Conversational context and memory

ChatGPT maintains context within individual conversations, tracking entities, relationships, and objectives mentioned in earlier messages. This allows coherent multi-turn discussions where you can reference previous points without restating them. Each response builds on the established context.

Outside of memory-enabled setups, conversations are isolated. In the default mode, starting a new conversation means ChatGPT has no access to previous chats and requires you to re-establish context. If memory is turned on, ChatGPT can retain certain key facts you’ve shared across sessions, but it does not store entire conversations verbatim. You can review, edit, or delete this stored information at any time.

Product teams can use this contextual capability for iterative development. Begin with broad concepts and refine through follow-up questions. Use referential phrases like “expanding on that” or “regarding the previous point” to maintain continuity while building comprehensive solutions.