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Deep Q-Network (DQN)

Visual diagram · (in preparation) · Math · (in preparation) · Worked example · 3 difficulty levels.

TL;DR. A type of Q-learning algorithm that uses a deep neural network to approximate the Q-value function.

Technical Definition

A type of Q-learning algorithm that uses a deep neural network to approximate the Q-value function.

How it works

A Deep Q-Network (DQN) combines Q-learning with deep neural networks to handle high-dimensional state spaces, like those found in image-based reinforcement learning tasks. The neural network learns to predict the optimal action-value function (Q-function) for each state. This allows agents to learn effective policies in complex environments where traditional Q-learning would be intractable.

Related Concepts

  • Neural Network — A computing system inspired by biological neural networks that learns patterns from data through interconnected layers of nodes.
  • Reinforcement Learning — A paradigm where an agent learns to make decisions by receiving rewards or penalties from its environment through trial and error.
  • Q-Learning — A model-free RL algorithm that learns action values without knowing environment dynamics.

Further Reading

  • Google ML Glossary