What is an LLM? An LLM (large language model) is an artificial intelligence model that can understand human language. A classic example of an LLM is ChatGPT, which has become one of the most widely recognized artificial intelligence models in the past five years. ChatGPT, like other LLMs, can analyze user input, and respond as if it were human. In the past decade, AI and LLMs have become more widely available. Because of this, a question can be explored: How do these LLMs, like ChatGPT, benefit the lives of Americans?
LLMs can be trained on immense amounts of data, with the latest version of ChatGPT (ChatGPT-4) being trained on 1.8 trillion parameters. Because of this, LLMs have the answer to nearly any question that arises. Wasting minutes upon minutes searching through Google to find an answer to a question is becoming a thing of the past, as questions passed through LLMs output an instant response to the user. This presents the first benefit that large language models have – they increase productivity. Because users can get instant and precise answers from these models, they do not have to waste time searching through outdated responses outputted by regular search engines, like Google Chrome, increasing productivity. Also, LLMs can do things like summarize articles, which takes time. LLMs can summarize these articles rapidly, which saves users from spending hours reading. In all, LLMs can save users time and increase their daily productivity.
Another implication of LLMs is in education. Although LLMs can be used for cheating, they can also be used for good in the world of education. Because LLMs can understand human language and are trained on many parameters, they can understand and teach you material in the courses you are taking. For example, if a student has a test on ancient history, that student can ask the LLM to quiz them on 600 – 800 BC to study for said exam. Another huge example of an LLM in education is Grammarly’s AI Writing Assistant. This AI can evaluate user writing, and check for correct grammar, as well as provide suggestions to make the user’s writing more engaging. LLMs can improve the overall student experience by teaching and helping students with the material.
A final benefit of LLMs that will be explored is that LLMs can spark creative ideas for users based on prompts that a user gives the model. A good example of one of these idea generators is the Canvas Free Online AI Image Generator. A user types a prompt into an input box, and the LLM understands the words and converts these words into images. These images can be used as references to make pieces of art. Also, these LLM image generators can inspire writers and other creative media personnel to brainstorm and create media.
In all, large language models have numerous implications in everyday life which are highly beneficial. Specifically, these LLMs increase productivity for both students and those in the workforce, allow students to study and improve their educational experience, and finally allow for brainstorming and the creation of unique media. As AI and LLMs are further developed, more and more fields will be infiltrated and benefitted by said algorithms. In conclusion, LLMs are here to stay and are waiting to be used, so take advantage of the wonderful benefits they provide!