ChatGPT now lets you turn off those em dashes—here's how

Technology Nov 15, 2025

OpenAI just added a handy option in ChatGPT: you can now tell it to stop using em dashes by tweaking your custom instructions.
This update comes after the release of GPT-5.1, which focused on making the AI better at following instructions and personalizing your experience.
Some users have noticed their settings don't always stick yet, but it's a step toward more control.

Quick guide: What's an em dash & how do you disable it?

An em dash (that long line—like this) is used for emphasis or to break up sentences.
If you're not a fan, head to Settings > Custom Instructions in ChatGPT and let it know your preference. Just remember, this isn't automatic—you'll need to set it up yourself!