Jobescape
AI glossary

GPT

GPT stands for Generative Pre-trained Transformer - a family of large language models that generate human-like text and power tools such as ChatGPT.

Start Free QuizBrowse courses

In this guide

  1. 1What GPT means
  2. 2Why GPT matters

What GPT means

The name GPT describes how the model works. "Generative" means it creates new text; "pre-trained" means it learned from a huge body of text in advance; and "transformer" is the neural network design it is built on.

When you use ChatGPT to draft an email, a GPT model is generating that email word by word, drawing on its pre-training. The model is the GPT; ChatGPT is the chat app built around it.

Why GPT matters

GPT models are among the most widely used AI models, and many tools you will build with are powered by them. Knowing what the name means removes a common point of confusion.

GPT models power ChatGPT and many other AI tools
Understanding the name clarifies how these models work
GPT is often used loosely to mean any chatbot - now you know the difference
Many no-code platforms let you build on GPT models

Frequently asked questions

Not quite. GPT is the underlying AI model. ChatGPT is the popular app built on top of a GPT model that gives you an easy way to chat with it.

More AI terms

Supervised LearningA machine learning method where a model learns from examples that are already labeled with the correct answer.Unsupervised LearningA machine learning method where a model finds patterns in data that has no labels or correct answers.Reinforcement LearningA machine learning method where a model learns by trial and error, guided by rewards for good outcomes.APIA defined way for two software systems to talk to each other and share data or features.Workflow AutomationSetting up a series of tasks to run automatically by connecting your apps and tools together.Retrieval-Augmented GenerationA technique that lets an AI look up relevant information first, then use it to give a more accurate answer.

Ready to build the AI skills your future depends on?

Take the free 5-minute quiz and get a personalized learning plan built around your goals, schedule, and experience.

Start Free QuizBrowse courses