Computing Three-Point Functions for Short Operators

I will explain how to compute three-point structure constants for "short" primary operators of N=4 super Yang-Mills theory that are dual to point-like strings in AdS. In a semiclassical analysis, their interaction is mapped to a flat-space IIB string theory calculation to leading order at large 't Hooft coupling. Once the correct vertex operators are identified, the interaction can be computed straightforwardly. This way, the three-point functions for any combination of operators dual to string states at the massless and first massive level have been obtained. The method is validated by a match with the known supergravity result for three chiral primary operators (massless states). For three states at the first massive level, the result yields the structure constant for three members of the Konishi multiplet