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Monte Carlo tree search

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TL;DR. A heuristic search algorithm used in decision processes, particularly in games, that balances exploration and exploitation using random sampling.

Technical Definition

A heuristic search algorithm used in decision processes, particularly in games, that balances exploration and exploitation using random sampling.

How it works

Monte Carlo Tree Search (MCTS) is a powerful algorithm for finding optimal decisions in complex domains, often used in games like Go. It works by building a search tree, using random sampling (Monte Carlo simulations) to estimate the value of different moves. This allows it to explore promising branches while also balancing exploration with exploitation.

Related Concepts

  • Reinforcement Learning — A paradigm where an agent learns to make decisions by receiving rewards or penalties from its environment through trial and error.
  • Search algorithm — A process for finding information or solutions within data or a problem space.

Further Reading

  • Wikipedia — Glossary of AI