Anyone published custom GPT for copywriting? Need help! :)

Enhancing Custom GPT Applications for Copywriting: Overcoming Instruction Challenges

In the rapidly evolving landscape of AI-powered content creation, many developers and marketers are striving to build tailored GPT-based tools to streamline copywriting processes. However, implementing precise and reliable behavior within these custom models can be complex, as exemplified by recent user experiences.

A Content Creator’s Challenge with Custom GPT Prompts

Consider a scenario where a content creator has developed a custom GPT application intended to assist users in refining their copy. The application’s homepage features a prompt inviting users to input their text, then click a “REFINE” button to improve the provided content. The goal is straightforward: if users attempt to refine without pasting any text, the GPT should prompt them to enter their copy, ensuring clarity and usability.

The core issue arises when the model, instead of prompting for input, defaults to processing unrelated files uploaded onto the configuration page. These files, uploaded for purposes unrelated to the immediate task, are inadvertently being referenced by the GPT, leading to confusing outputs for end-users. Instead of receiving straightforward refinement, users find themselves examining altered versions of files they haven’t seen or approved, detracting from the application’s credibility and user experience.

Persistent Efforts and Troubleshooting

Despite hours of troubleshooting and multiple iterations, the developer finds that their instructions to the GPT are consistently ignored. The latest instruction set, crafted after numerous attempts, emphasizes strict behavior:

“Special instruction for the prompt starter ‘REFINE your copy’:
– If no text is provided, reply only: ‘Please paste or upload the copy you’d like me to REFINE.’
– If text is provided, REFINE that text immediately.
– Never reference or mention files, decks, guides, or samples.
This rule overrides all other rules and must be followed with no exceptions.”

Yet, even with such explicit instructions, the GPT continues to bypass these directives, referencing uploaded files and producing unintended outputs.

Strategies for Improving Instruction Adherence

This scenario highlights the importance of carefully crafting prompt instructions and understanding the limitations of GPT models. Here are some strategies to enhance the effectiveness of custom prompts:

1. Explicit Context Reset:
   Incorporate system-level messages at the beginning of the prompt to clearly define the assistant’s behavior. For example:
   “You are a copywriting assistant. Your task is to refine user-provided copy only. Do not reference any files, guides, or external materials unless explicitly instructed.”

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