The provided code demonstrates the implementation of a linear regression model using scikit-learn’s `LinearRegression` class. To understand this code, let’s dive into the theory of linear regression:
Linear Regression Theory:
Linear regression is a supervised machine learning algorithm used for predicting a continuous target variable (also known as the dependent variable) based on one or more independent variables (features or predictors). The goal of linear regression is to model the linear relationship between the independent variables and the target variable.
y=β0+β1x+ε
Where:
- y is the target variable.
- x is the independent variable.
- 0β0 is the y-intercept (the value of y when x is zero).
- 1β1 is the slope coefficient (the change in y for a one-unit change in x).
- ε represents the error term, accounting for the noise or unexplained variance in the relationship.
Multiple Linear Regression:
In multiple linear regression, we extend this concept to multiple independent variables.
Key Concepts:
- Intercept : The intercept represents the value of the target variable when all independent variables are zero. It is also known as the bias term. In the code, intercept_ provides the value of the intercept.
- Coefficients The coefficients indicate how much the target variable is expected to change for a one-unit change in the corresponding independent variable, while holding all other variables constant. These coefficients are estimated during the model training process.
- Fitting the Model: The fit method is used to train the linear regression model. It finds the optimal values of the coefficients (β) that minimize the sum of squared differences between the predicted values and the actual target values in the training data.
- Predictions: Once the model is trained, it can be used to make predictions on new or unseen data. The relationship learned during training is applied to estimate the target variable’s values based on the input features.
- Intercept Value: The value of the intercept (β0) is essential for understanding the starting point of the regression line when all features are zero. It contributes to the overall prediction of the target variable.
In summary, linear regression is a fundamental technique for modeling relationships between variables. It is widely used in various fields for tasks such as prediction, analysis, and understanding the impact of independent variables on a target variable. The code you provided demonstrates how to create, train, and obtain key parameters (including the intercept) from a linear regression model using scikit-learn.