FAQ
ChatShell FAQ
Short answers in plain language. For step-by-step help, see the quick start and troubleshooting.
Getting started
How do I export a ChatGPT chat?
Open the chat on chatgpt.com, click the round ChatShell button on the right edge of the page, pick PDF, Markdown, DOCX or JSON, and click Export. The file is saved to your browser’s download folder.
Which browsers work?
Chrome and other Chromium browsers such as Edge, Brave and Arc. ChatShell only runs on chatgpt.com.
Is there a keyboard shortcut?
Yes. ChatShell suggests Alt+Shift+E (Option+Shift+E on Mac). If another extension uses it, change it at chrome://extensions/shortcuts.
Which formats can I export?
A single chat can be exported as PDF, Markdown, DOCX or JSON. Batch export, a Pro feature, saves many chats in one ZIP as HTML, Markdown, DOCX or JSON.
Can I export a team workspace?
Yes. Team workspace export is included in Pro.
Free vs paid
What do I get for free?
Every month you can export 3 PDFs and 5 files in other formats. Free exports include a ChatShell watermark and batch export is not included.
When does the free limit reset?
At the start of each calendar month.
What do Standard and Pro add?
Standard ($4/month) gives unlimited single-chat exports without a watermark, plus timestamps and separator removal. Pro ($8/month) adds batch export and team workspace export.
Privacy
Are my conversations uploaded?
No. ChatShell reads the chat you choose and builds the file inside your browser. Your conversation content is not sent to ChatShell servers.
What does ChatShell send over the internet?
ChatShell generates files in your browser. It may fetch conversations and images from ChatGPT and download PDF fonts. Paid license checks send your license key and device ID to the licensing service and Creem. Conversation content is not uploaded to ChatShell's servers.
What permissions does the extension use?
Browser storage for your preferences and license state. It runs on chatgpt.com only.
Why does ChatShell ask for consent on first use?
Before it handles any ChatGPT data, ChatShell shows a welcome page explaining that conversation content stays on your device. You can withdraw consent later in About, under Privacy and data.
Troubleshooting
I clicked and nothing happened. Why?
On first use ChatShell opens a “Welcome to ChatShell” tab to ask for consent. Accept there, return to ChatGPT and click again. Also try reloading the chatgpt.com tab. Full steps.
The shortcut does not work. What should I check?
Open chrome://extensions/shortcuts and see whether ChatShell has a key assigned or a conflict. Full steps.
My PDF did not download. Where is it?
Open chrome://downloads. Very long PDFs are split into parts and delivered as one .zip file. Also check for a blocked-download icon in the address bar. Full steps.
Billing
How do I activate my license?
Open ChatShell, go to Account, paste the license key from your email into Enter License Key and click Activate. Details.
The license email did not arrive. What now?
Wait a few minutes, check spam and Promotions, then email billing@chatshellexport.com with your checkout email. Full steps.
Can I use my subscription on another computer?
A key can be active on a limited number of devices. If you see an activation limit message, email support@chatshellexport.com and we will help. Details.
If I cancel, do I lose access immediately?
No. Cancelling stops renewal only. Access continues until the end of the period you already paid for.
Can I get a refund?
Refunds are available before a license is activated. After activation it is non-refundable, unless the payment provider or local law gives you stronger rights. Email billing@chatshellexport.com.
Is there a student or educator discount?
Yes. Use code EDU20 at checkout on Standard or Pro annual plans. It does not apply to monthly plans.
Policies: Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. Contact: support@chatshellexport.com.