What are ChatGPT’s limits?

While ChatGPT dazzled in 2023, it's not flawless. Despite its impressive capabilities in the realm of large language models (LLMs), it falls short of perfection. OpenAI's CEO acknowledges its limitations, emphasizing the need for improvements in robustness and truthfulness. As we seek to incorporate ChatGPT into our routines, what hurdles can we anticipate?

Prompts have constraints

ChatGPT limits inputs to 2,048 characters (around 500 words); ChatGPT-4 premium extends this to 4,096 characters. However, the tool may not strictly adhere to specified character limits, yielding variable output lengths.

Usage is bounded

Basic plan users are restricted to 30 prompts per hour; ChatGPT Plus users have a higher, fluctuating limit. Each conversation is capped at 3,000 words. Exceeding these limits prompts an error message, possibly due to processing complexities.

Responses may remain incomplete

Occasionally, ChatGPT may cease processing before completing long texts or coding tasks. Typing 'continue' prompts it to resume, though ideally, such interruptions wouldn't be necessary.

Inherent biases exist

AI tools can exhibit various biases stemming from factors like sample bias and lack of ethical reasoning. Language models may generate responses with sexist, racist, or homophobic content due to inadequacies in understanding societal issues. They struggle with assessing conflicting information and determining accuracy or fairness.

Accuracy isn't assured

Despite expectations, AI may err in factual accuracy, struggle with discerning humor or sarcasm, and exhibit flaws in spelling, punctuation, grammar, and mathematical responses.

Coping with limitations

Despite its flaws, ChatGPT remains a potent tool. Users must rigorously verify content for errors, inaccuracies, and bias, supplementing it with current sources and undergoing extensive editing. Embracing these challenges fosters familiarity with generative AI, though users should remember its imperfections despite its utility.