Reasoning vs Fast vs Creative

Models have different strengths. Know them.

Reasoning Models

Best for: Complex analysis, planning, nuanced decisions

Examples:

• Claude Opus
• GPT-4o
• o1/o1-mini

Characteristics:

• Slower responses
• More expensive
• Better at multi-step reasoning
• Fewer hallucinations on complex tasks
• Can hold more context in mind

Use when:

• Coordinating multiple agents
• Making important decisions
• Analyzing complex situations
• Planning multi-step workflows

Fast Models

Best for: Quick responses, simple tasks, high volume

Examples:

• Claude Haiku
• GPT-4o-mini
• Gemini Flash

Characteristics:

• Very fast (sub-second)
• Very cheap
• Good for straightforward tasks
• May struggle with nuance
• Higher error rate on complex tasks

Use when:

• Simple Q&A
• Data extraction
• Format conversion
• High-volume processing

Balanced Models

Best for: Most everyday tasks

Examples:

• Claude Sonnet
• GPT-4o

Characteristics:

• Good balance of speed/quality
• Moderate cost
• Handles most tasks well
• Your workhorse model

Use when:

• General agent work
• Writing and editing
• Code generation
• Research synthesis

Creative Models

Some models are tuned for creative output:

• Higher "temperature" settings
• More varied responses
• Good for brainstorming

Use when:

• Content generation
• Ideation sessions
• Marketing copy
• Storytelling

Quick Reference