Ask HN: As a data scientist, what should be in my toolkit in 2018?

Re:Ask HN: As a data scientist, what should be in my toolkit... by jeffreyrogers on Tuesday February 20, 2018 @01:44PM (#16422768)

That doesn't seem like a good use of time. I've tried reading through and doing the exercises in an abstract algebra textbook. It's a lot of work and the applicability to real world problems is virtually non-existent. I think a more targeted approach would give you a better return on your time.

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Re:Ask HN: As a data scientist, what should be in my toolkit... by dsacco on Tuesday February 20, 2018 @02:01PM (#16422979)

Sure, I agree. Abstract algebra isn’t directly helpful. But:

1. The context is knowing more math than someone who has an undergraduate degree in it,

2. Abstract algebra is part of such a degree, and contributes significantly to overall mathematical maturity, and

3. You can avoid some subjects in the short term, but in the long term you can’t progress further without a reasonable mastery of algebra and analysis.

Probability theory and linear algebra are heavily used in data science. You won’t be as competitive a candidate for a job if you don’t have a firm grasp of both subjects. At a certain point, linear algebra ceases to be distinct from abstract algebra, and those exercises you were doing become applicable to real world results.

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