ChatGPT secret codes are better understood as prompt shortcuts or instruction keywords rather than hidden commands built into ChatGPT. The image above shows 32 popular prompt-style codes such as /Human, /Eli5, /xthink, /Research, /Simplify, /Expand, /Expert, /Blueprint, /Flowchart and others. You can use these ideas to tell an AI how you want an answer to look, how detailed it should be, or what style of explanation you prefer. In this guide, we will explain these 32 ChatGPT prompt shortcuts in simple English and give practical examples so you can understand when and how to use them.
ChatGPT Secret Codes: 32 Prompt Shortcuts Explained With Examples
Many people search for ChatGPT secret codes because they want faster, clearer and more useful answers. However, there is an important point to understand first: these slash-style words are generally prompt instructions, not guaranteed official ChatGPT commands. ChatGPT does not necessarily have a hidden command system where typing every word after a slash activates a special internal mode.
The useful idea behind the image is different. These words can work as instruction shortcuts. Instead of writing a long instruction every time, you can tell ChatGPT what kind of response you want by using a short phrase such as /Simplify, /Research, /Expert or /Flowchart.
Simple example: Instead of asking, “Please explain cloud computing in simple language with an example and avoid technical terms,” you could write: /Simplify Explain cloud computing with an everyday example.
Main Topics: Quick Shortcut Guide
What Are ChatGPT Prompt Codes?
A prompt code is a short instruction used to influence the style, depth, structure or focus of an AI response. For example, you can ask ChatGPT to explain something like a teacher, simplify a difficult topic, compare pros and cons, create a step-by-step plan or translate text.
The biggest advantage is not the slash symbol itself. The advantage comes from giving ChatGPT a clear instruction about your desired output. Good prompts normally include the topic, audience, goal, format and important limitations.
For example:
- Weak prompt: Tell me about loans.
- Better prompt: Explain secured personal loans for beginners in simple English.
- Structured prompt: Explain secured personal loans using pros, cons, eligibility, documents and a simple example.
1. /Human — Make the Answer More Natural
/Human asks for a more natural, conversational and relatable writing style. It can be useful when an answer sounds too robotic or formal.
Example: /Human Explain why people create emergency funds.
The goal is to receive an explanation that feels more like a natural conversation instead of a highly technical textbook.
2. /Eli5 or /Eli10 — Explain for a Beginner
/Eli5 is inspired by the phrase “Explain Like I'm 5.” It asks for very simple language. /Eli10 can be interpreted as a slightly more advanced beginner explanation.
Example: /Eli5 Explain how Wi-Fi works.
A useful answer would compare Wi-Fi to an invisible connection that allows devices to communicate with a router, while avoiding unnecessary technical terminology.
3. /xthink — Ask for Deeper Problem Analysis
The image lists /xthink as an instruction to think deeply before answering. In practice, you should not assume that this activates a special hidden reasoning mode. Instead, you can explicitly ask for careful analysis, assumptions, alternatives and a clear conclusion.
Better prompt: “Analyze this problem carefully. Identify the important factors, compare the alternatives and give me the final recommendation with a concise explanation.”
4. /Visuallearning — Learn With Visual Structure
/Visuallearning asks for diagrams, tables, examples or other visual-style explanations. It is especially useful for students and people who understand concepts better when information is organized visually.
Example: /Visuallearning Explain the water cycle using a simple diagram and numbered stages.
5. /Explodedview — Break an Object Into Parts
/Explodedview is useful when you want to understand the internal components of an object. For example, you can ask for an exploded-view explanation of a smartphone, bicycle, computer or mechanical device.
Example: /Explodedview Explain the main components inside a laptop.
For image generation, you can also explicitly request an exploded technical illustration rather than relying on the shortcut alone.
6. /Decode — Simplify Difficult Information
/Decode can be used when a document, concept or technical explanation is difficult to understand.
Example: /Decode Explain this insurance policy in simple English and define difficult terms.
7. /Ultra easy — Make It Very Simple
/Ultra easy asks for simple words, short sentences and minimal complexity. It is useful for beginners, quick learning and basic explanations.
Example: /Ultra easy Explain inflation in five short points.
8. /Conceptclear — Understand the Core Concept
/Conceptclear focuses on making the main idea clear before adding complicated details.
Example: /Conceptclear Explain artificial intelligence with three everyday examples.
9. /Pros-cons — Compare Advantages and Disadvantages
/Pros-cons is useful when making a decision. It tells the AI to present benefits and limitations in a balanced way.
| Topic | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Electric Vehicle | Lower running costs, quieter driving | Charging time, charging access |
10. /Top20 — Get the Most Important Points
/Top20 asks for a list of 20 important points, ideas or items related to a subject.
Example: /Top20 Give me 20 important tips for improving website speed.
11. /Conceptfirst — Learn the Idea Before the Details
/Conceptfirst follows a logical learning order: first explain the basic concept, then move toward details, examples and advanced information.
This is particularly useful for education, science, programming and business topics.
12. /X10 — Ask for a More Valuable Answer
/X10 is presented in the image as a way to request a much deeper or more useful answer. Instead of treating it as a magical command, write exactly what you want improved.
Example: /X10 Improve this blog introduction with stronger search intent, examples and reader-friendly language.
13. /Killcritic — Try to Remove Weaknesses
/Killcritic can be interpreted as a request to critically review an answer and identify weaknesses. A clearer version would be:
“Critically review this answer. Find factual gaps, unclear statements, missing points and possible objections, then improve it.”
14. /Logic-step — Use Logical Steps
/Logic-step asks for a structured solution. It is helpful for calculations, planning, troubleshooting and problem solving.
Example: /Logic-step Show the steps needed to create a monthly budget.
15. /Story — Learn Through a Story
/Story asks ChatGPT to explain a concept through a story or real-life situation. Stories can make complicated subjects easier to remember.
Example: /Story Explain compound interest through the story of a person saving money.
16. /Teacher — Learn Like a Student
/Teacher asks for a structured, educational explanation. You can combine it with a level such as beginner, school student or professional learner.
Example: /Teacher Explain photosynthesis to a beginner, followed by a quiz.
17. /Fast — Get a Short Answer
/Fast asks for a quick, direct answer without unnecessary explanation.
Example: /Fast Give me five benefits of regular exercise.
This can be useful when you need a quick answer rather than a long article.
18. /Research — Request Research-Based Information
/Research tells the AI that you want a research-oriented answer with reliable sources or evidence where available. However, the shortcut itself does not guarantee that information has been externally verified.
Important: For current facts, scientific claims, prices, laws, product specifications or breaking news, ask for up-to-date sources and verification. A shortcut alone does not turn an answer into verified research.
19. /Simplify — Turn Complex Information Into Simple Language
/Simplify is one of the most useful prompt shortcuts for everyday users.
Example: /Simplify Explain blockchain technology in 100 words with one everyday example.
20. /Expand — Add More Useful Detail
/Expand asks the AI to develop a short answer into a more detailed explanation.
Example: /Expand Explain the important factors to consider before buying a smartphone.
21. /80-20(Topic) — Focus on the Most Important Information
The 80/20 principle, also known as the Pareto Principle, is used to focus on the small number of factors that may provide a large share of the useful understanding.
Example: /80-20(SEO) Tell me the most important SEO factors a beginner should learn first.
Remember that 80/20 is a useful prioritization framework, not a guarantee that exactly 80% of results always come from exactly 20% of causes.
22. /Chain of thought — Use a Safer Alternative
The image includes /Chain of thought and describes it as showing the full reasoning behind an answer. It is better not to rely on a request for hidden internal reasoning. Instead, ask for a concise reasoning summary, assumptions, key steps and final conclusion.
Better example: “Give me the key steps and assumptions behind your answer, without unnecessary internal reasoning.”
23. /Expert — Get an Expert-Level Explanation
/Expert asks for a more advanced answer using domain-specific terminology and deeper context.
Example: /Expert Explain how lithium-ion battery degradation happens.
24. /Blueprint — Create a Step-by-Step Plan
/Blueprint is useful for projects, businesses, websites, learning plans and other goals.
Example: /Blueprint Create a step-by-step plan for launching a small online store.
25. /Flowchart — Show a Process Visually
/Flowchart asks for a process in flowchart form. If the AI cannot create an actual visual diagram in the current interface, you can ask for a text-based flowchart using arrows and decision points.
Example: /Flowchart Show the steps for troubleshooting a slow internet connection.
26. /Isometric — Request an Isometric 3D View
/Isometric is especially useful for image-generation prompts, architecture, product concepts, diagrams and technical illustrations.
Example: /Isometric Create a clean 3D view of a modern home office.
27. /Deepdive — Explore a Topic in Greater Depth
/Deepdive asks for a detailed exploration of a subject. You can make it more useful by specifying the audience, scope and desired sections.
Example: /Deepdive Explain how generative AI works, including benefits, limitations, applications and risks.
28. /Solve (math) — Solve a Math Problem Clearly
/Solve (math) tells the AI that you want a mathematical problem solved with clear steps.
Example: /Solve (math) If 5x + 10 = 35, find x.
The answer can then explain the calculation in a beginner-friendly way rather than providing only the final number.
29. /Mistakes (algebra) — Find Common Algebra Errors
/Mistakes (algebra) can be used as a prompt pattern to identify common errors in algebra. You can replace algebra with another subject.
Example: /Mistakes (algebra) Explain five common mistakes students make when solving equations.
30. /Translate — Translate Between Languages
/Translate is a straightforward instruction for translation.
Example: /Translate Translate this English paragraph into simple Spanish.
For better results, specify whether you want a formal, casual, professional, local or literal translation.
31. /Generatehandwrittenimage — Create a Handwritten-Style Image
/Generatehandwrittenimage is presented as a request for a handwritten-style image or notes. For image generation, a detailed prompt is normally better than depending on the shortcut alone.
Example: “Create a clean handwritten study note about the water cycle on white paper, with headings, arrows and simple diagrams.”
32. /Generateimageacross-sectional — Create a Cross-Section Image
/Generateimageacross-sectional can be interpreted as a request for a cross-sectional illustration showing the inside of an object, structure or concept.
Example: “Create a realistic cross-sectional illustration of a modern electric car battery pack, showing its major internal components.”
How to Combine These ChatGPT Prompt Shortcuts
You do not have to use only one instruction. You can combine several instructions into a single well-designed prompt.
Example:
/Teacher + /Simplify + /Visuallearning
Prompt: “Explain cloud computing to a beginner. Use simple English, a real-life example, a small comparison table and a simple visual-style explanation.”
This is generally more reliable than simply writing several unexplained slash commands. The clearer your actual instruction, the more predictable the result.
Best Way to Write a Powerful ChatGPT Prompt
Instead of memorizing dozens of secret codes, learn this simple structure:
- Role: Tell ChatGPT what perspective to use.
- Task: Clearly explain what you want.
- Audience: Mention who will read or use the answer.
- Format: Ask for bullets, table, steps, article or checklist.
- Length: Specify short, medium or detailed.
- Examples: Ask for practical examples when useful.
- Restrictions: Mention things to avoid.
Example of a strong prompt:
“Act as a beginner-friendly technology teacher. Explain smartphone battery health in simple English. Give the answer in short sections, include five practical tips, one everyday example, common mistakes and a short FAQ. Avoid unnecessary technical terminology.”
Are These Really Official ChatGPT Secret Codes?
No—not necessarily. The terms in the image should not be treated as guaranteed official ChatGPT commands. Some may influence an answer because they are understandable instructions, while others may have little or no special effect unless you explain what you mean.
The most important lesson is that prompt engineering is about communicating your desired result clearly. A slash, number or special-looking word does not automatically unlock a hidden AI capability.
ChatGPT Prompt Shortcuts: Quick Reference Table
| Shortcut | Main Purpose | Best Use |
|---|---|---|
| /Human | Natural tone | Blogs and conversations |
| /Eli5 | Very simple explanation | Beginners |
| /Simplify | Reduce complexity | Technical topics |
| /Research | Research-oriented response | Detailed information |
| /Expand | Add detail | Short answers |
| /Expert | Advanced explanation | Professional topics |
| /Blueprint | Create a plan | Projects and goals |
| /Flowchart | Show a process | Workflows |
| /Deepdive | Detailed exploration | Complex subjects |
| /Translate | Language conversion | Multilingual work |
Tips for Getting Better Answers From ChatGPT
- Give context: Explain why you need the information.
- Specify your audience: Beginner, student, customer or professional.
- Ask for a format: Table, checklist, bullets, steps or article.
- Set the scope: Tell ChatGPT what to include and exclude.
- Ask for examples: Examples often make difficult concepts easier.
- Verify important information: Especially for medical, financial, legal, technical or current information.
- Use follow-up prompts: Ask ChatGPT to simplify, expand, compare or improve the first answer.
FAQ: ChatGPT Secret Codes
Are ChatGPT secret codes real commands?
Most of the codes shown in the image are better understood as prompt shortcuts or instruction patterns, not guaranteed official commands. Their effectiveness depends on how clearly the instruction communicates your desired result.
Does /Eli5 really activate a special ChatGPT mode?
Not necessarily. It is a useful instruction meaning “explain this in very simple language.” You can achieve the same result by directly asking ChatGPT for a beginner-friendly explanation.
Which ChatGPT prompt code is most useful?
There is no single best code. /Simplify, /Research, /Expert, /Blueprint, /Expand and structured natural-language instructions can all be useful depending on the task.
Can I combine multiple prompt shortcuts?
Yes. You can combine instructions such as simple language, expert perspective, table format and step-by-step structure. It is usually better to clearly describe the desired output rather than rely only on shortcut names.
Does /Chain of thought show ChatGPT's private reasoning?
You should not rely on it to reveal hidden internal reasoning. Instead, ask for a concise explanation of the key steps, assumptions, evidence and conclusion.
Can these shortcuts improve blog writing?
Yes. Prompt patterns such as natural tone, simplify, expand, expert, research and pros-cons can help you structure content. For SEO content, also provide the target audience, search intent, topic, keywords and desired article structure.
Do I need to memorize all 32 codes?
No. Understanding how to give clear instructions is more valuable than memorizing the slash commands. You can simply describe the result you want in normal language.
Conclusion
The 32 ChatGPT secret codes shown in the image provide a useful collection of prompt ideas for changing the style, depth and structure of AI answers. Codes such as /Human, /Eli5, /Simplify, /Research, /Expert, /Blueprint, /Flowchart and /Deepdive can help you think about what you actually want from an AI response.
However, these should not be treated as magical or guaranteed hidden ChatGPT commands. The real power comes from clear prompting. Tell ChatGPT the task, audience, format, level of detail and desired result. When necessary, ask for examples, sources, limitations and verification.
The best “secret code” is a clear prompt. Once you learn how to communicate your goal precisely, you can create better answers without depending on a long list of special keywords.
Disclaimer
This article explains prompt shortcuts and prompt-writing techniques based on the provided reference image. Slash-style terms are not necessarily official ChatGPT commands or guaranteed features. AI responses can vary by model, settings and context. Always independently verify important information before making financial, medical, legal, business or other high-impact decisions.