# Project (ChatGPT)

> A home in ChatGPT for one piece of ongoing work, keeping its files, instructions, and chats together so every new chat starts briefed.

**Category:** ChatGPT

**A project groups everything for one stream of work.** You add the **files** it leans on, write **project instructions** as a standing brief, and keep all its **chats** in one place. Every new chat inside starts with that context.

Project instructions take priority over your [custom instructions](/glossary#chatgpt-custom-instructions) inside the project. Each project has a memory setting: default, or **project-only** to fence it off. On Business you can share a project with colleagues, with Edit or Chat access. Shared projects always use project-only memory.

## At work

Make one project per client: contract, brand guide, and last report as files, a five-line brief as instructions. Monday's status email needs no background.

## Often confused with

A folder. A project doesn't just store things; it briefs every chat inside it with those files and instructions.

## Related terms

- Custom instructions (ChatGPT)
- Memory (ChatGPT)
- Skill (ChatGPT)

## See it in a lesson

[Projects](/en/learn/chatgpt/working-smart/projects)

## Further reading

- [Projects in ChatGPT](https://help.openai.com/en/articles/10169521-projects-in-chatgpt): Creating, sharing, file limits, and memory.
- [Uploading files and audio to ChatGPT](https://help.openai.com/en/articles/8555545-file-uploads-faq): What files you can add.
- [Moving to the new ChatGPT desktop app](https://help.openai.com/en/articles/20001276-moving-to-the-new-chatgpt-desktop-app): Starting Chat or Work from a project.

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Last updated: 14/10/2026  
Source: Rollo Academy glossary