How Large Language Models like ChatGPT Work
You're likely interacting with AI (Artificial Intelligence) more and more, perhaps using tools like ChatGPT for drafting emails, summarizing reports, or even brainstorming ideas. These Large Language Models (LLMs) have become remarkably capable, but how do they actually work? What's happening behind the screen when you type a prompt and receive a well informed response?
This post aims to provide a high-level, conceptual understanding of the core mechanics behind LLMs. It's designed for the tech-interested who want to grasp the fundamentals without needing a deep dive into complex mathematics or code. Think of it as looking under the hood to see the main components, not rebuilding the engine. We'll explore how these models process language, how they "learn," and what's actually happening during that near-instantaneous generation of text.