In recent years, machine learning (ML) algorithms have proved themselves to be remarkably useful in helping people deal with different tasks: data classification and clustering, pattern revealing ...

Machine learning uses algorithms to turn a data set into a model that can identify patterns or make predictions from new data. Which algorithm works best depends on the problem.

The next step up is machine learning, which uses algorithms. “Rather than a person programming in the rules, the system itself has learned,” Mitchell said.

This is the result of one of Google's machine learning algorithms; a system that detects what searches you make a couple seconds after making a certain search.

Machine learning algorithms are the engines of machine learning, meaning it is the algorithms that turn a data set into a model.

Machine learning isn’t just something locked up in an academic lab though. Lots of machine learning algorithms are open-source and widely available.