Machine Learning for Developers

Markov decision process

Before explaining reinforcement learning techniques, we will explain the type of problem we will attack with them.

When talking about reinforcement learning, we want to optimize the problem of a Markov decision process. It consists of a mathematical model that aids decision making in situations where the outcomes are in part random, and in part under the control of an agent.

The main elements of this model are an Agent, an Environment, and a State, as shown in the following diagram:

Simplified scheme of a reinforcement learning process

The agent can perform certain actions (such as moving the paddle left or right). ...