# ChatGPT users can employ slash commands like /explainlikeim5 to simplify prompts

Digest AI · Marketing & Small Business · published 2026-09-21T02:59:00Z

Canonical: https://digestai.news/story/chatgpt-users-can-employ-slash-commands-like-explainlikeim5-to-simplif

## Summary

The guide explains that ChatGPT accepts short slash commands (e.g., /explainlikeim5) as informal instructions rather than official features. By prefixing a query with a command, users can ask the model to answer in a specific style—such as a child‑level explanation, a brief summary, or a step‑by‑step walk‑through. The article lists seven useful shortcuts: /explainlikeim5, /tldr, /stepbystep, /compare, /proscons, /factcheck and /brainstorm.

It also shows that commands can be combined, for example "/explainlikeim5 /stepbystep" to get a simple, ordered explanation, or adding "/table" to request a tabular comparison. Users are encouraged to invent their own commands, like "/nomercy" for harsh critiques, because the model simply interprets the text after the slash. The piece promises a later “Slash Command Dictionary” with templates for work, study, writing, research, shopping, travel, brainstorming and programming, and explains how to create custom shortcuts for even more efficient prompting.

## Key points

- Slash commands let users ask ChatGPT for specific response styles, such as simple explanations or summaries.
- Seven built‑in shortcuts (/explainlikeim5, /tldr, /stepbystep, /compare, /proscons, /factcheck, /brainstorm) are highlighted.
- Commands can be chained or custom‑made, enabling tailored prompts without lengthy wording.

## Why it matters

These shortcuts let marketers and small businesses craft concise prompts, saving time and improving response relevance when using ChatGPT for content, research, or brainstorming.

## Sources

1. [Making ChatGPT Your Personal AI: How to Use "/XX" Shortcuts](https://note.com/prime_camel1450/n/na2cb595dd289?hl=en) (note.com, 2026-09-21)

## Cite

Digest AI, "ChatGPT users can employ slash commands like /explainlikeim5 to simplify prompts", 21 September 2026, https://digestai.news/story/chatgpt-users-can-employ-slash-commands-like-explainlikeim5-to-simplif

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