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Limitations of Large Language Models in Formal Reasoning

LLMs don’t do formal reasoning - and that is a HUGE problem 🔗

Important new study from Apple

Recent findings from a team of AI researchers at Apple reveal significant limitations in large language models (LLMs), particularly their lack of formal reasoning capabilities. Through a study, the researchers demonstrated that LLMs rely on complex pattern matching rather than true reasoning, leading to inconsistencies in their outputs, especially when minor changes are made to input. This issue is not new; similar results were observed in previous studies. LLM performance tends to decline as problem complexity increases, and they struggle with tasks requiring abstract reasoning, such as arithmetic and chess. The authors argue that traditional neural networks may not be sufficient for reliable reasoning, suggesting that integrating symbolic manipulation with neural networks is essential for advancing AI.

What did the Apple researchers find regarding LLMs?

The researchers found that LLMs do not exhibit formal reasoning abilities and instead rely on sophisticated pattern matching, which can lead to significant output variations based on minor changes to input.

How do LLMs perform on complex problems?

LLMs generally perform adequately on smaller problems but their performance declines significantly as the complexity of the problems increases.

What is suggested as a necessary condition for advancing AI?

The integration of symbolic manipulation with neural networks is suggested as a necessary condition to enhance the reasoning capabilities of AI systems.

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