Prompt learning/engineering: Learning to talk with AI

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  Quantumrun Foresight
• March 11, 2024

Insight summary

Prompt-based learning is transforming machine learning (ML), allowing large language models (LLMs) to adapt without extensive re-training through carefully crafted prompts. This innovation enhances customer service, automates tasks, and fosters career opportunities in prompt engineering. The long-term implications of this technology could include governments improving public services and communication, and businesses shifting toward automated strategies.

Prompt learning/engineering context

Prompt-based learning has emerged as a game-changing strategy in machine learning (ML). Unlike traditional methods, it allows large language models (LLMs) like GPT-4 and BERT to adapt to various tasks without extensive re-training. This method is achieved through carefully crafted prompts, essential in transferring domain knowledge to the model. The quality of the prompt significantly influences the model's output, making prompt engineering a critical skill. McKinsey's 2023 survey on AI reveals that organizations are adjusting their hiring strategies for generative AI goals, with a notable increase in hiring prompt engineers (7% of AI-adopting respondents).

The primary advantage of prompt-based learning lies in its ability to assist businesses that lack access to large quantities of labeled data or operate in domains with limited data availability. However, the challenge lies in devising effective prompts that enable a single model to excel in multiple tasks. Crafting these prompts requires a deep understanding of structure and syntax and iterative refinement.

In the context of OpenAI’s ChatGPT, prompt-based learning is instrumental in generating accurate and contextually relevant responses. By providing carefully constructed prompts and refining the model based on human evaluation, ChatGPT can cater to a wide range of queries, from simple to highly technical. This approach reduces the need for manual review and editing, saving valuable time and effort in achieving desired outcomes.

Disruptive impact

As prompt engineering continues to evolve, individuals will find themselves interacting with AI-powered systems that provide more contextually relevant responses. This development could improve customer service, personalized content, and efficient information retrieval. As individuals increasingly rely on AI-driven interactions, they may need to become more discerning in crafting prompts to achieve desired outcomes, enhancing their digital communication skills.

For companies, adopting prompt-based learning could lead to greater efficiency in various aspects of business operations. AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants will become more adept at understanding customer queries, streamlining customer support and engagement. Additionally, prompt engineering can be leveraged in software development, automating coding tasks and reducing manual effort. Companies may need to invest in training prompt engineers to harness the full potential of this technology, and they may also need to adapt their strategies to the evolving capabilities of generative AI systems.

On the governmental front, the long-term impact of prompt-based learning could manifest in improved public services, particularly in healthcare and cybersecurity. Government agencies may use AI systems to process vast data and provide more accurate insights and recommendations. Moreover, as AI evolves through prompt-based learning, governments may need to invest in AI education and research to stay at the forefront of this technology. 

Implications of prompt learning/engineering

Wider implications of prompt learning/engineering may include: 

• The demand for prompt engineers rising, creating new career prospects in the field and fostering expertise in crafting effective prompts for AI systems.
• Prompt-based learning enabling healthcare systems to process medical data more effectively, leading to better treatment recommendations and healthcare outcomes.
• Companies shifting toward data-driven strategies, optimizing product development, marketing, and customer engagement through prompt engineering, potentially disrupting traditional business models.
• Governments using AI-driven systems, created with prompt engineering, for more responsive and personalized communication with citizens, potentially leading to greater political participation.
• Organizations and governments employing prompt engineering to bolster cybersecurity measures, helping to protect sensitive data and critical infrastructure.
• Prompt engineering helping automate data analysis and reporting, improving the accuracy and timeliness of financial insights for businesses and investors.

Questions to consider

• How can you leverage prompt engineering to enhance your interactions with AI systems in daily life?
• What potential career opportunities might arise in prompt engineering, and how can you prepare for them?