# ChatGPT desktop app

> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://learn.chatgpt.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to the page URL.

## Your command center for complex work

Run projects in parallel, work with files, use your computer, and keep long-running work moving from one desktop workspace.

### Why use the desktop app

- **Keep every chat in view:** Move between projects and long-running work without losing context.
- **Create and inspect real outputs:** Open documents, spreadsheets, images, and other files in the same workspace.
- **Work across your tools:** Use the browser, desktop apps, and plugins, or schedule a task inside a chat.

## Get started with the desktop app

Install ChatGPT, sign in, choose where to work, and send your first message.

1. **Install the ChatGPT desktop app.** [Download ChatGPT](https://chatgpt.com/download/) for Windows or macOS.
2. **Open ChatGPT and sign in.** Open the app, then sign in with your ChatGPT account.
3. **Choose where to work.** Start a chat, create a project, or open a folder. ChatGPT can use the files and context in the location you choose. [Learn about chats and projects](https://learn.chatgpt.com/docs/projects).
4. **Send your first message.** Choose ChatGPT or Codex. In ChatGPT, use the toggle above the composer to select Chat or Work. In Codex, start with New chat. For a quick question, point to New chat and select the Quick chat icon on its right. Then describe the result you want and add any files or context ChatGPT needs. [Learn how to use ChatGPT](https://learn.chatgpt.com/docs/use-chatgpt).

### Next steps

- [Organize work with projects](https://learn.chatgpt.com/docs/projects)
- [Create and inspect files](https://learn.chatgpt.com/docs/artifacts-viewer)
- [Use the browser and your computer](https://learn.chatgpt.com/docs/computer-use)

## See what the app can do

Turn everyday work into outputs you can review, refine, and share.

- [Start each day with a focused work brief](https://learn.chatgpt.com/use-cases/daily-work-brief): Review priorities across your calendar, messages, email, and project context.
- [Analyze files and create interactive visuals](https://learn.chatgpt.com/use-cases/analyze-data-export): Turn a data export into a finding you can inspect and share.
- [Turn scattered context into a finished PRD](https://learn.chatgpt.com/use-cases/draft-prds-from-sources): Bring sources together, synthesize them, and create a working document.
- [Clean and prepare messy data](https://learn.chatgpt.com/use-cases/clean-messy-data): Turn a messy CSV or spreadsheet into a clean copy without changing the original.
- [Turn feedback into actions](https://learn.chatgpt.com/use-cases/feedback-synthesis): Synthesize feedback from multiple sources into a reviewable artifact.

## Use the ChatGPT desktop app when…

- [Coordinate several projects](https://learn.chatgpt.com/docs/projects): Keep parallel work visible and move between chats quickly.
- [Create and review files](https://learn.chatgpt.com/docs/artifacts-viewer): Build finished work and inspect it without leaving ChatGPT.
- [Use the browser and your computer](https://learn.chatgpt.com/docs/computer-use): Give ChatGPT access to the tools a task requires.
- [Schedule recurring work](https://learn.chatgpt.com/docs/automations#schedule-a-task-inside-a-chat): Create a standalone scheduled task or schedule a task inside an existing chat.