A data scientist wants to evaluate the performance of various nonlinear models. Which of the following is best suited for this task?
Correct Answer: A
The task is to evaluate and compare nonlinear models. In model evaluation, particularly for complex or nonlinear models, it is important to consider not only the goodness-of-fit but also the complexity of the model to avoid overfitting.
Akaike Information Criterion (AIC) is a model selection metric used to compare the relative quality of statistical models (including nonlinear models). It takes into account both the likelihood of the model (how well it fits the data) and a penalty for the number of parameters (model complexity).
Why the other options are incorrect:
* B. Chi-squared test: Typically used for testing relationships between categorical variables, not for evaluating model fit for nonlinear models.
* C. MCC (Matthews Correlation Coefficient): Used for binary classification performance, not suitable for general model evaluation across different nonlinear regression models.
* D. ANOVA (Analysis of Variance): Used to compare means among groups, often for linear models and experimental designs, not suitable for general nonlinear model evaluation.
Exact Extract and Official References:
* CompTIA DataX (DY0-001) Official Study Guide, Domain: Modeling, Analysis, and Outcomes
"AIC provides a method for model comparison, especially for nonlinear and complex models, by balancing model fit and complexity." (Section 3.2, Model Evaluation Metrics)
* Data Science Fundamentals, DS Institute:
"AIC is used extensively in selecting among competing models, especially in regression and nonlinear modeling, as it penalizes model complexity while rewarding goodness of fit." (Chapter 6, Model Evaluation)