What is max_features in Random Forest?
Updated May 17, 2026
Short answer
max_features controls number of features considered at each split.
Deep explanation
Reducing features increases randomness and reduces correlation between trees, improving generalization.
Real-world example
Used in NLP classification models to avoid feature dominance.
Common mistakes
- Using all features always reduces randomness.
Follow-up questions
- What are common values?
- Does it affect speed?