What is maximum likelihood estimation (MLE)?
Estimation of probability densities is a crucial part of data analysis, and maximum likelihood estimation (MLE) is a powerful technique in this area. MLE allows us to estimate these densities within a flexible and generalized framework. Here we explore the essential elements of this technique and its relevance in the context of machine learning and probabilistic analysis.
What are the steps to apply MLE?
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Choosing a distribution: As in the previous methods, it is essential to choose the appropriate probability distribution for the data. For example, assuming a normal distribution when the data follow a Gaussian pattern.
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Parameter selection: Once the distribution has been chosen, the next task is to determine the parameters that best fit the data. These parameters can be the mean and standard deviation in the case of a normal distribution.
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Frequentist constraint: In practice, the data sample we analyze is only a partial representation of a larger, unknown population. Estimation must be performed under this constraint, which implies accepting that the distribution of our sample may differ from the actual distribution of the entire population.
How does MLE become an optimization problem?
MLE is formulated as an optimization problem in which we seek to maximize the probability that the data follow the selected distribution. The general process is:
- Variable definition: 'x' represents the data, and 'θ' are the parameters of the distribution we want to fit.
- Likelihood function: The probability of fitting the data to the selected distribution is denoted as 'l', and the objective is to maximize this function, finding the parameters that make this possible.
- Factorization of probabilities: Often, one can decompose the joint probability of the data as the product of individual point probabilities.
Why use the logarithm in MLE?
Multiplying many small probabilities can result in underflow, where the numbers become too small to be computable by machines. To avoid this:
- Use of the logarithm: The mathematical property of the logarithm turns the problem of multiplying probabilities into that of adding logarithms. This not only prevents underflow, but transforms very small numbers into large negative numbers that are more computationally tractable.
How is the log likelihood maximized?
The central problem of MLE revolves around finding the maximum of the logarithm of the likelihood function, which is equivalent to maximizing the sum of the logarithms of the individual probabilities. This approach simplifies the computational process and ensures numerical robustness.
By optimizing, the result provides us with the probability density that best fits the available data.
What's next in learning?
With a solid foundation in MLE, the next step is to apply it to specific cases. In the next class, we will explore how this technique integrates with other machine learning methods, such as linear regression, to demonstrate its effectiveness on practical data analysis problems. Stay motivated and keep delving into this fascinating field!
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