Neural Networks 151. Don't let the math scare you

I picked up this book as a slightly more advanced and technical introduction to neural networks than the pure applied programming or highly conceptual books out there. Hence the title "Neural Networks 151" instead of "Neural Networks 101". I was looking for something that provided a detailed, behind-the-scenes look at the theory and structure of neural networks without requiring a PhD in math. This book delivered. While there is a great deal of math, it's actually quite straightforward if you look closely. For the most part, the math is simply a representation of what's contained in the text. Reading the text allowed me to grasp the mathematical equivalent quickly and easily. This is distinct from books which put out 20 equations and only have a few lines of text, leaving you to painfully and slowly work through each equation to figure out what's going on (reaching for other textbooks and lots of coffee along the way). Does it help to have a great deal of mathematical knowledge ? Sure. Is it absolutely necessary ? Not in my opinion. E.g., "delta x" simply means "change in x". If that sounds familiar or straightforward, the book shouldn't be too difficult. I skimmed sections that weren't totally applicable to the problems I was looking at, but it was good to see the knowledge was there in case I needed to return to it later. It seems geared towards an instructional setting, but not at a 301 level. As an intermediate book that solidified my understanding and knowledge of neural networks, it was perfect.

Other Reviews

• Neural Networks 151. Don't let the math scare you
• Easy to read, easy to apply
• Good introductory book, too expensive
• The best book to get introduced to Neural Networks
• Good, but not very mathematical