Training set

See also: Machine learning terms

Introduction

Machine learning relies on access to large amounts of data in order to develop models that accurately predict outcomes. This set, known as the training set, helps train the model so it can recognize patterns and make predictions based on newly added information.

Examples in a dataset are divided into 3 groups: training set, validation set and test set. Training set is used to train the model.

What is a Training Set?

A training set is a collection of data used to train a machine learning model. This set typically contains examples of inputs and outputs that the model uses to learn how to make accurate predictions. Along with validation set and test set, this sets forms one of three primary data sources used in machine learning.

How is a Training Set Created?

Constructing a training set involves selecting data that accurately reflects the problem that will be solved by the machine learning model. This can involve collecting information from various sources, such as existing databases, sensors or other devices, and user-generated information.

Once the data has been collected, preprocessing it is essential for use by a machine learning model. This could involve tasks such as cleaning the data, eliminating outliers and normalizing it so that it falls within an established range.

How is a Training Set Used?

Once the training set has been generated and preprocessed, it is used to train a machine learning model. During this step, the model is shown examples from the training set and taught how to make accurate predictions by tweaking its internal parameters accordingly.

The training process continues until the model can accurately predict outcomes from its training set. At this point, it can be evaluated against a validation set to confirm it is not overfitting the data.

Once a model has been trained and validated, it can be used to make predictions on new data. To do this, usually using a separate test set from both training and validation sets.

Why is a Training Set Important?

The training set is essential in machine learning, as it gives the model the opportunity to learn from examples and make accurate predictions on new data. Without this foundation, any predictions made would have no basis, leading to significantly reduced accuracy.

Machine learning practitioners can ensure their models are equipped with a large and diverse training set, helping to guarantee accurate predictions across various datasets.

Explain Like I'm 5 (ELI5)

When learning something new, such as how to count to ten or tie your shoes, someone has to demonstrate the process first. They might provide examples or describe the steps in detail. This serves as the training set for a machine learning model; it requires plenty of examples in order for it to make accurate predictions on new data. Once it has learned from these examples, just like when learning how to count to 20 after mastering counting up from ten, you are now capable of making accurate predictions based on new information.