Why does ChatGPT sometimes make things up?
You will learn why ChatGPT invents answers, and how to spot it.
Sometimes ChatGPT gives an answer that is not true. People call this "making things up."
It does this because it guesses the next words. It wants to sound helpful. So it may fill gaps with a guess.
It does not know it is wrong. It is not trying to trick you. It just does not always know the difference.
This happens most with names, dates, web links, and exact facts. So check those carefully.
Try this
- Be a little careful with facts, names, and dates.
- If a web link does not work, it may be made up.
- Ask, "Is that really true? Please double-check."
- Look up important facts on a trusted website too.
- Never act on big decisions from one answer alone.
A message you can copy
Please answer [your question]. If you are not sure of a fact, say so plainly instead of guessing.
Paste it into ChatGPT, then change the words in brackets to fit you. It opens in a new tab, so you will not lose this page.
Buddy says
If an answer feels too perfect or too specific, give it a second look.