midPCA
What is reconstruction error in PCA?
Updated May 17, 2026
Short answer
Reconstruction error measures information loss after dimensionality reduction.
Deep explanation
When data is projected into lower dimensions and reconstructed back, difference between original and reconstructed data is reconstruction error. Lower error indicates better retention of information.
Real-world example
Evaluating compression quality in image processing.
Common mistakes
- Ignoring reconstruction error when selecting components.
Follow-up questions
- What reduces reconstruction error?
- Is zero error possible?