From Delulu to Solulu: Keeping Sanity with Deep Learning while Embracing Linear Algebra, CNNs, and Neural Networks!

The Journey
4 min readOct 20, 2023
Graphics Credits: News9Live

Well…Well…Well! I am officially in delulu state. & maybe its the only fu**ing solulu. Getting older is such a lifestyle change. I am more anxious for stupid things & complex things i can’t even think about it. Out of reach out of sight kinda.

A few simple habits and discipline are keeping my boat steady. One of the most precious abilities of adult life is the capacity to learn and understand. Using it to our benefit is the cherry on top.

Let’s get Rollin’!

The Power of Linear Algebra

Matrix Factorization in Recommender Systems

Linear algebra techniques like Singular Value Decomposition (SVD) play a pivotal role in recommender systems. SVD factorizes a user-item interaction matrix, revealing latent factors that capture user preferences and item characteristics. This mathematical approach enables personalized recommendations on platforms like Netflix and Amazon.

Eigenvalues and Eigenvectors in Principal Component Analysis (PCA)

Principal Component Analysis (PCA) is a dimensionality reduction technique that relies on the eigenvalues and eigenvectors of the data covariance matrix. It uncovers the most informative directions in the data, allowing for compact representations and noise reduction. PCA finds applications in image compression, facial recognition, and more.

Mathematics in Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs)

Convolutional Operations as Mathematical Filters

In computer vision, Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) leverage mathematical filters (kernels) to perform convolution operations on input data. These filters apply linear transformations that extract features like edges, textures, and patterns, ultimately enabling tasks like image classification and object detection.

Pooling Layers and Subsampling

Max-pooling and average-pooling layers in CNNs are based on mathematical concepts of subsampling. These operations reduce the spatial dimensions of feature maps while retaining essential information. Pooling enhances computational efficiency and makes networks more translation-invariant.

Mathematics and Recurrent Neural Networks (RNNs)

Backpropagation Through Time (BPTT)

Backpropagation Through Time (BPTT) in Recurrent Neural Networks (RNNs) draws directly from calculus. BPTT computes gradients across time steps by unrolling the network, making it possible to train RNNs on sequential data. This mathematical framework is vital for tasks like natural language processing and time series analysis.

Conclusion

The intricate interplay between mathematics and deep learning is undeniable. Mathematics provides the rigorous foundation on which deep learning models are built, trained, and applied to real-world problems. It’s not just about understanding equations; it’s about unlocking the true potential of artificial intelligence and machine learning.

As deep learning continues to advance, a deeper appreciation of mathematics will empower researchers, engineers, and data scientists to push the boundaries of what’s possible, from solving grand challenges to creating innovative applications that reshape industries and improve lives. Mathematics is not just the language of deep learning; it’s the key to its transformative power.

Simple Example:

Let’s implement a simple linear regression model using Python and NumPy, demonstrating how linear algebra forms the basis of many machine learning algorithms.

import numpy as np
import matplotlib.pyplot as plt

# Generate synthetic data
np.random.seed(0)
X = 2 * np.random.rand(100, 1)
y = 4 + 3 * X + np.random.randn(100, 1)

# Linear regression using the Normal Equation
X_b = np.c_[np.ones((100, 1)), X] # Add a bias term (intercept) to X
theta_best = np.linalg.inv(X_b.T.dot(X_b)).dot(X_b.T).dot(y)

# Create predictions
X_new = np.array([[0], [2]])
X_new_b = np.c_[np.ones((2, 1)), X_new]
y_predict = X_new_b.dot(theta_best)

# Plot the data and regression line
plt.scatter(X, y)
plt.plot(X_new, y_predict, "r-", linewidth=2, label="Predictions")
plt.xlabel("X")
plt.ylabel("y")
plt.legend(loc="upper left")
plt.title("Linear Regression with the Normal Equation")
plt.show()

# Print the calculated coefficients (intercept and slope)
print("Intercept (theta0):", theta_best[0][0])
print("Slope (theta1):", theta_best[1][0])

1. We generate synthetic data points (X, y) to simulate a linear relationship between the features (X) and the target variable (y).

2. Using linear algebra, we apply the Normal Equation to calculate the optimal coefficients (intercept and slope) for a linear regression model.

3. We make predictions on new data points (X_new) using the calculated coefficients.

4. Finally, we visualize the data points, the regression line, and display the coefficients.

This example highlights the role of linear algebra in solving linear regression, a fundamental machine learning problem. Linear algebra allows us to express and solve such problems efficiently, making it a crucial mathematical foundation for deep learning and machine learning algorithms.

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The Journey

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