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The geometric margin

ProofFoundation⏱ 15 minClassical MLsvmmargingeometrydistance

Problem

Derive the distance from a point x0x_0 to the hyperplane {x:⟨w,x⟩+b=0}\{x:\langle w,x\rangle+b=0\}, and explain why the objective min⁡iyi(⟨w,xi⟩+b)/∥w∥2\min_i y_i(\langle w,x_i\rangle+b)/\|w\|_2 is invariant under (w,b)↦(cw,cb)(w,b)\mapsto(cw,cb) while the numerator alone is not.

Write a complete argument. Every inequality you use should be one you could state precisely.

Solution

Opening this before you have a real attempt on paper is the fastest way to feel like you understand something you cannot reproduce.

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