Popular Now
Grand Theft Auto V (GTA V) is more than just a game about chaos and car chases — it’s a massive open-world experience packed with missions, money-making methods, and endless freedom. Whether you're playing Story Mode or GTA Online, knowing where to start can make all the difference.
This guide offers essential GTA V tips for beginners, helping you avoid costly mistakes and build your skills, income, and confidence across Los Santos.
Learn the Basics of Each Character
In Story Mode, you control three main characters: Michael, Franklin, and Trevor. Each has unique abilities and traits.
Tips for Character Use
-
Michael: Bullet-time in gunfights (great for precision shooting)
-
Franklin: Slows down time while driving (perfect for sharp turns)
-
Trevor: Deals extra damage and takes less (good for chaotic missions)
Use their abilities strategically in heists and missions for the best results.
Save Money and Upgrade Smartly
Don't waste cash early on. Instead, invest in useful upgrades and equipment as you progress.
Where to Spend
-
Weapon upgrades: Suppressors, scopes, and extended clips
-
Vehicle armor: Survive explosions and gunfire
-
Armor and snacks: Keep you alive in longer missions
Avoid buying expensive clothes or cars early — they don’t impact gameplay.
Take Advantage of Lester’s Missions
Lester’s assassination missions influence the stock market in Story Mode. These are the best money-making missions if played smart.
Tips for Big Payouts
-
Save these missions until after the final heist
-
Invest in related stocks before starting each mission
-
Wait a few days to sell at peak prices
You can earn over $2 billion if you time your investments correctly.
Use Cover and Take Your Time in Combat
GTA V is not a run-and-gun shooter. To survive gunfights, use cover systems effectively.
Combat Tips
-
Press Q (PC) / R1 (PS) / RB (Xbox) to take cover
-
Peek and shoot around corners instead of rushing
-
Aim for the head when possible — saves ammo and time
Play defensively and stay calm — enemies are deadly on higher difficulties.
Explore the Map and Unlock Fast Travel
The GTA V map is huge. Spend time exploring early to uncover locations and unlock travel points.
Must-Visit Places
-
Ammu-Nation stores: For weapon access
-
Los Santos Customs: For car upgrades
-
Safehouses: For saving progress and changing characters
Use taxis to skip long drives — it saves time and lets you focus on missions.
Complete Random Events and Side Missions
Story Mode includes dozens of Strangers and Freaks missions and random world events that reward cash, vehicles, and weapons.
Side Activity Tips
-
Watch for blue/red markers on the map
-
Help civilians or stop robbers for quick money
-
Meet quirky characters for fun and useful rewards
Completing these missions boosts character stats and game progress.
Make the Most of GTA Online Bonuses
In GTA Online, weekly events offer Double GTA$ and RP. This is the best time to grind.
Weekly Bonus Tips
-
Play featured missions for double rewards
-
Join Heists, Races, or Adversary Modes during event weeks
-
Check the Newswire for updates every Thursday
Don’t waste time on low-reward activities when bonuses are active.
Start With Contact Missions and Heists
When beginning GTA Online, stick to Contact Missions and build your way to Heists.
Online Mission Strategy
-
Run jobs for Lamar, Simeon, Gerald, and Martin
-
Unlock The Fleeca Job as your first Heist
-
Save money to buy a high-end apartment (required for hosting Heists)
Heists offer huge payouts — perfect for gearing up early.
Avoid Griefers and Use Passive Mode
Public sessions in GTA Online can be dangerous, especially for new players.
Tips for Staying Safe
-
Enable Passive Mode when traveling
-
Use Invite-only or Friends-only sessions for missions and setup
-
Store your money in the bank to protect it from theft
Being smart with your privacy settings keeps progress frustration-free.
Focus on One Business at a Time
Once you start building wealth in GTA Online, avoid spreading your resources too thin.
Best Business Order
-
Kosatka Submarine (for Cayo Perico Heist)
-
Vehicle Warehouse (export cars for profit)
-
Bunker or Motorcycle Club (passive income)
Build one business well before investing in more. Efficiency leads to steady GTA$ growth.
Conclusion: Play Smart, Build Steady
Whether you're in Story Mode or Online, GTA V rewards strategy, patience, and smart choices. By using character skills, saving money wisely, and focusing on profitable missions, you’ll avoid beginner pitfalls and make progress much faster.
Los Santos is full of chaos — but with the right tips, you’ll thrive in it.
