liveBook · Manning

Learning rate

As explained in Grokking AI Algorithms, Second Edition

A learning rate is a training hyperparameter that controls the step size used to update model parameters.

A learning rate is a training hyperparameter that controls how large a step model weights take during backpropagation. Small steps can make training slow; large steps can make updates chaotic. section 9.18 section 11.35

The rate is part of gradient descent: after calculating the gradient, training moves in the opposite direction, with the learning rate determining the step size. section 9.26

Choosing a learning rate involves balancing speed, stability, and experimentation:

  • Use a slow rate for smaller, steadier updates, while recognizing that training may take longer. section 9.18
  • Treat a high rate cautiously because dramatic weight changes can produce chaotic training. section 9.18
  • Adjust the rate when training stagnates, using experimentation or a tuning strategy. section 9.18 section 11.35

Comparing candidate values

A tuning run might compare learning rates of 0.01, 0.001, and 0.0001. Grid search trains every selected combination, while random search tests a fixed number of randomly chosen combinations and can explore more efficiently. section 11.35

How Grokking AI Algorithms, Second Edition covers it

How deep it goes
Explains update-size effects and gradient-descent placement, then stops short of detailed optimization theory.
Examples
Uses candidate values 0.01, 0.001, and 0.0001 with manual, grid, and random search.
What it assumes
Assumes familiarity with model weights and backpropagation while defining the learning rate from those operations.
What you can do after
Operate/configure training by selecting and adjusting a learning rate through observed results or systematic search.
How it connects
Links learning rate to backpropagation, gradient descent, stochastic gradient descent, and hyperparameter tuning.

Also explained in

Compare how 16 books explain learning rate →

Related concepts

This explainer was generated by Manning's knowledge graph from the text of Grokking AI Algorithms, Second Edition. The section links point to the parts of the book it draws on.