Large Language Models

What They Are

A large language model (LLM) is a text generator. It predicts the next word in a sentence based on your prompt and the patterns it learned during training. It doesn’t think, know, or feel anything. It doesn’t understand context unless you provide it.

What They’re Not

• Sentient
• Conscious
• Emotionally intelligent

My blunt take on LLMs

In June 2025, I sparked a lively Reddit/Discord debate (shown below) about what an LLM is and what it is not. With over 4 million impressions, 23,000 upvotes, and 3,700 comments, it became clear just how much confusion surrounds these increasingly popular tools. I offer straightforward, practical explanations to maximize your results, regardless of your goal.




Disclaimer: Most of my experience is with ChatGPT and is presented through that lens.