SVM Demystified— Part of the Demystify AI Series

Humans For AI
Jul 22, 2017 · 2 min read

Written by Arun Krishnaswamy

This article is a part of the series to explore different ML algorithms and simplify them. Goal of the series is for common people to understand all things algorithms. When someone comes across “SVM” — they will know what it is !

Part 1 — SVM

2 colors of balls on a table to be separated

Let us Put a Stick

Put a Stick to Separate

What if someone adds more balls to the table

More balls added to the table

SVM solves this problem as follows — Puts a stick on the table by having a big gap on either side of the stick as possible.

SVM puts a stick by having a BIG GAP between the Sticks and the balls on either side

What if u don’t have a stick — can SVM still separate ?

FLIP the table -Throwing the balls into the air. Put a sheet of paper and slip it between the balls.

Flipping the table and Inserting a Paper between the balls

The Balls are split by a CURVE

Balls split by a CURVE instead of stick — but they are SEPARATED

SVM Algorithm Glossary

Balls — data,

The stick — classifier,

The biggest gap trick — optimization,

Call flipping the table — kernelling

Piece of paper a hyperplane.

Stay tuned for more demystification…..

About the Author

Arun volunteered for Humans For AI, a non-profit focused on building a more diverse workforce for the future leveraging AI technologies. Learn more about us and join us as we embark on this journey to make a difference!

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