ChatGPT’s temperature setting is a powerful yet sometimes unappreciated and misunderstood parameter. Essentially, the temperature controls the predictability vs creativity of the model’s outcome.  It’s function in the model’s output is often misunderstood.

To illustrate, imagine conducting a business meeting. A low temperature setting equates to a structured, agenda-driven discussion with familiar topics and predictable outcomes. On the contrary, a higher temperature is analogous to a brainstorming session where innovative ideas are exchanged, encompassing a range of topics, some of which may be unconventional.

Lower temperature settings at ChatGPT ensure consistent, coherent outputs, optimal for factual inquiries or advice. However, as the temperature rises, outputs diversify, taking on a more inventive character. ChatGPT’s default temperature typically ranges between 0.1 and 0.2, though adjustments can be made within a 0 to 1 range, contingent on the context. Note that each user prompt necessitates an individual temperature setting, and a universal setting isn’t presently feasible, barring the utilization of specific third-party tools.

To illustrate, here are some examples:

Prompt: “Recommend 5 names for a potential future NFL player.”

Response at Temperature 0:

• Jackson Brady
• Logan Manning
• Carter Montana
• Cooper Elway
• Nolan Favre

Response at Temperature 1:

• Orion Puck
• Maverick Rink
• Zephyr Blade
• Flynn Slapshot
• Jasper Icicle

As you can see, increasing the temperature makes names less mainstream and more creative.

Another example:

Prompt: “How can I make money?”

Response at Temperature 0:

1. Pursue a high-paying career aligning with your skills and interests.
2. Save a portion of your income and minimize unnecessary expenses.
3. Make wise investments in assets like stocks, bonds, and real estate.
4. Initiate a side business or freelance for additional income.
5. Continually enhance your skills and education to boost your earning potential.

Response at Temperature 1:

1. Create a YouTube channel to showcase unique skills or interests and earn ad revenue.
2. Launch a distinctive food truck business if you have a culinary passion.
3. Sell handmade crafts on platforms like Etsy.
4. Become a virtual assistant as many businesses hire remote workers.
5. Write and self-publish a novel using self-publishing platforms for potential royalties.

Let’s go further by examining the food truck proposition in a city like Austin:

Prompt: “What’s a good food truck to launch in Austin?”

Response at Temperature 0:

Given Austin’s diverse food scene and love for Tex-Mex, launching a food truck specializing in creative fusion tacos could be a hit. Offering a variety of fillings, from traditional to vegan, could attract a broad audience. Unique sauces and side dishes could differentiate you from competitors.

Response at Temperature 1:

Considering Austin’s taste for unique, adventurous food, a “Global Grilled Cheese” food truck might fare well. The concept could revolve around gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches, each inspired by world cuisines. For instance, a ‘French’ grilled cheese could include brie and fig jam, while an ‘Italian’ one could have mozzarella, tomato, and basil. Even a ‘Tex-Mex’ grilled cheese with pepper jack cheese, jalapenos, and avocado could feature. This fun twist on comfort food might make a splash in the Austin food scene.

 A taco food truck in Austin? Seems like there’s one in every corner of the city. But a global grilled cheese food truck, now that’s something creative and exciting!

So, if you are seeking more inventive outputs from ChatGPT, adjusting the temperature parameter can be a valuable tool. Whether your preference is for structured responses or more creative suggestions, understanding this setting can optimize your ChatGPT experience.