Beginning with machine learning: a comprehensive primer

This is a primer on machine learning for beginners. Certainly, there are plenty of excellent books on the subject, providing detailed explanations of many algorithms. The intent of this primer is not to outdo these texts in rigor; rather, to provide an introduction to the subject that is accessible, yet covers all the mathematical details, and provides implementations of most algorithms in Python. We feel this provides a well-rounded understanding of each algorithm: only by writing the code and seeing the math applied, and visually inspecting the algorithm’s working, will a reader be fully able to connect all the dots. The style of the primer is largely conversational, and avoids too much formal jargon. We will certainly introduce all required technical terms, but while explaining an algorithm, we will use simple English and avoid unnecessarily formalisms. We hope this proves useful for individuals willing to seriously study the subject.