> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.variable.global/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# ChatGPT

> Use Variable from ChatGPT by connecting it as a custom MCP server.

ChatGPT connects to Variable as a **custom MCP server**, added from the **Plugins** page on ChatGPT web. Once added, you `@`-mention Variable in a conversation to use it.

## Before you start

* **MCP is enabled for your Variable account.** Check the **MCP URL** row in [Company settings](https://app.variable.global/company). If it shows **Not enabled**, [email us](mailto:hello@variable.co?subject=MCP%20Access).

## Add Variable

**1. Add a custom MCP server**

Go to **Plugins**, select the plus button, then **Add custom MCP server**.

**2. Enter Variable's details**

Name it `Variable` and enter `https://app.variable.global/mcp` under **Connection**. Choose OAuth for authentication.

**3. Create the plugin**

Select **I understand and want to continue** under the risk warning, then **Create as a plugin**.

**4. Connect your Variable account**

When ChatGPT opens Variable, sign in, pick the account to connect, and select **Allow**.

**5. Test it**

Install the plugin and start a new conversation. Type `@`, select Variable, and ask *"list my Variable accounts"*.

## Use it in a conversation

Selecting Variable with `@` applies to that message only. `@`-mention it again when a follow-up needs new data from Variable; you don't need to for questions about results already in the chat.

## Share it with your workspace

To make Variable available to everyone in the workspace, an admin or owner publishes it. ChatGPT then uses Variable's tool list as it was when it was approved. When Variable adds or changes tools, an admin refreshes the tool list from workspace settings to pick them up; until then, a changed tool can fail.

OpenAI's [custom MCP server guide](https://help.openai.com/en/articles/12584461-connecting-custom-mcp-servers-in-chatgpt) covers publishing and permissions.

## Troubleshooting

| Symptom | Likely cause |
| - | - |
| **Add custom MCP server** isn't offered | Your ChatGPT account can't add custom MCP servers. Ask a workspace admin. |
| A Variable tool fails after working before | The workspace still has an older tool list. Ask an admin to refresh it from workspace settings. |
| ChatGPT answers without using Variable | Variable wasn't selected for that message. Type `@` and select it. |

For anything else, see the general [troubleshooting table](https://docs.variable.global/mcp/configuration#troubleshooting).


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