to ChatGPT Edu in the next few weeks—the feature delivers interactive prompts that include Socratic questioning, hints, and self-reflection exercises to deepen understanding of study topics.
Study mode organizes responses into clear, easy-to-follow sections that connect key concepts, while also adapting lessons based on a user’s skill level and memory from previous chats. It can even generate quizzes to reinforce learning. The goal is to make ChatGPT a more effective study partner, moving beyond quick answers to encourage critical thinking and knowledge retention.
The new feature highlights the growing competition among AI companies for the student market, with Anthropic recently introducing a similar “Learning mode” for its Claude chatbot. However, ChatGPT users have the freedom to turn study mode on or off, meaning its success depends on users’ willingness to engage with the interactive learning process rather than opting for instant solutions.
OpenAI says the mode is powered by custom system instructions developed with input from educators, scientists, and learning specialists. This approach enables quick updates based on student feedback, though it may cause occasional inconsistencies in responses. Future updates will add more visual learning aids, goal tracking across conversations, and deeper personalization.
Google is also expanding AI tools for education, announcing new features like AI Mode in Search for building study guides and NotebookLM’s Video Overviews, which create narrated slideshows from saved content. With these updates, AI learning assistants are becoming increasingly interactive and tailored to students’ needs.
