100 Page Language Models Book
FreeThis book guides you through the evolution of language models, starting from machine learning fundamentals.
FreeFree tier
About 100 Page Language Models Book
This book guides you through the evolution of language models, starting from machine learning fundamentals. Rather than presenting transformers right away, we build understanding step by step—from simple count-based methods through recurrent neural networks to modern architectures. Each concept is grounded in clear mathematical foundations and illustrated with working Python code. Includes chapters on prompt engineering and finetuning, with practical Jupyter notebooks and complete Python implementations with PyTorch on GitHub. The book follows a read-first, buy-later principle, with all chapters available on the website.
Key Features
Step-by-step learning from machine learning basics to transformers and LLMs
Complete Python implementations with PyTorch on GitHub
Practical Jupyter notebooks for each topic
Mathematical foundations with intuitive explanations
Prompt engineering and finetuning techniques for LLMs
Free $150 GPU credits on Lambda with purchase
Read-first, buy-later principle (all chapters available online)
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Clear progression from simple to modern architectures
- Practical code examples and notebooks for hands-on learning
- Free GPU credits incentivize experimentation
- Authored by recognized ML expert Andriy Burkov
- Read-first, buy-later model makes content accessible
Cons
- Assumes some mathematical background (e.g., linear algebra, probability)
- Physical copies require payment; digital content is free but optional to purchase
Best For
Learning language models for technical leaders and engineering managersHands-on education for software developers and data scientistsDeepening understanding for machine learning engineersSelf-study for anyone wanting to grasp LLM inner workings
FAQ
Is the book free?
Yes, the book follows a read-first, buy-later principle. All chapters are available on the website for free. You can optionally purchase a physical copy (hardcover, paperback, or dark edition) or an e-book at a price you set.
What do I get when I purchase the book?
When you purchase a physical or e-book copy, you can receive $150 in free GPU credits on Lambda by emailing your proof of purchase to author@thelmbook.com.
Who is the author?
Andriy Burkov, Ph.D. in Artificial Intelligence, author of 'The Hundred-Page Machine Learning Book' and 'Machine Learning Engineering.' He is a recognized expert in machine learning and NLP, with experience at Fujitsu, Gartner, and TalentNeuron.
What topics are covered?
The book covers machine learning basics, language modeling basics (count-based methods, n-grams), recurrent neural networks, transformers, and large language models including prompt engineering and finetuning.