How to apply chaos parameters on Midjourney

intermediate 8 min read Updated 2026-03-18
Quick Answer

The chaos parameter in Midjourney controls how varied your generated images will be, with values from 0-100. Add --chaos [value] to your prompt to increase randomness and variation in results.

Prerequisites

  • Active Midjourney subscription
  • Basic understanding of Midjourney prompts
  • Discord account connected to Midjourney
  • Knowledge of parameter syntax

Step-by-Step Instructions

1

Open Discord and Navigate to Midjourney

Launch Discord and navigate to your Midjourney server or a server where the Midjourney bot is present. Select a general channel or newbies channel where you can send prompts.
Use dedicated channels to avoid cluttering general conversations
2

Start with Your Base Prompt

Type your base prompt describing the image you want to create. For example: /imagine a mystical forest with glowing mushrooms

Make sure your prompt is descriptive but not overly complex before adding chaos parameters.
Keep your base prompt clear and focused for better chaos control
3

Add the Chaos Parameter

At the end of your prompt, add the chaos parameter using this syntax: --chaos [number]

Example: /imagine a mystical forest with glowing mushrooms --chaos 50

The value can range from 0 to 100, where 0 produces consistent results and 100 creates maximum variation.
Start with values between 20-40 for moderate variation before experimenting with extremes
4

Choose Your Chaos Value

Select an appropriate chaos value based on your needs:
  • 0-25: Subtle variations, consistent style
  • 25-50: Moderate diversity in composition
  • 50-75: High variation in elements and style
  • 75-100: Maximum chaos, unpredictable results
Higher chaos values work well for brainstorming and creative exploration
5

Combine with Other Parameters

You can combine chaos with other parameters for more control:
--chaos 40 --ar 16:9 --stylize 250

Common combinations include:
  • --chaos with --ar (aspect ratio)
  • --chaos with --stylize (artistic interpretation)
  • --chaos with --seed (reproducibility)
Parameter order doesn't matter, but keep them organized for readability
6

Execute and Generate Images

Press Enter to send your prompt with the chaos parameter. Midjourney will generate four image variations with the specified chaos level applied.

Wait for the generation process to complete, which typically takes 30-60 seconds.
7

Compare and Iterate

Review the generated images to see how chaos affected the results. Use the U1, U2, U3, U4 buttons to upscale preferred variations or V1, V2, V3, V4 to create new variations.

Adjust the chaos value in subsequent prompts based on the results.
Keep notes of effective chaos values for different types of prompts
8

Fine-tune for Optimal Results

Experiment with different chaos values using the same base prompt to find your preferred level of variation. Create a series like:
  • --chaos 10
  • --chaos 30
  • --chaos 60
  • --chaos 90
This helps you understand how chaos affects your specific prompt style.
Save successful prompt + chaos combinations for future reference

Common Issues & Troubleshooting

Chaos parameter not working or being ignored

Ensure you're using the correct syntax --chaos [number] with double dashes and a space before the number. Check that the value is between 0-100.

Results are too random or unrecognizable at high chaos values

Lower the chaos value to 20-40 range and use more specific, detailed prompts to maintain some consistency while still getting variation.

No visible difference between chaos values

Try more extreme differences (compare --chaos 0 vs --chaos 80) or use simpler prompts where variation is more apparent.

Chaos conflicts with other parameters

Ensure proper spacing between parameters and avoid conflicting commands. Use --seed with low chaos values if you need reproducible but slightly varied results.

Prices mentioned in this guide are pulled from current plan data and may change. Always verify on the official Midjourney website before purchasing.