Requiring minimal mathematical prerequisites, this classroom-tested text covers the core mathematical and statistical techniques needed to understand some of the most popular machine learning algorithms, including classification, clustering, and projection algorithms. The MATLAB ® /Octave scripts available online enable readers to recreate plots that appear in the book and investigate changing model specifications and parameter values. By experimenting with the various algorithms and concepts, readers see how an abstract set of equations can be used to solve real problems. A solutions manual is available upon qualifying course instruction.