Build a Custom Chatbot

This class teaches the fundamentals of building custom AI chatbots. We'll start with core large language model (LLM) concepts including how models process information (context windows, tokens), differences between model types (reasoning vs. non-reasoning, open vs. closed source), and key constraints that shape chatbot design. From there, we'll cover system prompt design (how to shape behavior and personality) and extending capabilities through tools and knowledge retrieval. Using Duke's AI infrastructure, attendees will gain hands-on experience building chatbots tailored to specific domains or tasks. Come prepared with ideas for chatbots that could support your own workflows!