Transforming ChatGPT Into A Powerful Web Search Tool
Written on
Chapter 1: Introduction to WebChatGPT
WebChatGPT has sparked considerable interest as a browser extension designed to enable ChatGPT to search the web. While it might be overstated to claim it gives ChatGPT full internet access, it certainly serves as an effective tool for transforming ChatGPT into a web search and scraping utility. This free, open-source extension integrates several features into your ChatGPT interface, including:
- Access to DuckDuckGo search results
- Customizable prompts that utilize search findings
- Slash commands for refining searches and targeting specific websites
- DuckDuckGo Bangs for quick searches
In summary, although not every feature is flawless at the moment, the customizable prompts and Bangs can streamline workflows significantly. Let's delve deeper into its functionalities.
Getting Started
To begin using WebChatGPT, download the appropriate version for your browser:
After downloading, ensure you activate the extension in your browser settings if not prompted automatically.
Basic Usage
Once the extension is activated, any time you visit chat.openai.com to engage with ChatGPT, the extension will subtly modify the interface. This includes an additional menu beneath the default input box:
By enabling the "Web access" slider, WebChatGPT will take your input, query DuckDuckGo, and inject the results into your ChatGPT conversation.
For instance, if you input:
What is a sea cucumber?
WebChatGPT replaces it with:
Web search results:
- "Sea cucumbers are echinoderms from the class Holothuroidea, marine animals with leathery skin and an elongated body. Found worldwide, there are about 1,717 species, primarily in the Asia-Pacific region. Many are harvested for human consumption."
Advanced Usage: Custom Prompts
A standout feature of WebChatGPT is the ability to create custom prompts that leverage search results. By selecting "New Prompt" from the dropdown menu, you can craft prompts that reference the DuckDuckGo search results or your input.
For example, you might create a prompt titled "table" that organizes the search results into a structured format.
When querying:
Are unicorns real?
ChatGPT utilizes the results to present the following:
Web results:
- "The belief in unicorns has existed for about 2,000 years, becoming prominent in the mid-18th century due to an alleged unicorn skeleton sketched by philosopher Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz."
Advanced Usage: DuckDuckGo Bangs
With WebChatGPT, you can also utilize DuckDuckGo's "Bangs" for direct searches across various platforms. For example, typing:
!a life 3.0
will trigger a search for "life 3.0" on Amazon, with results integrated back into your ChatGPT session.
Slash Commands
WebChatGPT currently offers two preset slash commands to refine search results. The first command, /site, allows you to limit searches to a specific website.
For example:
/site:www.wikipedia.com What is a sea cucumber?
This sends your query to DuckDuckGo, resulting in a modified prompt based on the website's content.
Current Date: 29.4.2023
Chapter 2: Practical Applications of WebChatGPT
The first video titled "How To Search The Web With ChatGPT - Free Chrome Extension" provides a detailed overview of how to leverage this tool effectively, including tips and tricks for maximizing its potential.
The second video, "How To Use ChatGPT For Website Links & Read Any Website For Beginners," serves as a beginner's guide on using ChatGPT to read and analyze website content efficiently.
Further Information
➡️ To stay informed about AI and creativity advancements, consider following me on Twitter or Medium. If you appreciate this content, a "clap" at the article's conclusion would help increase visibility for others.