Core Distinctions:
Feature Large Language Model (LLM) Retrieval-Augmented Generation
(RAG)
Primary Generates human-like text Enhances an LLM's response by
Function based on patterns in its training retrieving relevant information from an
data. external knowledge source.
Knowledge Internal, static knowledge from External, dynamic knowledge from
Source its training data (with a connected databases, documents, or
knowledge cut-off date). the internet.
Process Takes a prompt and directly Takes a prompt, retrieves relevant
generates a response. information, combines it with the prompt,
and then has an LLM generate a
response.
Key Fluency, creativity, and the Improved accuracy, reduced
Advantage ability to understand and hallucinations, and the ability to provide
generate nuanced language. responses based on current and specific
information.
Limitation Can "hallucinate" or provide Dependent on the quality and
outdated information due to its accessibility of the external knowledge
static knowledge base. source.
=> RAG is like the upgraded version of LLM. Instead of querying answers directly from the
trained data sources, now the AI is going to try to find all related information, extract data
from it, and then provide you with the correct answers.
- RAG should be applied in functions which require high accuracy and real-time information.