Glossary · AI basics
noun/mod·əl/
A specific version of an AI system. Claude comes in a family of models: larger ones for harder reasoning and smaller, faster ones for simple, high-volume tasks.
In practice
Claude is not a single model but a family. Larger models are better at complex reasoning, long documents and difficult writing. Smaller models are faster and cheaper, which suits simple, high-volume tasks. In the Claude apps the choice is usually straightforward. In custom tools built on the API, choosing the right model for each task is a key part of keeping costs sensible.
For everyday work in the Claude apps, the default model is usually right. For custom tools, match the model to the task: larger models for complex reasoning, smaller ones for simple, high-volume work. Anthropic's documentation lists the current models.
From AI curious to AI capable
Start with an audit. You will know exactly where AI fits, what to do first and what it should give back. Your report looks something like this.
Prepared for
your business
What Claude can really do
Contents
Every opportunity mapped, scored and turned into a costed Claude roadmap.