September 19, 2023

OpenAI GPT-4 Roles | AI Basics

Blog / OpenAI GPT-4 Roles | AI Basics

OpenAI's GPT-4 is a transformative tool that drives conversation in an engaging and interactive manner. Its potency is three-fold, splitting its dynamics into three roles: the System, the User, and the Assistant. This trifold arrangement ensures smooth and efficient interaction, each role masterfully carrying out its own function. But what exactly are these roles and what purposes do they serve?

System: The conductor of the show

Think of the System as the vital core guiding the overall interaction between the user and the model. The system sets the tone and the agenda for the conversation. For instance, if the system message is scripted as "You are a helpful assistant", the model is conditioned to prioritise empathetic and helpful responses. But, if you set it to "Translate user's messages to Spanish" it will ignore your inputs and translate your messages to Spanish instead. Adjusting the system message allows you to promptly modify the behaviour of the model, setting it up for a range of tasks.

User: You or the participant

The User role represents you, the one interacting with the model. You can put forward queries, provide instructions, or engage in casual conversation—the choice is yours. Your input messages route through here, directing the journey of your interaction with the model.

Assistant: The model at your service

Tasked with generating responses, the Assistant represents the model. It processes your input message and conjures up an appropriate response, serving as your digital aide. It's behaviour will adapt based on user's needs and system message.

Teaching through interaction

Notably, you can convey a lengthier history of User-Assistant interactions, thereby guiding the model based on examples of preferred actions. Essentially, you're "teaching" the model, making it adept in responding the way you desire.

Understanding each role's unique contributions is the first step to mastering the potential of the GPT-4. By underscoring the distinctions between the System, the User, and the Assistant, you can traverse the road of AI technologies with grace, precision, and an edge of expertise. Mastery of these roles is a gateway to unlocking infinite possibilities with OpenAI's GPT-4, paving the way for enriched user experience and deep learning explorations.

Mateusz Drozd
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