Optimization and Learning via Stochastic Gradient Search
An introduction to gradient-based stochastic optimization that integrates theory and implementation

This book explains gradient-based stochastic optimization, exploiting the methodologies of stochastic approximation and gradient estimation. Although the approach is theoretical, the book emphasizes developing algorithms that implement the methods. The underlying philosophy of this book is that when solving real problems, mathematical theory, the art of modeling, and numerical algorithms complement each other, with no one outlook dominating the others.

The book first covers the theory of stochastic approximation including advanced models and state-of-the-art analysis methodology, treating applications that do not require the use of gradient estimation. It then presents gradient estimation, developing a modern approach that incorporates cutting-edge numerical algorithms. Finally, the book culminates in a rich set of case studies that integrate the concepts previously discussed into fully worked models. The use of stochastic approximation in statistics and machine learning is discussed, and in-depth theoretical treatments for selected gradient estimation approaches are included.

Numerous examples show how the methods are applied concretely, and end-of-chapter exercises enable readers to consolidate their knowledge. Many chapters end with a section on “Practical Considerations” that addresses typical tradeoffs encountered in implementation. The book provides the first unified treatment of the topic, written for a wide audience that includes researchers and graduate students in applied mathematics, engineering, computer science, physics, and economics.

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Optimization and Learning via Stochastic Gradient Search
An introduction to gradient-based stochastic optimization that integrates theory and implementation

This book explains gradient-based stochastic optimization, exploiting the methodologies of stochastic approximation and gradient estimation. Although the approach is theoretical, the book emphasizes developing algorithms that implement the methods. The underlying philosophy of this book is that when solving real problems, mathematical theory, the art of modeling, and numerical algorithms complement each other, with no one outlook dominating the others.

The book first covers the theory of stochastic approximation including advanced models and state-of-the-art analysis methodology, treating applications that do not require the use of gradient estimation. It then presents gradient estimation, developing a modern approach that incorporates cutting-edge numerical algorithms. Finally, the book culminates in a rich set of case studies that integrate the concepts previously discussed into fully worked models. The use of stochastic approximation in statistics and machine learning is discussed, and in-depth theoretical treatments for selected gradient estimation approaches are included.

Numerous examples show how the methods are applied concretely, and end-of-chapter exercises enable readers to consolidate their knowledge. Many chapters end with a section on “Practical Considerations” that addresses typical tradeoffs encountered in implementation. The book provides the first unified treatment of the topic, written for a wide audience that includes researchers and graduate students in applied mathematics, engineering, computer science, physics, and economics.

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Optimization and Learning via Stochastic Gradient Search

Optimization and Learning via Stochastic Gradient Search

Optimization and Learning via Stochastic Gradient Search

Optimization and Learning via Stochastic Gradient Search

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Overview

An introduction to gradient-based stochastic optimization that integrates theory and implementation

This book explains gradient-based stochastic optimization, exploiting the methodologies of stochastic approximation and gradient estimation. Although the approach is theoretical, the book emphasizes developing algorithms that implement the methods. The underlying philosophy of this book is that when solving real problems, mathematical theory, the art of modeling, and numerical algorithms complement each other, with no one outlook dominating the others.

The book first covers the theory of stochastic approximation including advanced models and state-of-the-art analysis methodology, treating applications that do not require the use of gradient estimation. It then presents gradient estimation, developing a modern approach that incorporates cutting-edge numerical algorithms. Finally, the book culminates in a rich set of case studies that integrate the concepts previously discussed into fully worked models. The use of stochastic approximation in statistics and machine learning is discussed, and in-depth theoretical treatments for selected gradient estimation approaches are included.

Numerous examples show how the methods are applied concretely, and end-of-chapter exercises enable readers to consolidate their knowledge. Many chapters end with a section on “Practical Considerations” that addresses typical tradeoffs encountered in implementation. The book provides the first unified treatment of the topic, written for a wide audience that includes researchers and graduate students in applied mathematics, engineering, computer science, physics, and economics.


Product Details

ISBN-13: 9780691245867
Publisher: Princeton University Press
Publication date: 10/28/2025
Series: Princeton Series in Applied Mathematics
Pages: 432
Product dimensions: 7.00(w) x 10.00(h) x (d)

About the Author

Felisa Vázquez-Abad is professor of computer science at City University of New York and principal investigator in the School of Computing and Information Systems at the University of Melbourne. Bernd Heidergott is professor of stochastic optimization in the Department of Operations Analytics at the School of Business and Economics and research fellow at Tinbergen Institute, Amsterdam.

What People are Saying About This

From the Publisher

“The monograph represents a substantial scholarly contribution, and no other book out there covers all the material that this one does, so I believe researchers in the area (stochastic modeling, analysis, and optimization) will find it an invaluable resource. The authors are uniquely qualified to write such a book, not only because of their own backgrounds and expertise, but also because they've tested the material already in the classroom.”—Michael Fu, University of Maryland

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