OpenAI API Token Limits: How to Work with Maximum Token Length and Counting Tokens

OpenAI provides an API that offers various language models for different tasks, including natural language processing, chatbots, and content generation. One important aspect to consider when working with the OpenAI API is the token limits imposed on the requests. In this article, we will explore the token length limitations and how to manage them effectively.

I. Introduction to OpenAI API

The OpenAI API provides access to different language models, such as GPT⑶ and Codex, which enable developers to build applications that generate human-like text based on the provided input. These language models can be used for a wide range of tasks, from drafting emails to writing code.

The Completion API is one of the main components of the OpenAI API, allowing developers to make requests and receive text completions based on the input prompt.

II. Token Length Limitation

In order to work effectively with the OpenAI API, it is crucial to understand the maximum token length and how to count the tokens in a given text string.

A. Counting Tokens using the tiktoken library

The OpenAI Cookbook provides a guide on how to count the tokens in a given text string using the tiktoken library. You can refer to their guide for sample code and implementation details.

B. Maximum Token Length for Different Language Models

Each language model has a maximum token length limit, which determines the maximum length of the input prompt you can provide. For example, the model-davinci-002 has a maximum length of 4096 tokens. It is important to ensure that your input prompt does not exceed this limit to avoid errors.

Example: If your prompt is 4100 tokens long and you are using the model-davinci-002, you would need to reduce the length to meet the maximum limit.

III. API Token Limitation

In addition to the token length limitation, there are also limits on the number of API calls and the number of tokens per API call.

A. Request Limitation and Token Count Limitation

When using the OpenAI API, you are limited by both the number of API calls you can make within a certain timeframe and the number of tokens you can use within a single API call. These limitations vary depending on your subscription plan and the specific language model you are using.

Example: Your subscription plan may allow you to make a maximum of 60 requests per minute, with a maximum token count of 4096 tokens.

B. Token Count Limitation per Request

Each request you make to the OpenAI API also has a specific token count limitation. For example, GPT⑶ allows a maximum of 4000 tokens per request, while the gpt⑷⑶2k-0613 model allows a maximum of 32768 tokens per request. It is important to ensure that your input prompt does not exceed these limits, or you may need to modify or split your text accordingly.

IV. Resolving Token Limitation Errors

If you encounter token limitation errors while using the OpenAI API, there are a few approaches you can take to resolve them.

A. Splitting Text or Reducing Request Length

If your input prompt exceeds the maximum token limit, you can try splitting your text into smaller chunks and making multiple API requests. This allows you to work within the token limitations while receiving the desired completions.

B. Considering the Use of Advanced Models

Alternatively, you can consider using more advanced models, such as gpt⑷⑶2k-0613, which allows a larger number of tokens per request. However, it is important to note that using advanced models may have cost implications and may require upgrading your subscription plan.

V. Conclusion

Understanding the token limits of the OpenAI API is crucial when working with the API. It is important to be aware of the maximum token length for each language model and to manage the token count effectively. By considering the limitations and making appropriate adjustments to your inputs, you can make the most of the OpenAI API in your applications.