Glossary · 1 · Foundations: how AI works
Large language model (LLM)
Also known as: LLM, Language model
A large language model (LLM) is a generative AI model, usually a transformer, trained on very large amounts of text to predict the next token in a sequence. From this single skill emerge abilities such as answering questions, summarizing, translating, writing code and following instructions.
- Beginner
- Technical writers
- Technical marketers
- Technical project managers
- Developers
In one sentence
What a large language model is: a transformer trained on vast text to predict the next token — the engine behind ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini and Llama.
Example
Asked “Summarize this maintenance procedure in three steps,” an LLM generates the summary token by token, each token chosen as a likely continuation of the prompt and what it has written so far.
Why it matters on your learning path
- Technical writers: LLMs read your content as tokens. Consistent terminology and clear structure make their answers more accurate.
- Technical marketers: Most AI brands in station 2 sell access to LLMs; the differences lie in quality, price, openness and data terms.
- Technical project managers: LLMs are probabilistic: the same prompt can give different answers. Plan acceptance criteria and review accordingly.
- Developers: You’ll work with LLMs through an AI API, managing tokens, context and cost.
LLM vs. chatbot
The LLM is the model. A chatbot or assistant such as ChatGPT, Claude or Gemini is a product built around one or more models, adding a system prompt, memory, tools and safety layers.