10 Things You Shouldn’t Do with ChatGPT

Artificial intelligence has taken the world by storm, and ChatGPT, developed by OpenAI, is one of the most popular tools out there. It’s versatile, conversational, and can assist with everything from drafting emails to brainstorming ideas. However, like any powerful tool, there are limits and pitfalls to avoid. Here are 10 things you shouldn’t do with ChatGPT to ensure you’re using it wisely and responsibly.

1. Don’t Treat It as a Substitute for Professional Advice

ChatGPT can provide general information on topics like health, law, or finance, but it’s not a doctor, lawyer, or financial advisor. Relying on it for critical decisions—like diagnosing an illness or drafting a legally binding contract—could lead to serious mistakes. Always consult a qualified professional for expert guidance.

2. Don’t Share Sensitive Personal Information

While ChatGPT is designed to assist, it’s not a vault for your secrets. Avoid sharing private details like your Social Security number, passwords, or intimate personal stories. Even though OpenAI has safeguards in place, it’s best to keep sensitive data offline and out of AI conversations.

3. Don’t Use It to Generate Harmful Content

ChatGPT has guardrails to prevent misuse, but pushing it to create harmful, offensive, or illegal content is a bad idea. Not only does it violate ethical boundaries, but it could also get you into trouble depending on how you use the output. Keep it constructive and positive.

4. Don’t Blindly Trust Everything It Says

ChatGPT is impressive, but it’s not infallible. It can occasionally produce outdated, biased, or outright incorrect information. Double-check facts, especially for important tasks like academic research or professional projects, rather than taking its responses at face value.

5. Don’t Rely on It for Real-Time Updates

If you need the latest news, stock prices, or weather forecasts, ChatGPT isn’t your best bet. Its knowledge is vast but static compared to real-time sources like search engines or news apps. For anything time-sensitive, look elsewhere.

6. Don’t Use It to Cheat on Schoolwork

Students might be tempted to have ChatGPT write essays or solve homework problems. While it can help explain concepts or provide inspiration, submitting its work as your own is plagiarism and undermines learning. Use it as a study aid, not a shortcut.

7. Don’t Expect Deep Emotional Support

ChatGPT can simulate empathy and hold a conversation, but it’s not a therapist. If you’re struggling with serious emotional issues, it can’t replace human connection or professional mental health support. Lean on friends, family, or experts instead.

8. Don’t Overuse It for Creative Work

Writers, artists, and creators might turn to ChatGPT for ideas or drafts, but relying on it too heavily can stifle your own creativity. It’s a tool to spark inspiration, not to replace your unique voice or vision. Use it sparingly to keep your work authentic.

9. Don’t Ask It to Make Life-or-Death Decisions

If you’re wondering about extreme moral or ethical questions—like who deserves severe punishment—ChatGPT won’t (and shouldn’t) give you a definitive answer. It’s an AI, not a judge or arbiter of fate. Leave those choices to human judgment.

10. Don’t Forget to Fact-Check Its Sources

ChatGPT doesn’t always cite where its information comes from, and when it does, the sources might be vague or invented. If you’re using its output for something important, verify the details with credible references to avoid spreading misinformation.

Final Thoughts

ChatGPT is an incredible tool that can enhance productivity, spark creativity, and answer a wide range of questions. However, knowing its limitations is key to using it effectively. By avoiding these 10 missteps, you’ll get the most out of this AI without falling into common traps. Treat it as a helpful assistant—not a magic solution—and you’ll be on the right track.

What do you think—any other ChatGPT “don’ts” you’d add to the list?