What is the primary goal of fine-tuning a large language model (LLM)?

Fine-tuning a large language model (LLM) primarily aims to adjust the pretrained model's parameters using a smaller, task-specific dataset. This process involves taking a model that has already been trained on a broad dataset and refining it to perform better on specific tasks or domains by training it further on relevant data. This enables the model to leverage general knowledge while adapting to the nuances and particularities of the new data, thereby improving its performance and relevance for specific applications.

The significance of fine-tuning lies in its ability to enhance the model's accuracy and effectiveness by focusing on the specific characteristics of the target task. By exposing the model to data that reflects the specific requirements of the intended application, fine-tuning helps to achieve better outcomes compared to using a model that is solely based on general training. This is particularly important in fields such as natural language processing, where language use can vary significantly across different domains or contexts.