Top 10 Machine Learning Algorithms for

Beginners
Machine learning has emerged as a transformative technology in today's digital, data-
driven world. It has found applications in diverse fields, from personalised
recommendations to autonomous vehicles, business analytics, and medical diagnosis.
For beginners delving into this fascinating field, it's critical to comprehend the basics of
machine learning algorithms. This article provides an in-depth exploration of the top 10
machine learning algorithms that beginners should understand.

Understanding Machine Learning and Its Types

Machine Learning (ML) is a transformative technology that has become integral to many
21st-century life and business areas. In essence, it involves training computers to
recognise patterns in data and make decisions or predictions based on those patterns.
This is achieved using various algorithms with distinct methodologies and objectives.
Machine learning algorithms can broadly be divided into four categories - Supervised
Learning, Unsupervised Learning, Semi-supervised Learning, and Reinforcement
Learning.

1. Supervised Learning

Supervised Learning, the most prevalent form of machine learning, uses algorithms to
learn from labelled training data and yield predictions. A supervised learning model is
fed with input-output pairs, often as an equation mapping inputs to the desired output.

For example, a supervised learning algorithm could be trained on a dataset of home

prices, with parameters like size, location, and number of bedrooms. The output would
be the price, and once trained, the system could leverage these input features to
estimate a house's price.

2. Unsupervised Learning

Unlike Supervised Learning, Unsupervised Learning uses algorithms to learn from input
data without labelled responses or rewards. These algorithms aim to uncover structures
and patterns from the input data independently. Unsupervised Learning can unravel
previously unseen patterns in data compared to traditional learning methods.

A prevalent Unsupervised Learning task is clustering, where data points are grouped
based on shared characteristics. This technique can be used for customised marketing
strategies by segmenting customers based on their purchasing behaviour.

3. Semi-supervised Learning

Semi-supervised Learning resides between Supervised and Unsupervised Learning. This

methodology allows the algorithm to glean information from labelled and unlabeled
input. Only a tiny fraction of data is often labelled, while the bulk remains unlabeled.

This approach is advantageous when labelling data would be costly or time-consuming.

The algorithm utilises unlabeled data to enhance learning accuracy either by guiding the
learning process with the labelled data or adjusting the model's complexity based on its
predictions using the unlabeled data.

4. Reinforcement Learning

Reinforcement Learning is a unique approach where an agent learns to navigate in an

environment by performing actions and witnessing the outcomes. The goal is to
execute suitable actions to maximise rewards in a given scenario.
In Reinforcement Learning, the learning agent interacts with the environment by
implementing actions and receiving the system state and reward in return. It's a form of
dynamic programming that trains algorithms via a reward and punishment system.

Exploring the Top 10 Machine Learning Algorithms

● Linear Regression
● Logistic Regression
● Decision Tree
● Random Forest
● K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN)
● Naive Bayes
● Support Vector Machine (SVM)
● K-Means Clustering
● Gradient Boosting Algorithms
● Principal Component Analysis (PCA)

1. Linear Regression
The linear regression algorithm is a great place to learn about machine learning. Based
on a given independent variable (x), this statistical machine-learning technique seeks to
predict the value of a dependent variable (y). Since a straight line may be used to depict
it, it creates a relationship between x (input) and y (output), known as the linear
relationship.

Linear Regression finds its applications in forecasting, time series modelling, and finding
the causal effect relationship between the variables. For example, it can be used in
finance to forecast future stock prices based on past performance.

2. Logistic Regression
Contrary to what the name might suggest, Logistic Regression is used for classification
problems, not regression tasks. It is used when the output or the dependent variable is
binary - taking on two possible outcomes. Logistic regression is a fantastic tool for
predicting binary outcomes like yes/no or success/failure. It is particularly helpful in the
banking industry, where it may be used to determine how likely a customer is to default
on a loan based on parameters like income, loan size, age, and more. You can acquire
essential insights to help you make wise decisions and eventually enhance outcomes
by investigating these variables and their relationships.

3. Decision Tree
Another cornerstone of machine learning algorithms is the Decision Tree. This
supervised learning algorithm can be used for both classification and regression
problems. In simple terms, a decision tree uses a tree-like model of decisions. Each
node in the tree represents a feature (attribute), each link (branch) represents a
decision rule, and each leaf represents an outcome.
A notable benefit of decision trees is their transparency and ease of interpretation.
Decision trees can be used in various sectors, like healthcare for medical diagnosis,
finance for loan default predictions, or in the retail industry for customer segmentation.
4. Random Forest

The Random Forest algorithm is an ensemble learning method for classification,

regression, and other tasks that operate by constructing a multitude of decision trees at
training time. For classification tasks, the output of the random forest is the class
selected by most trees. For regression tasks, the mean or average prediction of the
individual trees is returnedK-Nearest Neighbors is a straightforward way to approach
machine learning and can be used for both classification and regression tasks. One of
its key strengths is that it doesn't rely on any assumptions about the data being
analysed. This means that it can be used in various contexts and can help provide
valuable insights into complex data sets.

Random Forest is versatile and powerful, capable of handling large data sets with high
dimensionality. It can also deal with missing values and maintain accuracy for missing
data.

5. K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN)

One of the most straightforward machine learning techniques, K-Nearest Neighbors

(KNN), is mainly used for classification and regression. KNN is an instance-based, non-
parametric supervised learning technique that makes no assumptions about the
distribution or quality of the input data.

In essence, KNN operates by comparing the distance of a new, unknown point to k

existing points in the data, with the value of 'k' being a user-defined constant. The 'K'
refers to the number of nearest neighbours to include in the majority of the voting
process. It is simple, easy to understand, versatile, and one of the top choices for
pattern recognition.

6. Naive Bayes
The Naive Bayes algorithm is based on Bayes' Theorem and is particularly suited to
high-dimensional datasets. It is a classification technique that assumes an
independence between predictors, meaning that an outcome or class depends on
independent variables. Still, each variable is independent of each other.
Naive Bayes is relatively easy to understand and build, fast and can be used for binary
and multiclass classification problems. It's used extensively in text analytics and natural
language processing tasks because it provides excellent results when working with text
data.

7. Support Vector Machine (SVM)

Support Vector Machine (SVM) is a supervised machine learning algorithm that can be
used for both classification and regression challenges. However, it is primarily used in
classification problems. The algorithm creates a hyperplane or line that differentiates
between classes as much as possible. SVM can also handle high dimensional data
well, making it a preferred algorithm in cases where the number of features is larger
than the number of observations.

8. K-Means Clustering
K-Means Clustering is an unsupervised learning algorithm that aims to partition a given
dataset into k clusters. It is commonly used when discovering insights from unlabeled
data quickly. Based on the provided features, the algorithm works iteratively to assign
each data point to one of the K groups.
I've been looking into some potent machine-learning methods for data analysis. K-
Nearest Neighbors is a strategy I learned about that is adaptable and doesn't require
any data assumptions. K-Means Clustering is an additional method with numerous
uses, including market segmentation and image compression

9. Principal Component Analysis (PCA)

Last but not least, Principal Component Analysis (PCA) is an excellent method for
lowering the dimensionality of massive datasets while minimising information loss,
making the data easier to analyse. Additionally, I now know that market segmentation,
document clustering, image segmentation, and image compression can all be done
using K-Means Clustering. Finally, a potent method for lowering the dimensionality of
massive datasets while preserving their interpretability is Principal Component Analysis
(PCA).

It does so by creating new uncorrelated variables that successively maximise variance.

In fields like computer vision and image processing, PCA helps reduce the data's
dimensions without losing much information. It is used widely in exploratory data
analysis and predictive modelling.

10. Gradient Boosting Algorithms

Gradient Boosting Algorithms are among the most powerful techniques for building
predictive models. These include algorithms like XGBoost, CatBoost, and LightGBM.
These algorithms combine the predictions of several simple models, also known as
weak learners, to create an improved prediction.
These algorithms have shown a high level of accuracy in many data science
competitions and are widely used in various industry problems. They can be used for
both regression and classification problems.
Having resources that may give you a hands-on approach when learning about machine
learning algorithms is great. Numerous educational platforms provide courses on these
algorithms, so it's crucial to pick one that enables you to apply the knowledge you gain
to practical issues. Remember that machine learning is a practical field; you'll need to
work with real-world datasets and difficulties to understand these techniques properly.

Institute Course Algorithm Covered Duration Fee

Machine Learning Free to Audit,

All algorithms
Coursera by Stanford 11 weeks Certificate for
mentioned
University $79

Principles of Linear Regression,

Free, Certificate
edX Machine Learning Decision Trees, K- 6 weeks
for $99
by Microsoft Means Clustering

Regression,
Supervised Classification, Subscription
DataCamp Learning with Decision Trees, 4 weeks starts at
Scikit-Learn Random Forest, $25/month
Gradient Boosting

Machine Learning
A-Z™: Hands-On All algorithms Usually on sale,
Udemy Self-paced
Python & R In mentioned $10-$20
Data Science

Machine Learning 44 hours of

All algorithms
Simplilearn Certification self-paced $600-$900
mentioned
Course learning

KNN, Linear Part of

Codecadem Machine Learning Regression, Codecademy
20 hours
y Fundamentals Multiple Linear Pro,
Regression $19.99/month
with a strong foundation for solving real-world problems. Choosing an educational
platform with a hands-on approach is essential, allowing you to work with real-world
datasets and challenges. By applying the skills you learn to practical situations, you'll be
better equipped to succeed in the field of machine learning. So, take your time, stay
focused, and keep learning. With dedication and perseverance, you can become a
machine learning expert quickly!

What are the top ten machine learning algorithms for beginners?

The top ten machine learning algorithms that are generally suggested for beginners are
Linear Regression, Logistic Regression, Decision Trees, Random Forests, K-Nearest
Neighbors (KNN), Support Vector Machines (SVM), Naive Bayes, Principal Component
Analysis (PCA), K-Means Clustering, and Gradient Boosting algorithms (like XGBoost or
LightGBM).

Why is understanding Linear and Logistic Regression important

for beginners?
Linear and Logistic Regression is fundamental to machine learning. Linear Regression
predicts continuous variables, while Logistic Regression is used for binary classification
problems. Understanding these two algorithms gives beginners a strong foundation in
understanding the basic principles of machine learning, such as how input features are
used to predict an output.
How do decision trees and random forests differ, and why are
both included in the top 10?
Decision Trees and Random Forests are both algorithms based on a series of binary
decisions. A single Decision Tree is often prone to overfitting the training data, which
may not generalise well to unseen data. On the other hand, a Random Forest mitigates
this risk by creating an ensemble of decision trees, each trained on a random subset of
the training data, and averaging their predictions. While Decision Trees help beginners
understand the concept of decision-making in ML, Random Forests illustrate the
concept of ensemble learning.
What is the advantage of understanding K-Nearest Neighbors
(KNN) and Support Vector Machines (SVM) for a beginner?
KNN and SVM introduce beginners to instance-based and margin-based learning,
respectively. KNN works by classifying a data point based on the majority class of its 'k'
nearest neighbours in the feature space, which helps understand the concept of
distance in feature space. Conversely, SVM finds an optimal hyperplane that best
separates the different classes by a maximum margin. This can provide a deeper
understanding of the geometric aspects of ML algorithms.
Can unsupervised learning algorithms like K-Means Clustering
and PCA be used as standalone solutions?
K-Means Clustering and PCA can be standalone solutions depending on the task. K-Means
is used for clustering-related tasks where the objective is to group similar instances,
while PCA is often used for dimensionality reduction. However, they are also often used
in conjunction with other machine learning algorithms as part of a more extensive
pipeline. For example, PCA can reduce the dimensionality of the dataset before feeding
it to a supervised learning algorithm, improving computational efficiency and, potentially,
model performance.