ChatGPT may soon become a virtual study companion with the introduction of a new feature called Study Together. Screenshots shared by users on social media suggest that OpenAI is currently testing this feature among select ChatGPT Plus subscribers. The new functionality appears in the dropdown menu of the text field and seems to be aimed at making learning more interactive and meaningful for users.
Instead of giving immediate answers to questions, the Study Together mode focuses on breaking down complex topics into manageable parts. It then guides users through each segment by asking questions and encouraging them to think critically. This is similar to the Socratic method, an age old teaching technique that uses dialogue and questions to help learners grasp concepts more effectively. In a digital world where students often turn to AI tools for instant solutions, this approach promotes genuine understanding and reduces the temptation to misuse technology for shortcuts.
Reddit users who spotted the feature have noted that the experience feels more like a conversation with a tutor than a simple query and answer exchange. One user described how ChatGPT took a topic, broke it into smaller ideas, asked follow up questions, and then clarified any confusion with examples and explanations. This interactive approach mirrors how a good teacher would walk a student through a complex subject, making it easier to learn in a natural and engaging way.
What makes this feature especially timely is the growing concern over AI driven academic misconduct. A recent report from the UK revealed that nearly 7,000 confirmed cases of AI related cheating were recorded in universities during the academic year 2023 to 2024. The Study Together mode could serve as a positive alternative, promoting ethical AI use by helping students understand topics instead of bypassing the learning process.
Currently, users can still instruct ChatGPT to teach them something using conversational techniques like the Socratic method, but this new feature would simplify that process and make it more user friendly. It seems designed to become a more structured and accessible tool within the platform, especially useful for students, educators, or anyone looking to understand something in depth rather than skim the surface.
OpenAI has not yet officially announced the launch of Study Together, nor has it confirmed when the feature will roll out to all users. However, its appearance in the interface for some users hints that a broader release could be on the horizon. With education focused features becoming more common across platforms, like Google's recent Gemini for Education, OpenAI appears ready to step into the same space with a powerful offering of its own.
If launched, Study Together could become a game changer in digital learning. By shifting the focus from answers to understanding, OpenAI is pushing ChatGPT beyond just being a chatbot and closer to becoming a real time learning assistant.
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