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How to Learn Machine Learning vs Deep Learning?

One of the most common questions when getting into AI is:
Should I start with Machine Learning or jump straight into Deep Learning?

In a recent podcast snippet, we broke down a simple roadmap that avoids frustration and helps you actually improve your models.

Start with Machine Learning (ML)

Before diving into neural networks, it pays off to learn the foundations:

  • Data cleaning & preprocessing: understanding the pipeline is key.
  • Classical models: linear regression, logistic regression, decision trees.
  • Interpretability: you can explain why your model makes a prediction.

This stage builds the intuition you'll need later.

Move into Deep Learning (DL)

Once you’re comfortable with ML basics, it’s time to level up:

  • Neural networks for tasks where classic ML hits its limits.
  • Specialized architectures like CNNs (vision) or RNNs/Transformers (language).
  • Scalability: handling bigger datasets and more complex problems.

Deep Learning is powerful, but without the ML foundations, it’s easy to feel lost.

Here's a snippet from our podcast, how did you approach learning ML vs DL?

💡 We usually share content on AI, ML/DL, and dev tools on YouTube.

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