Why AI breaks down when your prompts get too complex
ChatGPT and other large language models (LLMs) are remarkably capable. They can solve problems, write essays, explain technical concepts, and summarise huge documents. But when it comes to handling multiple layered logical statements, the cracks start to show — even for GPT-4.
Through extensive testing and observation, we’ve found a recurring pattern: LLMs begin to struggle once you pass a certain threshold of logical load. It’s not about word count — it’s about how many conditional, comparative, or rule-based elements the model has to juggle at once.
While not a hard-coded rule, the following thresholds seem consistent in real-world performance:
The moment you cross these boundaries, ChatGPT begins to:
This isn’t a flaw — it’s a byproduct of how LLMs work. They’re not reasoning step-by-step. They’re predicting what text best follows the previous text, based on patterns seen in training.
Let’s say you’re using ChatGPT to:
In these cases, performance begins to degrade unless the logic is broken into smaller steps. The model might get the first few rules right, then start free-associating or skipping conditions entirely.
Split the logic into smaller, single-purpose prompts or stages. Instead of asking the model to apply 10 rules at once, ask it to apply 3, then pass the output into a second prompt.
Clearly label logical conditions and request structured output.
“There are 6 rules. You must consider all 6. Do not skip or summarise.”
If logic precision is mission-critical (e.g., legal or finance), use ChatGPT to summarise or extract, but rely on deterministic systems (like rules engines or traditional code) to apply the final logic.
ChatGPT isn’t broken — it’s just not a formal logic engine. Knowing its upper bounds on reasoning complexity can save you endless frustration. Smart prompting means respecting the limits of language prediction. When you’re building systems that rely on accuracy at scale, break your logic down or build in rule-based scaffolding.
Want help architecting logic-safe AI flows? AndMine can help engineer layered AI that works the way your business thinks.
