Find the main controls in the Sandbox interface and follow the steps to use them.
Main Interface
When you log in, you see the main chat interface. Three areas
- Sidebar (left). Your chat history, workspace access, settings
- Chat area (center). The chat thread
- Message box. Text input, attachments, integrations, and the model selector on the right
Sidebar
The sidebar has several sections
Chats
- Your chat history
- Click a chat to reopen it
- Hover over a chat title to see options (rename, archive, delete)
Workspace (request access by emailing the CUNY AI Lab team)
- Models — Create custom AI configurations
- Knowledge — Build document collections
- Tools — Browse available tools (if you have access)
Settings
- User settings (preferences, defaults)
- Admin panel (if you’re an administrator)
Starting a Chat
Click the New Chat button at the top of the sidebar (or press Ctrl/Cmd + Shift + O).
A new chat opens. You’ll see
- An empty chat area
- The input box at the bottom
- The current model name on the right inside the message box
Type a message and press Enter to send.
Switching Models
Click the model name on the right inside the message box.
Choose a model from the dropdown to switch while retaining the chat history.
Input Box Features
The input box has several buttons
Integrations (beside the plus button)
- Choose available tools, skills, and capabilities for this chat
- Options depend on your model and account permissions
➕ > Upload Files
- Attach images, PDFs, or documents to your message
- You can also drag files into the chat
↑ (Send button)
- Send your message
- Or press Enter on your keyboard
Workspace. Models
With Workspace access enabled, go to Workspace > Models in the sidebar.
You’ll see
- A list of models you’ve created
- Models shared with you
- A shared Create button beside the Workspace tabs
With Models selected, click Create to open the model editor.
Model Editor
The model editor has several sections
Basic Info
- Name your model
- Choose a base model
- Open Access to keep it private or share with selected users and groups
System Prompt
- Write instructions for the model
- Define its role and boundaries
Knowledge
- Attach knowledge bases (document collections)
Tools
- Choose available Workspace tools; configure Web Search and Code Interpreter under Capabilities and Default Features
Skills
- Attach reusable instructions (if available)
Workspace. Knowledge
With Workspace access enabled, go to Workspace > Knowledge in the sidebar.
You’ll see
- A list of knowledge bases you’ve created
- Knowledge bases shared with you
- A shared Create button beside the Workspace tabs
With Knowledge selected, click Create, enter a name and description, then choose Create Knowledge.
Knowledge Base Editor
When creating or editing a knowledge base
Basic Info
- Name it
- Describe its purpose
- Set visibility
Upload Files
- Drag and drop PDFs, Markdown, or plain text
- Multiple files at once
- Processing happens automatically
Connected Models
- Open a model in Workspace > Models
- Add or remove the collection in its Knowledge section
Settings
Open your profile menu in the sidebar and select Settings.
You’ll see several tabs
General
- Theme and language
- Personal system prompt and advanced model parameters
Account
- Profile picture
- Display name
Interface
- Message display and input preferences, including Enter to Send
Choose a default model from Set as default in the model selector when starting a new chat.
Message Actions
Use the action buttons beneath a message to Copy, Edit, or Regenerate, where available. Open its three-dot menu for additional actions such as Delete.
Chat Renaming
Hover over a chat in the sidebar and click the three dots that appear.
Options
- Rename — Give the chat a descriptive title
- Archive — Remove from active list (still accessible)
- Delete — Permanently remove
- Share — Generate a share link
Renaming helps you find chats later.
What’s Next?
Now that you’ve toured the interface, you can
- Start using the Sandbox. Getting Started
- Build your first custom model. Custom Models
- Learn about teaching strategies. Teaching Tips
Need Help?
The CUNY AI Lab maintains the Sandbox and provides support through workshops and office hours. Check the AI Lab website for schedules and contact information.