Math for Computer Science [Math Mondays]

With a focus on Machine Learning

Apr 26, 2022

Groovy Monday my lovelies,

A lot of you ask me about what Math Topics are very important for Machine Learning. Especially, after you saw how much money the Data/ML engineers at top companies make. Luckily for you, I have already covered this topic in-depth on my YouTube channel. So just give it a watch. The video will be linked below.

What about those of you not into Machine Learning? Watch the video regardless. The foundations it gives you will be good. However, the focus for you will be slightly different. Here is my recommendation, by topics-

Calculus- You don’t need to do multi-variate calculus to be a good software developer. It has a lot of utility in Machine Learning, but other than that it might take y’all a while. However, spend a lot of time on the precalc portion. Understand functions, transformation, and algebra very very well.
Probs and Stats- This is the one that changes the most. You don’t need to get into the details of probability distributions etc. You will probably never need to do that kind of analysis. However, do some Bayesian Statistics just to learn how to think in a Bayesian Context. This is a super useful skill, and unfortunately, one that is easy to mess up. Probabilistic thinking is another important skill. I have already covered it this Math Monday, so check this out.
Linear Algebra- You don’t need to worry about the Computational Side as much, since traditional software isn’t as into that. However, getting the ideas behind the concepts doesn’t change. I’ll do a more dedicated Math Monday soon, so keep your eyes out.
Optimization- This doesn’t change a lot. Learning to frame abstract situations in a quantifiable way is the crux of software development (just as with ML).

You will notice that I don’t mention Discrete Math here. That is because it can often get too esoteric. However, some ideas from Discrete Math will be very helpful.

Set Theory
Binary/Other Number Systems
Logic
Boolean Algebra
Mathematical Induction

Learn all these well. You don’t need to learn a lot, just the foundations. They will be enough to solve most problems and get your mind working in overdrive.

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Happy Prep. I’ll see you at your dream job.

Math is Funnn ,

Devansh <3

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