DALL·E Cheat Sheet
A quick reference for DALL·E (in ChatGPT): how to prompt it, set aspect ratios, edit and refine images, and get more accurate, on-brand results.
Getting started
| Feature | Description | Example / tip |
|---|---|---|
| DALL·E generates images inside ChatGPT - just describe what you want in the chat. | 'Make an image of a cozy reading nook' | |
| You can write full sentences; ChatGPT expands them into a detailed image prompt for you. | 'A watercolor cat sleeping on a windowsill' | |
| Ask for the shape you need - square, portrait or wide. | '...as a 16:9 wallpaper' | |
| Ask for variations to compare directions. | 'Give me a few different styles' |
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Refining & editing
| Feature | Description | Example / tip |
|---|---|---|
| Reply with changes instead of starting over - it keeps the same base. | 'Same image but at night' | |
| Select an area of a generated image and describe what to change. | Select the sky, 'make it sunset' | |
| Upload an image and ask for something in a similar style or scene. | 'In the style of this photo' | |
| It can render short text, but keep it brief and spell it out exactly. | 'A poster that says OPEN' |
Getting better results
| Feature | Description | Example / tip |
|---|---|---|
| Say whether it's a photo, 3D render, illustration or painting. | 'flat vector illustration' | |
| Light and atmosphere change the image the most. | 'soft morning light, calm mood' | |
| Framing and camera angle help a lot. | 'close-up, shallow depth of field' | |
| Tell it what you don't want. | 'no text, no borders' |
Frequently asked questions
How do I use DALL·E?
DALL·E is built into ChatGPT. Just describe the image you want in a normal message and it generates one, then you can refine it by replying with changes rather than writing a whole new prompt.
How do I get more accurate images?
Be specific about the medium (photo, illustration, 3D), the lighting and mood, and the composition, and say what to avoid. Iterating - 'same but warmer', 'now at night' - usually beats trying to nail it in one prompt.
Can DALL·E edit an existing image?
Yes. You can upload an image or select a region of a generated one and describe the change, and it will edit just that area while keeping the rest.
Is DALL·E free?
Image generation is available on ChatGPT's paid plans, with limits; the free tier offers limited access that changes over time.
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