ChatGPT Key Terms You Actually Need to Know

Michele Biaso
Apr 6
5 min read

Updated: Apr 22

(No Tech Jargon, Just Real Talk)

Let’s be honest—some of the AI lingo out there sounds like it was made to confuse you on purpose. So if you’ve opened ChatGPT and felt like everyone’s speaking a different language? You’re not alone.

Here’s a no-BS breakdown of the key terms you actually need to know to use ChatGPT like a pro—without needing a tech dictionary.

A desk and it says "ChatGPT Key terms you should know."

ChatGPT Model (AKA: What Version You’re Using)

Think of the model like your phone’s software version. ChatGPT runs on different versions (called models), and they’re always evolving. Each new one is designed to be smarter, faster, and more capable than the last.

On the free plan? You’re using the standard model—it works for casual tasks and quick help.
On the paid plan? You get access to the more advanced model, which is better at reasoning, writing, and handling more complex prompts.

Usage (AKA: How Much You Can Use It)

Usage is just how much you can use ChatGPT before hitting a limit. If you’re on the free plan, you have more restrictions. If you’re on the paid plan, you get more access to better models, which means higher quality responses.

More advanced models give stronger responses. Basic models are fine for everyday stuff, but they have their limits.

💡 Use the advanced model when you're working on strategy, content creation, research, or anything where quality matters. Stick to the basic model when working on things like recipes, or organizing your calendar.

Prompting (AKA: How You Ask ChatGPT for Stuff)

Prompting is how you ask ChatGPT for something—and most people do this wrong. If you’re copy-pasting prompts from the internet and wondering why you’re getting stiff, generic responses, that’s why.

A good prompt tells ChatGPT what role to take on, gives context, and asks for a specific output.

For example, instead of saying:"Give me a meal plan."

Try: “Act as a nutritionist who works with busy women who don’t like to cook. Create a 3-day meal plan with super easy recipes that require minimal prep and no weird ingredients.”

The better your prompt, the better your result. AI is powerful, but only if you know how to talk to it.

Hallucinations (AKA: When ChatGPT Makes Stuff Up)

Yes, ChatGPT lies sometimes. Not on purpose—but when it doesn’t know something, it might guess and sound really confident doing it. This is called a hallucination.

So if it gives you stats, quotes, or facts? Always double-check. Don’t let the confident tone fool you—it’s not Google.

Voice Mode (AKA: Talk Instead of Type)

Sometimes it’s just easier to say what’s on your mind. Voice Mode lets you chat with ChatGPT like you’re on FaceTime.

Use it to:

Brainstorm out loud
Practice for an interview
Talk through content ideas while folding laundry
Think things through when your hands are busy

It's a whole vibe.

Vision (AKA: When ChatGPT Can See What You Show It)

This is where things get wild. ChatGPT can see!

With Vision Mode, you can upload images or show things it things in real time using Live Vision.

Upload a confusing chart = get an explanation
Show ChatGPT a design = get feedback
Snap a pic of a menu = get translation or meal ideas

This makes ChatGPT way more useful beyond just answering questions.

Roleplaying (AKA: Giving ChatGPT a Persona)

Roleplaying isn’t weird—it’s actually how you get way better responses. Just tell ChatGPT who to act as, and it’ll tailor its answer to that role.

Try:

“Act as a copywriter for beauty brands”

“Act as a therapist helping someone with anxiety”

“Act as a dating coach for women over 35”

You’ll be shocked at how much better the responses get.

Need marketing advice? Have it act as a top marketing strategist. Need help negotiating? Make it act as a top-tier sales expert. Want something fun? Ask it to act like your favorite public figure.

This is a game-changer for brainstorming, coaching, and learning new skills.

Final Thoughts: You’re Not Using ChatGPT Wrong—You Just Haven’t Been Taught Right

You’re not using ChatGPT wrong—you just haven’t been shown how to use it right. Most people toss in a basic prompt and get a basic response.

But when you actually know how to talk to it? Everything changes.

That’s why I created The Girl’s Guide to ChatGPT—to teach you how to use AI the way no one else is explaining it. No tech talk, no overwhelm, just real tools that make your life easier.

Want in? Join now!

Frequently Asked Questions: ChatGPT for Beginners

1. What is ChatGPT and how does it work?

ChatGPT is an AI chatbot that lets you have natural conversations with a powerful language model. You type a question or request, and it gives you a thoughtful response—like texting a super-smart assistant that works 24/7. It can help with everything from writing and brainstorming to organizing your life or business.

2. Do I need to be tech-savvy to use ChatGPT?

Nope. That’s the whole point of the Girl’s Guide. You don’t need to code or have a tech background. If you can text or type, you can use ChatGPT. The key is learning how to ask the right questions—also known as prompting.

3. What’s the difference between free and paid ChatGPT?

The free version gives you access to a basic model that’s great for everyday use. The paid version gives you a more advanced model with stronger reasoning, better writing, and fewer limitations. If you’re using ChatGPT for content creation, strategy, or deeper tasks, the paid plan is worth it.

4. What is a ChatGPT prompt?

A prompt is the message you type to tell ChatGPT what you want. The better your prompt, the better your result. A strong prompt gives it a role, some context, and a clear request.

Instead of:

“Help me with Instagram.”Try:“Act as a social media strategist. Give me 5 post ideas for a wellness coach on Instagram.”

5. Why is ChatGPT giving me weird or wrong answers?

Sometimes ChatGPT makes things up. This is called a “hallucination.” It happens when it doesn’t have a clear answer, so it fills in the blanks. Always double-check anything that sounds like a fact or stat. ChatGPT is a conversation tool, not a search engine.

6. Can ChatGPT talk out loud?

Yes. With Voice Mode, you can speak directly to ChatGPT and it will respond like a conversation. It’s great for brainstorming, thinking out loud, or using it while multitasking.

7. Can ChatGPT see images or screenshots?

Yes, if you’re using a version with Vision Mode. You can upload an image, screenshot, chart, or document—and ChatGPT can analyze it, explain it, or give feedback.

8. What does roleplaying mean in ChatGPT?

Roleplaying just means assigning ChatGPT a specific role so it gives better answers. You can ask it to act like a branding expert, nutritionist, therapist, coach—whatever you need. It’s a simple way to make your prompts more powerful.

9. Is ChatGPT safe to use?

Yes, but remember—ChatGPT doesn’t store your private info unless you give it. Avoid sharing sensitive data. It’s safe for everyday use, content creation, planning, and more.

10. What can I use ChatGPT for if I’m not a business owner?

You can use it to: