Training data and test data

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Definition

Training data is used to teach the model; separate test data checks how well it works on data it has not seen.

Example: Hold back 20% of the data for testing.

Check this one: Standard ML practice; check the exact wording against your class notes.

Where you'll use it in the test

Syllabus area: Y12 Software Automation.

Question types it can appear in

Multiple choice: Pick the option that matches the definition or example.
Short answer: Define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
Fill in the blanks: Choose this term to complete a statement or table.

Where it has appeared in the paper

Software Automation (Part B). Part letters follow each paper’s own layout.

How to use it

A model sentence

General advice, built from the definition and example above

“Training data is used to teach the model; separate test data checks how well it works on data it has not seen.” Then apply it: Hold back 20% of the data for testing.

In a short answer, give the definition in your own words first, then tie it to the situation in the question. Do not copy the example above unless it fits the scenario.

Command words used with it

From the linked past questions

Compare: Show how things are similar or different. (Sample exam Q23b (3 marks): Linear regression v K-nearest neighbour)

Official worked answer

Sample exam Q23b (3 marks): Linear regression v K-nearest neighbour (3 marks): official criteria and sample answer

Criteria

3: Compares linear regression and KNN. 2: Outlines features of one or both. 1: Some relevant information.

Sample answer

Linear regression and K-nearest neighbours (KNN) are both supervised learning algorithms that make predictions from labelled data. The key difference is how they handle data: linear regression assumes a linear relationship between input features and the target variable, while KNN makes predictions based on the closest 'K' training examples, allowing it to handle more complex, non-linear patterns. However, KNN can be more computationally expensive than linear regression and is usually slower.

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Go deeper

Flashcard: Training data and test data in Software Automation (Year 12) · study that set
Memorise: Models of training ML
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