Project Title
llm.c — Training Large Language Models in Pure C/CUDA
Overview
llm.c is an open-source project that enables the training of large language models (LLMs) using simple, pure C/CUDA without the need for large dependencies like PyTorch or cPython. The project aims to reproduce models from the GPT-2 and GPT-3 series, providing a lightweight and efficient alternative for LLM training. It offers both GPU and CPU implementations, making it accessible even for those without access to high-end hardware.
Key Features
- Pure C/CUDA implementation for LLM training
- Reproduction of GPT-2 and GPT-3 models
- Parallel PyTorch reference implementation for comparison
- Simple, clean codebase with ~1,000 lines for CPU fp32 implementation
Use Cases
- Researchers and developers looking for a lightweight LLM training framework
- Those needing to train LLMs without large dependencies or on limited hardware
- Educational purposes for understanding LLM training in a simple, pure C/CUDA environment
Advantages
- No need for large dependencies like PyTorch or cPython
- Faster performance compared to PyTorch Nightly (by about 7%)
- Provides both GPU and CPU implementations for flexibility
- Maintains a clean, simple codebase for ease of understanding and modification
Limitations / Considerations
- Currently focused on pretraining, may not support all features of more complex LLMs
- Performance may vary depending on the specific use case and hardware configuration
- Requires a basic understanding of C/CUDA for effective use and customization
Similar / Related Projects
- nanoGPT: An earlier project by the same author, which llm.c builds upon.
- GPT-2: The original GPT-2 model that llm.c aims to reproduce.
- GPT-3: The GPT-3 model, part of the series that llm.c seeks to emulate.
Basic Information
- GitHub: https://github.com/karpathy/llm.c
- Stars: 27,537
- License: Unknown
- Last Commit: 2025-09-05
📊 Project Information
- Project Name: llm.c
- GitHub URL: https://github.com/karpathy/llm.c
- Programming Language: Cuda
- ⭐ Stars: 27,537
- 🍴 Forks: 3,173
- 📅 Created: 2024-04-08
- 🔄 Last Updated: 2025-09-05
🏷️ Project Topics
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This article is automatically generated by AI based on GitHub project information and README content analysis