Machine Learning Basics for a Newbie

Machine learning is a vast and rapidly evolving field, and this article serves as a stepping stone for those new to the domain. Explore the fundamental concepts of machine learning, from understanding the differences between traditional programming and ML to delving into various types of machine learning algorithms.

- Meghraj Singh Beniwal

Machine learning (ML) is a transformative field of artificial intelligence (AI) that empowers computers to learn and improve from experience without being explicitly programmed. Unlike traditional programming, where specific instructions are given to perform a task, ML algorithms enable systems to automatically learn patterns and make intelligent decisions based on data.

The significance of machine learning spans a multitude of industries, transforming the way we approach problem solving and decision-making. Consider the following real-world examples.

Healthcare 

• Medical diagnosis: ML algorithms analyse patient data to assist in diagnosing diseases such as cancer and predicting patient outcomes.

• Drug discovery: ML accelerates the drug discovery process by identifying potential candidates for new medications.

Marketing 

Recommendation systems: ML algorithms power recommendation engines on platforms like Netflix and Amazon, providing personalised suggestions based on user preferences.

Customer segmentation: Businesses use ML to segment customers based on behaviour, enabling targeted marketing campaigns.

Technology

• Speech recognition: Virtual assistants like Siri and Google Assistant utilise ML for accurate speech recognition and natural language processing.