ChatGPT is introducing a “study mode” to promote responsible academic use of the chatbot, as universities face growing concerns about AI misuse.
The feature, available through the chatbot’s tools menu, guides users through complex topics step by step, similar to a structured lesson. For example, when asked to explain Bayes’ theorem—a mathematical concept—ChatGPT first asks about the user’s math level and learning goals before providing explanations.
This launch comes as academic institutions struggle with AI-related cheating. A UK survey found nearly 7,000 confirmed cases of AI-assisted cheating in 2023-24—5.1 incidents per 1,000 students—up from 1.6 per 1,000 the previous year.
OpenAI reports that over a third of U.S. college-age users rely on ChatGPT, with about a quarter of their messages related to learning, tutoring, or schoolwork. The study mode aims to avoid simply providing ready-made answers, instead helping students understand concepts. However, students can still bypass this feature if they choose.
Jayna Devani, OpenAI’s international education lead, said the tool encourages constructive use of ChatGPT while acknowledging that preventing misuse requires broader discussions about assessment methods and clear AI usage guidelines.
The “study and learn” mode, as it appears in ChatGPT’s tools, is designed for homework help, exam prep, and exploring new topics. It prompts users to engage with problems rather than delivering instant answers. The feature can also analyze uploaded images, such as past exam papers, to assist students.
OpenAI collaborated with educators and experts to develop the tool but notes that responses may sometimes be inconsistent or contain errors.
