My Understanding of How Large Language Models Work

Lately, I've been trying to learn more about AI, particularly large language models (LLMs). My usual approach to learning a new subject is to read the classic books on the topic. However, since this version of generative and agentic AI is so new and evolving so rapidly, it's been difficult to find good, established books that covers it and explains it so a web developer like me could understand it.So I decided to try something different by learning AI with AI. That is, I asked Claude to explain how LLMs work over a series of back-and-forth conversations over a few days to build my understanding of the topic. This post is my attempt to explain what I've learned about how LLMs work. I'm a web developer, not an AI or machine learning researcher, and I'm writing this from the perspective of a student learning a new subject, not an expert teaching it. In fact, one of my motivations for writing this post is to clarify my own understanding of LLMs. If you notice any mistakes or inaccuracies,…

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