Building with the ChatGPT API
The ChatGPT API lets you integrate GPT-4o's capabilities into your own applications. Here's how to build a custom chatbot from scratch.
Prerequisites
- Python 3.8+ installed
- OpenAI API key
- Basic Python knowledge
Step 1: Setup
pip install openai python-dotenv
Create a .env file with your API key: OPENAI_API_KEY=sk-your-key-here
Step 2: Basic Chatbot
from openai import OpenAI
client = OpenAI()
response = client.chat.completions.create(
model="gpt-4o",
messages=[
{"role": "system", "content": "You are a helpful assistant."},
{"role": "user", "content": "Hello!"}
]
)
print(response.choices[0].message.content)
Step 3: Add Conversation Memory
Store conversation history to maintain context. Keep recent messages within the token limit for coherent conversations.
Step 4: System Prompts
Customize your chatbot's behavior with detailed system prompts. Example: "You are a customer support agent for an e-commerce store. Be friendly, helpful, and concise."
Step 5: Function Calling
Enable your chatbot to perform actions like checking order status or booking appointments through function calling.
Deployment Options
- Flask web app for simple deployment
- Streamlit for rapid prototyping
- FastAPI for production APIs
- Embed with JavaScript widget on any website