Natural Language Processing: Concepts, Techniques, Applications and Future Directions

Abstract

Natural Language Processing (NLP) is an interdisciplinary field that combines computer science, linguistics, and artificial intelligence to enable computers to process and understand human language. With the rapid growth of digital communication and data, NLP has become a vital technology in various fields such as education, business, healthcare, and social media analysis. This research paper examines the theoretical foundations, historical development, key techniques, and applications of NLP. It also discusses recent advancements in deep learning models such as transformers and large language models, which have significantly improved machine understanding of language. Furthermore, the paper explores the challenges and ethical considerations associated with NLP technologies. By analyzing current trends and future prospects, the study highlights the significance of NLP in shaping human–computer interaction and knowledge processing in the digital era