One of the most powerful features of ChatGPT is its ability to analyze and interact with uploaded files. Whether you’re sharing a document, spreadsheet, or PDF, uploading files gives ChatGPT instant context — allowing it to summarize, extract insights, and even edit your content. In this quick tutorial, I walk you through exactly how to upload files to ChatGPT and get the most out of them.

Uploading files is a simple process, but the results can transform how you work. Instead of copying and pasting text, you can feed ChatGPT full datasets or long documents to process instantly.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Open a New Chat
Head to the ChatGPT interface (using GPT-4, if available). Click “+ New Chat” to start fresh.

2. Look for the Paperclip Icon
On desktop, you’ll see a small paperclip icon next to the message box. This is your upload tool.

3. Choose a File to Upload
Click it and select your file — Word docs, PDFs, CSVs, or text files work best. ChatGPT will instantly scan the file and prepare to answer questions based on its contents.

4. Ask Specific Questions
Once uploaded, type queries like:

  • “Summarize this document in 3 bullet points.”

  • “List all dates and deadlines mentioned.”

  • “Extract the main financial data.”

The more specific your question, the better ChatGPT performs.

5. Combine Multiple Files
You can upload several related documents to cross-reference information — for example, comparing two contracts or merging data insights.

6. Delete Files After Use (Optional)
For privacy reasons, you can delete the files after the session by ending the chat. Uploaded files aren’t saved long-term.

Pro Tip:
Use this feature to speed up work like content summarization, report writing, or email drafting. ChatGPT can handle heavy text processing in seconds, freeing up your time for strategic tasks.

File uploads turn ChatGPT into a true digital assistant — one that reads, understands, and works with your materials seamlessly. Once you start using it this way, you’ll wonder how you ever worked without it.