Large Language Model (LLM)

An AI system trained on massive text datasets to understand and generate human-like text.

DEFINITION

What is Large Language Model (LLM)?

A Large Language Model (LLM) is a type of artificial intelligence that has been trained on enormous amounts of text data—often billions of words from books, websites, and other sources. This training enables LLMs to understand context, generate coherent text, answer questions, and perform various language tasks. Examples include GPT-4 (powering ChatGPT), Claude, Gemini, and Llama. LLMs form the foundation of modern AI assistants and are the systems that brands need to optimize for when pursuing AI visibility.

IN PRACTICE

When we optimize for AI visibility, we're essentially helping LLMs better understand your brand so they can accurately recommend you to users.

WHY IT MATTERS

Understanding LLMs is essential for AI visibility because these are the systems that recommend (or don't recommend) your brand. LLMs synthesize information differently than search engines, requiring different optimization strategies.

EXAMPLES

GPT-4 is the LLM that powers ChatGPT

Claude is Anthropic's LLM known for helpfulness and safety

Gemini is Google's multimodal LLM

COMMON MISCONCEPTIONS

LLMs don't search the internet in real-time (though some have that capability added). They primarily draw from their training data and any retrieval systems connected to them.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How do LLMs decide what to recommend?

LLMs base recommendations on patterns learned during training. They consider factors like relevance, reputation signals, and how well content matches user queries.

Can you directly influence an LLM's training?

You can't directly modify LLM training, but you can optimize your digital presence so the information LLMs learn about your brand is accurate and favorable.