Accessing and Using OpenAI's GPT Store for Custom Chatbots

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Apr 29, 2025 By Alison Perry

Let’s face it—we all love tools that make life easier. And OpenAI just dropped something that fits right into that category. It's called the Custom GPT Store, and it lets you browse, pick, and use AI models built for specific tasks—whether it's summarizing research, planning your week, or helping with your resume. Think of it as a growing library of helpful bots that don’t just chat—they actually do things.

You don’t need to build anything yourself or tweak complicated settings. Just search, tap, and start using a GPT that’s already set up to handle what you need.

So, What’s the Custom GPT Store Exactly?

Imagine a place where every GPT (that’s short for Generative Pre-trained Transformer) is made with a purpose. One might be designed to help you meal prep for the week based on your dietary needs. Another might help you improve your writing style. A third could help translate legal jargon into plain English. The Custom GPT Store is OpenAI’s way of letting users create and share these focused bots with others.

Now, this isn’t just for developers or tech wizards. You don’t need to code or know how to build anything. These GPTs are ready-made. All you have to do is browse and pick what suits your needs. Think of it like an app store, but for AI tools you can chat with.

How to Access and Use the Custom GPT Store

Accessing a Custom GPT

You won’t need to download anything or sign up all over again. If you already use ChatGPT, getting to the store is simple.

Log into ChatGPT – Either from your browser or the mobile app.

Click on Explore GPTs – You’ll see a tab or button on the main screen. This takes you straight to the store.

Browse Categories or Use Search – You can scroll through featured GPTs or search for something specific, like “homework helper” or “travel planner.”

Try One Instantly – You can click and start chatting right away. No waiting, no fuss.

It’s built to feel effortless. And yes, it works whether you’re on your laptop, tablet, or phone.

Using a Custom GPT

Using one of these GPTs is just like chatting with the regular ChatGPT—but a little more focused. Let’s say you choose a “Budget Planning Assistant.” Instead of giving you generic money tips, it’ll walk you through setting up a realistic budget, tracking expenses, and making decisions based on your input. It won’t just throw suggestions your way—it will remember what you told it earlier in the chat and build from there.

Some GPTs also come with special tools. For example, a design helper GPT might let you upload an image and get feedback. A math tutor GPT might use a virtual whiteboard to show steps clearly. Each GPT shows you what it's capable of before you start the chat so you know what to expect.

You can favorite the ones you like and come back to them whenever you need. And if you find one that doesn’t hit the mark, you can move on. There’s no commitment. It’s a pick-and-use model that puts you in charge.

Want to Make Your GPT? Here's How

Let's say you have a very specific need. Maybe you're a teacher who wants a GPT that quizzes students based on your lesson plans. Or maybe you're building a small business and want a GPT that can respond to customer questions using your own company data. You can actually build it—no programming is needed.

Here’s what the process looks like:

  • Click "Create a GPT" inside the store
  • Follow a Step-by-Step Setup – OpenAI guides you with prompts. You describe what your GPT should do, how it should talk, and what kind of information it should focus on.
  • Upload Files or Link Resources – You can give it specific materials to “study” so it gives answers based on those.
  • Test and Save – Once it feels right, you hit save and decide if you want it to be public or just for personal use.

It's all very guided and surprisingly fast. The result is a chatbot tailored to you—by you. And even if you're not sure how to write a good prompt or set up the right behavior, the setup page offers suggestions as you go.

So, What Can You Actually Use These GPTs For?

Just about anything that involves words, ideas, or planning. Here are a few real examples from the store:

Meal planner for dietary restrictions – Tells you what to cook and how to shop and tracks your pantry.

Job application helper – Edits your resume, drafts cover letters and answers typical interview questions.

Daily productivity coach – Helps you block out your schedule, reminds you of tasks, and checks in on your goals.

Parenting guide GPT – Gives age-specific activity suggestions and parenting tips based on child development stages.

Language buddy – Helps you practice conversation in Spanish, French, or even Japanese with feedback.

Each GPT is built with a purpose, and once you get a sense of how they work, it’s easy to build them into your routine.

Wrapping Up

The Custom GPT Store is here, and it’s not just for tech-savvy people. Whether you want to simplify your day, get help with a project, or try something creative, there’s a GPT that’s probably already been made for that. You just have to check it out.

What’s interesting is how personalized these GPTs can be. They’re not all one-size-fits-all bots. Some sound casual, some formal, some are super concise, and others take their time explaining things. That variety means you’re likely to find one that clicks with how you think—and helps you get things done faster.

And if you can’t find the exact right one? You can make your own. No code. Just your ideas. Pretty helpful, right?

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