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Large Language Models (LLMs) Fundamentals
Rating: 4.2 out of 5(34 ratings)
530 students

Large Language Models (LLMs) Fundamentals

Understand how LLMs like ChatGPT, Bard, and Claude work, including training, architecture, use cases, and more.
Last updated 4/2025
English

What you'll learn

  • Explain how Large Language Models (LLMs) like GPT, PaLM, and Claude function under the hood.
  • Distinguish between open-source and proprietary LLMs and their tradeoffs.
  • Identify real-world use cases for LLMs across industries like education, healthcare, and business.
  • Describe model training processes, fine-tuning techniques, and data requirements.
  • Compare LLM performance based on parameters, training data, and alignment strategies.
  • Understand prompt engineering basics to interact effectively with LLMs.

Course content

6 sections27 lectures2h 22m total length
  • What Are Large Language Models?4:21
  • History and Evolution of LLMs Part 15:07
  • History and Evolution of LLMs Part 23:48

    Explore the evolution of large language models from Bert and GPT to Palm, Claude, and Gemini, highlighting scaling, multimodality, memory, and tool integration.

  • Key Differences Between LLMs and Traditional Models5:01
  • Popular LLMs: GPT, PaLM, Claude, LLaMA, Gemini Part 16:04
  • Popular LLMs: GPT, PaLM, Claude, LLaMA, Gemini Part 25:13
  • Introduction to Large Language Models (LLMs)
  • Resource: Large Language Model Cheat Sheet0:31
  • Resource: Glossary of LLM Terminology0:22

Requirements

  • No prior experience with machine learning or programming is required. Just curiosity about how AI works and a willingness to learn!

Description

Large Language Models (LLMs) are reshaping how we communicate, create, and work. From ChatGPT and Google Bard to Claude, Mistral, and LLaMA, these powerful AI models are now deeply embedded in everything from customer service and software development to education and creative industries. But how do they actually work and how can you use them effectively?

This beginner-friendly course is your comprehensive introduction to the world of LLMs. It’s designed for anyone curious about artificial intelligence, whether you're a student, professional, researcher, or product builder. No prior coding or machine learning experience is required just a willingness to learn.

You’ll explore how these models are built, what they can (and can’t) do, and how to get the most out of them. We’ll cover the basics of model architecture, training data, tokenization, and the rise of open-source alternatives. Plus, you’ll get hands-on with prompt engineering—the art of communicating with AI clearly and effectively.

Key Takeaways:


  • Understand how Large Language Models like GPT, Claude, and LLaMA are trained and function

  • Explore the differences between proprietary and open-source models (e.g., OpenAI vs. Meta)

  • Learn foundational concepts like tokens, parameters, and fine-tuning

  • Discover real-world applications in writing, coding, search, research, and more

  • Master the basics of prompt engineering and AI interaction

  • Gain insight into the future of LLMs and ethical considerations around their use


By the end of this course, you’ll have a strong grasp of how large language models operate, where they’re used in the real world, and how you can leverage them effectively—whether you're building the next big app or simply using AI to work smarter.

Who this course is for:

  • This course is perfect for beginners, students, professionals, product managers, educators, and anyone interested in understanding the fundamentals of how LLMs like ChatGPT, Bard, or Claude work behind the scenes.