ChatGPT Code Interpreter, now often called Advanced Data Analysis, lets ChatGPT write and run Python code in a sandbox. Instead of only explaining how to calculate something, it can produce the actual result, chart, cleaned file, or table.
Does this affect you?
Use this for ChatGPT web or desktop app when you need calculations, data analysis, charts, file cleanup, or coding help. Paid plans usually have broader access, while free access may be limited.
Turn on and use Code Interpreter
On current accounts, this often activates automatically when the task needs computation.
- Open ChatGPT and sign in.
- Start a new chat.
- Ask for a task that requires real computation, such as compound interest over ten years or a chart from five numbers.
- ChatGPT writes and runs code behind the scenes and returns the result.
- Ask Show me the code you used if you want to inspect the Python.
- If a tool selector appears, choose Code Interpreter, Advanced Data Analysis, or a similarly named option.
Analyze your own files with it
This is where the feature becomes especially useful.
- Click the paperclip or attachment icon.
- Upload a spreadsheet, CSV, text file, or supported data file.
- Ask a plain-language question such as top five rows by revenue, remove duplicate entries, or plot monthly totals.
- Review the answer and download any cleaned file or chart ChatGPT provides.
- Ask follow-up questions in the same chat so it continues using the uploaded file.
More control
The sandbox is isolated
The code runs in a temporary environment that cannot access your other files and typically cannot browse the internet. It works with the files you upload into that conversation.
Limits still apply
Large files, long-running calculations, and old sessions can hit limits or reset. Split very large datasets when needed.
Specific requests beat vague ones
Analyze this usually produces a generic overview. Ask for a pivot table by region, a cleaned CSV, a line chart by month, or duplicate rows removed.
Protect sensitive files
Avoid uploading passwords, medical records, account numbers, confidential workbooks, or private customer data unless your plan and organization allow it.
Sources
- OpenAI Help Center – What is Code Interpreter? (2026)
- OpenAI – ChatGPT release notes: Advanced Data Analysis (2025)
- OpenAI Help Center – ChatGPT plans and features (2026)