Large language Models: A Calculator for Words

It’s the early 17th century, a mathematician and astronomer named Edmund Gunter faced an astronomical challenge like no other. Calculating the intricate movements of planets and predicting eclipses demanded more than just intuition — it called for the mastery of complex logarithmic and trigonometric equations. So, just as any savvy innovator would do, Gunther decided to build it from scratch! He created an analog calculating device that would eventually become what is known as a <a href="https://www.whipplemuseum.cam.ac.uk/explore-whipple-collections/calculating-devices/slide-rules#:~:text=The%20slide%20rule%27s%20origins%20can,logarithmic%20scales%20for%20physical%20instruments." rel="noopener ugc nofollow" target="_blank">slide rule</a>. A rectangular wooden block, measuring 30cm in length, the slide rule comprises of two components: the fixed frame and the sliding portion. The fixed frame holds the stationary logarithmic scales while the sliding portion houses the movable scale. To use a slide rule, you needed to understand the basic principles of logarithms and how to align the scales for multiplication, division, and other mathematical operations. You had to slide the movable portion to set the numbers in alignment, read the result, and account for decimal point placement. Yikes, that’s really complicated! <img alt="" src="https://miro.medium.com/v2/resize:fit:700/0*r7A7s9UNk7e4VU5I.jpg" style="height:327px; width:700px" /> A slide rule Approximately 300 years later, the first electronic desktop calculator, the “ANITA Mk VII,” was introduced by the Bell Punch Company in 1961. Over the next couple of decades, electronic calculators became more sophisticated with additional features. Jobs that previously required extensive manual calculations experienced a significant reduction in labor hours, allowing employees to focus on more analytical and creative aspects of their work. As a result, the modern electronic calculator not only reshaped job roles but also paved the way for increased problem-solving capabilities. <a href="https://medium.com/the-modern-scientist/large-language-models-a-calculator-for-words-7ab4099d0cc9">Website</a>