I Turned ChatGPT into the Harshest Writing Critic

Here’s how it’s changing my approach to writing.

The problem with ChatGPT Revisions

ChatGPT can be great for revising writing. However, I’ve always found that it has a huge problem: it’s too nice. ChatGPT feedback lacks the meat that truly drives change in writing.

I wanted a way for ChatGPT to take on the persona of a brutally honest writing critic to tell the hard truths when it comes to bad writing. To tackle this problem, I made a GPT (you can use it here) specifically designed for this purpose. After many dozens of rounds of tweaking, it’s finally working as I intended. Let’s dive in!

How the critic works

This critic is a “GPT,” a custom version of ChatGPT with a personalized instruction set. I instructed it to be anti-fluff, very harsh and cutting, and humorous. In order to increase the harshness factor, I also instructed it to roast the user as it gives feedback. This is perfect for capturing the hard-hitting feedback zone of brutal honesty.

I think this GPT is great at mimicking a tough-love coach, friend, or teacher. While this approach may not work for everyone, it sure works for me. Here’s a sample of the critic in action: