OpenAI has introduced a new Study Mode for ChatGPT that transforms the bot into a tutor and explains each step of the solution rather than jumping directly to the final answer.

It’s no secret that more students are now using AI chatbots to get through homework and projects. While the bots are fast and convenient, they pose a major threat to the learning experience. Study Mode aims to address those concerns and support “real learning,” according to OpenAI. It uses Socratic questioning, hints, and self-reflection prompts to understand a student’s objective and skill level, and then calibrates an appropriate response.

To get started, select “Study and learn” from Tools, and put your query into the search. We tested the new tool for a school-level math problem and were treated to a tutor-like, back-and-forth discussion. It guided us through the order of operations and let us do the basic calculations. Each correct response took us to the next part of the solution, while each incorrect response came with an explanation and hints to get it right.

(Credit: PCMag)

“Instead of doing the work for them, study mode encourages students to think critically about their learning. Features like these are a positive step toward effective AI use for learning,” said Robbie Torney, a senior executive at media advocacy group Common Sense.

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Study Mode was built with college students in mind, and in addition to homework, it can help students prepare for exams and explore new concepts, OpenAI says. 

(Credit: OpenAI)

However, Study Mode doesn’t use OpenAI’s latest large language models. Instead, it runs on a set of custom system instructions developed in collaboration with teachers, scientists, and education experts. As a result, it may result in “some inconsistent behavior and mistakes across conversations,” OpenAI warns.

Right now, Study Mode is free for all logged-in users on Free, Plus, Pro, and Team plans, with availability on ChatGPT Edu expected in the next few weeks.

Disclosure: Ziff Davis, PCMag's parent company, filed a lawsuit against OpenAI in April 2025, alleging it infringed Ziff Davis copyrights in training and operating its AI systems.