Computational Bottlenecks of Training Small-scale Large Language Models
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Abstract (arXiv)
While large language models (LLMs) dominate the AI landscape, Small-scale large Language Models (SLMs) are gaining attention due to cost and efficiency demands from consumers. However, there is limited research on the training behavior and computational requirements of SLMs. In this study, we explore the computational bottlenecks of training SLMs (up to 2B parameters) by examining the effects of various hyperparameters and configurations, including GPU type, batch size, model size, communication protocol, attention type, and the number of GPUs. We assess these factors on popular cloud services using metrics such as loss per dollar and tokens per second. Our findings aim to support the broader adoption and optimization of language model training for low-resource AI research institutes.
Key facts. Cited by 2 papers in the map (data through 14 Oct 2026). Builds on 25 of its 26 references that are in the map. First posted on arXiv 25 Oct 2024.
Builds on
25 of 26 references.
References · 25
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13 more
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Citing papers per year: 2024: 1; 2025: 1.
2 papers.