glossary

What is machine learning?

Computer systems that learn from data to improve accuracy — the NIST definition.

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Computer systems that learn from data to improve accuracy — the NIST definition.

What it means

NIST defines machine learning as "the development and use of computer systems that adapt and learn from data with the goal of improving accuracy."

It is a subset of artificial intelligence and the core of roles like Machine Learning Engineer and Data Scientist.

Definitional only; not career advice or a difficulty ranking.

Core source records

This table lists the page’s core content records and when they were checked. Claim-specific citations appear beside the relevant text and may not be repeated here.

IDSupportsSourceChecked
CIT-01NIST CSRC glossary — machine learningNational Institute of Standards and Technology — NIST CSRC Glossary — machine learning2026-06-15

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