The Three Data Sets
60%
Training Set 📚
Used to train the model - the network learns patterns from this data by adjusting weights
20%
Validation Set 🔍
Used during training to tune hyperparameters and prevent overfitting
20%
Test Set 🎯
Used only once at the end to evaluate final model performance
The Cooking Analogy
🍳 Think of training a neural network like learning to cook:
Training Set = Your cookbook recipes
You practice and learn techniques from these
Validation Set = Taste testing while cooking
You adjust seasoning and cooking time based on feedback
Test Set = The dinner party
The final test where guests judge your cooking skills!
Key Rule: Never let your model see the test set during training - that's cheating!