ChatGPT’s Em Dash Dilemma: A Simple Fix for a Controversial Issue
The em dash conundrum has divided opinions, but there’s a solution!
OpenAI has stepped up to address the notorious em dash issue in ChatGPT, offering a simple yet effective fix. While the em dash has become a telltale sign of AI-generated content, it’s also sparked a debate: is it truly a problem, or just a unique quirk of AI writing? And here’s where it gets controversial: some argue it’s an age-old punctuation mark, while others see it as a modern-day indicator of AI.
But fear not, as OpenAI has found a way to give users control over this punctuation mark. ChatGPT won’t eliminate the em dash entirely, but with a few simple steps, you can ensure it’s used sparingly.
And this is the part most people miss: it’s not just about removing the em dash; it’s about personalizing ChatGPT to your preferences.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Em Dash Control
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Open ChatGPT: Start by accessing the platform, whether through the web or mobile app.
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Navigate to Settings: On the web version, click on your profile icon, then select ‘Settings’ and ‘Personalisation’.
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Custom Instructions: Click on the ‘Custom Instructions’ field and start typing your preferences.
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Set Your Preferences: Type an instruction like ‘Please do not use em dashes’ to guide ChatGPT’s writing style.
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Save and Enjoy: Tap ‘Save’ to apply your changes, and voila! ChatGPT will now follow your instructions.
Why the Em Dash Debate?
The em dash’s prevalence in AI-generated text has led to its association with AI. However, many writers and language enthusiasts argue that the em dash has a long history in writing, predating large language models. So, is it fair to label content as AI-generated solely based on its use?
There’s no clear consensus, but OpenAI’s solution offers a middle ground, allowing users to decide how they want ChatGPT to write.
Technical Details: A Mystery Unveiled?
While OpenAI has provided a solution, they haven’t revealed the technical intricacies of how they achieved it. This has left some users curious and others speculating. Could it be a simple tweak to the model’s training data? Or a more complex adjustment to its reinforcement learning process?
Custom Instructions: A Powerful Tool
OpenAI’s custom instructions feature is a powerful tool, allowing users to tailor ChatGPT to their needs. It’s available to all users, including those on the free tier, but its rollout in certain regions, like the UK and EU, is unclear.
So, what do you think? Is the em dash an issue that needs addressing, or is it a unique AI signature? Share your thoughts in the comments; we’d love to hear your perspective!