[HN Gopher] Linear Algebra for Data Science
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       Linear Algebra for Data Science
        
       Author : Garcia98
       Score  : 53 points
       Date   : 2024-07-24 21:07 UTC (1 days ago)
        
 (HTM) web link (kyunghyuncho.me)
 (TXT) w3m dump (kyunghyuncho.me)
        
       | bdjsiqoocwk wrote:
       | I didn't go to university for CS. Instead I did physics. Because
       | of that, learning/remind myself of this stuff was relatively
       | easy, and so I did it.
       | 
       | And let me tell you, it didn't actually made me a better data
       | scientist/model builder, for the same reason that learning how to
       | implement some tree traversal didnt make me a better programmer.
        
         | quibono wrote:
         | I think I'd argue with both points actually. Though it also
         | depends on the nature of work that you do. I imagine good
         | intuition with linear algebra is crucial for novel work. If
         | you're implementing a model off an arxiv paper maybe not so
         | much.
        
           | fifilura wrote:
           | Also remember that you (GP) already acquired that intuition
           | in your youth. Most things you learn look trivial in
           | retrospect. It may be that you already had some use of that.
           | 
           | And if you had not learned those things you may have started
           | worrying what this magic thing you don't know so much about
           | is. That can also hinder performance.
           | 
           | (Latd edit since I wanted to add). Another reason it is good
           | to know stuff is to be able to dispel co-workers trying to
           | bullshit. They are everywhere and I don't think they are
           | trying to be mean, it is mostly insecurity. But particularly
           | in this field I think people will start throwing buzzwords
           | around to confuse and lead you away from what is simple and
           | important.
           | 
           | But GPs comment is fine as a thought provoker.
        
       | quibono wrote:
       | This seems to be a more hands-on linear algebra intro, starting
       | with matrices and building up from there. Note I've not actually
       | read the whole thing, just skimmed it.
       | 
       | Something similar worth looking at is:
       | https://ocw.mit.edu/courses/18-065-matrix-methods-in-data-an...
        
       | fifilura wrote:
       | If I were to teach linear algebra I would stick to the 3D
       | graphics approach. Maybe as far as including labs for
       | implementing a ray-tracer.
       | 
       | It is just the most fun, intuitive and eye opening application of
       | basic linear algebra.
       | 
       | Don't forget the fun!
       | 
       | Data science applications can come later.
        
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       (page generated 2024-07-25 23:13 UTC)