Transformers and Large Language Models

The field of artificial intelligence (AI) is advancing rapidly, and at its core are transformative models that have redefined natural language processing: trans- formers and large language models (LLMs). This book, Transformers and Large Language Models, is written to help learners build a clear, practical understand- ing of the concepts, architectures, and techniques that drive these powerful systems.

My journey into this field began over two decades ago with a degree in Applied Mathematics. I started my career as a statistical data analyst, even- tually moving into data mining and, later, data science. Along the way, I witnessed firsthand how crucial mathematical and computational foundations are—not only for understanding how these models work, but for applying them effectively to real-world problems.