How to Sign Up, Log In, and Use ChatGPT (A Step-by-Step Guide With Pictures)

If you’re over 40 and completely new to AI, this is the perfect place to start.

This guide will walk you through:

✔ creating your ChatGPT account
✔ logging in safely
✔ understanding the interface
✔ sending your first message
✔ what to try next

Everything is explained simply.
No jargon.
No pressure.
No “you should already know this.”

You’re the hero here.
I’m simply your guide, making this new world easy to step into.

Why You Don’t Need to Feel Nervous About Starting AI

Almost everyone over 40 I speak to tells me the same thing:

“I want to learn AI, but I don’t want to feel stupid.”

Here’s the truth:

• You’re not stupid.

• You’re not late.

• You’re not behind.

You are actually early — because MOST people over 40 still haven’t taken this first step.

And once you see how simple it is, you’ll feel confident immediately.

Step 1: Go to the ChatGPT Website

On your phone, tablet, or computer, type:

👉 https://chat.openai.com

You’ll see a clean white page that looks something like this:

Nothing complicated.
Just two buttons: Log in or Sign up.

Step 2: Click “Sign Up”

Press the Sign up button.

You’ll now see a screen asking you to choose how you want to create your account:

• Email

• Google

• Apple

If you want the easiest option: choose Continue with Google.

If you prefer email:

• type your email

• create a password

• click continue

That’s it. No tricks.

Step 3: Confirm Your Email (If Using Email Sign-Up)

If you signed up using your email, check your inbox for a message from OpenAI.

Click Verify Email.

This simply proves it’s really you.

Step 4: Tell ChatGPT Your Name

You’ll be asked for:

• your first name

• your last name

This is only so ChatGPT knows how to address you.

No complicated forms.
Nothing personal.
Nothing to worry about.

Step 5: Let ChatGPT Know Your Age Bracket

You’ll then see a screen asking you to confirm you’re over 18.

Just click Yes.

This is a safety step for all new accounts.

Step 6: You’re In! Here’s What You’ll See

Welcome to the main ChatGPT screen.

It looks like a simple chat window — because that’s all it is.

On the left, you’ll see:

• a menu

• recent chats

• settings

In the middle, you’ll see:

• a large empty space

• a box at the bottom

• a blinking cursor

This is where the magic happens.

Step 7: Type Your First Message

Here is the exact sentence I want you to copy and paste:

“Hi ChatGPT, I’m brand new to AI. Please guide me slowly and clearly.”

Press Enter.

You’ve just taken your first step into using AI.

Well done.

Step 8: How to Ask ChatGPT a Question Properly

There is NO wrong question.

ChatGPT never judges.

Here’s a simple formula you can use:

WHO + WHAT + HOW YOU WANT IT

Examples:

➡ “I’m a beginner. Explain this step-by-step.”
➡ “I’m over 40. Please use simple language.”
➡ “I don’t understand this. Break it down for me.”

This is your secret weapon.
With this one formula, AI becomes 10x easier.

Step 9: Try These 5 Starter Prompts

These are perfect for absolute beginners:

1.

“Create a simple to-do list for me today.”

2.

“Explain what AI is, using no jargon.”

3.

“Help me plan my meals for the week.”

4.

“Rewrite this message to make it polite: …”

5.

“Create a weekly schedule for someone working long hours.”

Each one gives you a fast, confidence-boosting win.

Step 10: What You Can Do Once You’re Logged In

Here are the real-life wins my audience told me AI helped them with:

• writing emails

• planning meals

• organising their week

• creating shopping lists

• learning new skills

• saving hours of time

• understanding confusing topics

• becoming more confident with technology

And the best part?

You can’t break anything.
You can’t delete anything important.
You can’t “mess up.”

ChatGPT is there to help — not to judge.

Common Sign-Up Questions People Over 40 Ask Me

“Is it safe?”

Yes. This is the official OpenAI website.

“Does it cost money?”

There’s a free version.
You don’t need the paid plan.

“Do I need a phone number?”

Sometimes ChatGPT asks for one to verify your identity.
It’s normal.

“Can I change my account later?”

Yes, anytime.

“What if I forget my password?”

You can reset it like email, Facebook, or anything else.

You’re Not Behind You’re Early

This part matters.

Most people your age are still thinking about trying AI.
You’ve actually done it.

You’re ahead.
You’re capable.
You’re learning something that will save you time, stress, and energy for the rest of your life.

And this is just the beginning.

Want Help With Your First Real AI Task?

If you want simple, friendly tutorials delivered straight to your inbox, grab my free starter guide:

👉 Get the Free AI First Steps Guide
(For absolute beginners over 40 who want easy wins.)

You’ll learn:

• how to make AI plan your week

• how to write emails faster

• how to save hours with simple prompts

All in calm, clear language.