Introduction to Linear Algebra and Python from Coursera

This course is the first of a series that is designed for beginners who want to learn how to apply basic data science concepts to real-world problems. You might be a student who is considering pursuing a career in data science and wanting to learn more, or you might be a business professional who wants to apply some data science principles to your work. Or, you might simply be a curious, lifelong learner intrigued by the powerful tools that data science and math provides. Regardless of your motivation, we’ll provide you with the support and information you need to get started.

In this course, we'll cover the fundamentals of linear algebra, including systems of linear equations, matrix operations, and vector equations. Whether you’ve learned some of these concepts before and are looking for a refresher or you’re brand new to the ideas we’ll cover, you’ll find the materials to support you. Let's get started!

What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction to Matrices and Linear Algebra

In module 1, you'll learn how to explain fundamental concepts of linear algebra and how to use Python, one of the most powerful programming languages, to model different data. We will cover the following learning objectives.

Using Linear Algebra Concepts in Python

Let's recap! In module 1, you performed software installation, learned some best practices, and learned how graphs are used to model data in Python. In module 2, you'll gain the knowledge you need to use linear algebra to solve data science problems. You'll also perform matrix algebra on large data sets using Python. We will cover the following learning objectives.

Vector Equations and Systems of Linear Equations

Let's recap! In module 2, you learned how to use linear algebra to solve data science problems. Using Python, you also learned how to perform matrix algebra on large data sets. In module 3, you will learn how to define vector equations and use vector equations to model data. We will cover the following learning objectives.

Real-World Applications of Vector Equations

Welcome to the final module of this course! Over the past 3 modules, you have been introduced to and gained knowledge on the following topics:- Version control - Git Bash, Jupyter Notebook via Anaconda, NumPy and SymPy, and other software tools, Modeling data, Matrix algebra and, Vector equations. In the final module of the course, you'll apply what you've learned to concrete, real-world examples. You'll practice using vector equations to study data sets and provide peer reviews. We will cover the following learning objectives.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Designed to help beginners apply basic data science concepts to real-world problems through the use of Python and linear algebra

Instructors include Dennis Davenport and MOUSSA DOUMBIA, both experts in their respective fields

Covers a wide range of topics relevant to data science, including linear algebra, matrix operations, and vector equations

Introduces learners to relevant software tools, such as Python, NumPy, SymPy, and Jupyter Notebook

Emphasizes hands-on learning through software installation, best practices, and data modeling activities

Provides real-world applications of vector equations to help learners understand their practical significance

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Introduction to Linear Algebra and Python with these activities:

Review Calculus Concepts

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Review key concepts from calculus, which provide a foundation for understanding linear algebra.

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Review the concepts of limits, derivatives, and integrals
Solve practice problems to reinforce your understanding

Read 'Linear Algebra and Its Applications'

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Review the foundational concepts of linear algebra by reading a comprehensive textbook before starting the course.

View Linear Algebra and Its Applications, Global... on Amazon

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Read the assigned chapters on matrix operations, vector equations, and linear transformations
Solve the practice problems at the end of each chapter

Practice Basic Matrix Operations

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Practice basic matrix operations to refresh your understanding of matrix algebra before starting the course.

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Review matrix addition and subtraction
Practice multiplying matrices
Try solving systems of linear equations using matrices

Five other activities

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Follow Tutorials on Matrix Decompositions

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Follow online tutorials to supplement your understanding of matrix decompositions, which are covered later in the course.

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Find reputable tutorials on matrix decompositions
Watch the tutorials and take notes
Try the practice exercises provided in the tutorials

Solve Vector Equation Practice Problems

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Solve practice problems on vector equations to reinforce the concepts covered in the course.

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Find the solutions to systems of vector equations
Apply vector equations to model real-world problems

Attend a Linear Algebra Workshop

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Attend a workshop led by an expert in linear algebra to gain hands-on experience and clarify your understanding of the subject.

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Research and find a suitable workshop
Register for the workshop and attend all sessions
Participate actively in discussions and exercises

Visualize Matrix Transformations

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Create visual representations of matrix transformations to enhance your understanding of their effects on data.

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Choose a matrix transformation to visualize
Use a programming language or software to create a visual representation
Analyze the visualization to understand the effects of the transformation

Mentor a Junior Student in Linear Algebra

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Enhance your understanding by mentoring a junior student in linear algebra, helping them to grasp the concepts and solve problems.

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Identify a junior student who needs assistance
Meet regularly to review concepts and solve problems together
Provide feedback and encouragement to help the student progress

Career center

Learners who complete Introduction to Linear Algebra and Python will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Data Scientist

Data Scientists use scientific methods to extract knowledge and insights from data. This course can be useful in building a foundation for this job role, as it provides an introduction to linear algebra and Python, both of which are essential skills for Data Scientists. Particularly, the module on using linear algebra concepts in Python can be helpful for understanding how to use these tools in a practical setting.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Scientist

Machine Learning Engineer

Machine Learning Engineers design, build, and maintain machine learning models. This course can be useful in building a foundation for this job role, as it provides an introduction to linear algebra and Python, both of which are essential skills for Machine Learning Engineers. Particularly, the module on using linear algebra concepts in Python can be helpful for understanding how to use these tools in a practical setting.

See salaries and explore the career path for Machine Learning Engineer

Quantitative Analyst

Quantitative Analysts use mathematical and statistical models to analyze financial data and make predictions about future market trends. This course can be useful in building a foundation for this job role, as it provides an introduction to linear algebra and Python, both of which are essential skills for Quantitative Analysts. Particularly, the module on using linear algebra concepts in Python can be helpful for understanding how to use these tools in a practical setting.

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Statistician

Statisticians collect, analyze, and interpret data. This course can be useful in building a foundation for this job role, as it provides an introduction to linear algebra and Python, both of which are essential skills for Statisticians. Particularly, the module on using linear algebra concepts in Python can be helpful for understanding how to use these tools in a practical setting.

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Software Engineer

Software Engineers design, develop, and maintain software systems. This course can be useful in building a foundation for this job role, as it provides an introduction to linear algebra and Python, both of which are essential skills for Software Engineers. Particularly, the module on using linear algebra concepts in Python can be helpful for understanding how to use these tools in a practical setting.

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Data Analyst

Data Analysts collect, analyze, and interpret data to provide insights that can be used to make better decisions. This course can be useful in building a foundation for this job role, as it provides an introduction to linear algebra and Python, both of which are essential skills for Data Analysts. Particularly, the module on using linear algebra concepts in Python can be helpful for understanding how to use these tools in a practical setting.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst

Financial Analyst

Financial Analysts evaluate and recommend investments. This course can be useful in building a foundation for this job role, as it provides an introduction to linear algebra and Python, both of which are essential skills for Financial Analysts. Particularly, the module on using linear algebra concepts in Python can be helpful for understanding how to use these tools in a practical setting.

See salaries and explore the career path for Financial Analyst

Actuary

Actuaries analyze and assess financial risks. This course can be useful in building a foundation for this job role, as it provides an introduction to linear algebra and Python, both of which are essential skills for Actuaries. Particularly, the module on using linear algebra concepts in Python can be helpful for understanding how to use these tools in a practical setting.

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Risk Manager

Risk Managers identify, assess, and mitigate risks. This course can be useful in building a foundation for this job role, as it provides an introduction to linear algebra and Python, both of which are essential skills for Risk Managers. Particularly, the module on using linear algebra concepts in Python can be helpful for understanding how to use these tools in a practical setting.

See salaries and explore the career path for Risk Manager

Market Researcher

Market Researchers conduct research to understand market trends and consumer behavior. This course can be useful in building a foundation for this job role, as it provides an introduction to linear algebra and Python, both of which are essential skills for Market Researchers. Particularly, the module on using linear algebra concepts in Python can be helpful for understanding how to use these tools in a practical setting.

See salaries and explore the career path for Market Researcher

Financial Advisor

Financial Advisors provide financial advice to individuals and businesses. This course can be useful in building a foundation for this job role, as it provides an introduction to linear algebra and Python, both of which are essential skills for Financial Advisors. Particularly, the module on using linear algebra concepts in Python can be helpful for understanding how to use these tools in a practical setting.

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Business Analyst

Business Analysts analyze business processes and identify opportunities for improvement. This course can be useful in building a foundation for this job role, as it provides an introduction to linear algebra and Python, both of which are essential skills for Business Analysts. Particularly, the module on using linear algebra concepts in Python can be helpful for understanding how to use these tools in a practical setting.

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Operations Research Analyst

Operations Research Analysts use mathematical and analytical techniques to solve business problems. This course can be useful in building a foundation for this job role, as it provides an introduction to linear algebra and Python, both of which are essential skills for Operations Research Analysts. Particularly, the module on using linear algebra concepts in Python can be helpful for understanding how to use these tools in a practical setting.

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Management Consultant

Management Consultants advise businesses on how to improve their operations. This course can be useful in building a foundation for this job role, as it provides an introduction to linear algebra and Python, both of which are essential skills for Management Consultants. Particularly, the module on using linear algebra concepts in Python can be helpful for understanding how to use these tools in a practical setting.

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Teacher

Teachers plan, prepare, and deliver instruction to students. This course may be useful in building a foundation for this job role, as it provides an introduction to linear algebra and Python, which can be helpful for understanding the mathematical concepts taught in schools.

See salaries and explore the career path for Teacher