What is initialization in Gradient Descent?

Updated May 16, 2026

Short answer

Initialization is the process of setting starting values for model parameters.

Deep explanation

Gradient Descent begins from initial weights. Poor initialization can slow convergence or trap optimization in bad regions. Techniques like Xavier and He initialization improve performance in deep learning.

Real-world example

Starting training of neural networks with randomized weights.

Common mistakes

  • Initializing all weights to zero.

Follow-up questions

  • Why not zero initialization?
  • What is Xavier initialization?

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