OpenAI says GPT‑5.2 is its smartest, most capable model yet— able to reason across long documents, generate complex code, write like a pro and even analyze images. But I had to know, is it really that much better? As a long-time fan of ChatGPT-4o, I have been waiting on a model that is human enough to make me switch.

To find out, I gave GPT‑5.2 nine tough prompts designed to stress-test its top skills: long-context analysis, step-by-step reasoning, technical writing, cross-domain synthesis and more. I wanted to see if it could actually do the work that professionals, creators and power users care about.

Here’s what happened when I tested GPT‑5.2 across planning, coding, budgeting, image understanding and deep critical thinking.

1. Complex reasoning & planning

Prompt: Plan a 3-week trip

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