ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Regularization (mathematics)

Regularization is a way to make sure that a mathematical problem doesn't have too many solutions (or is "over-fit") and that you get the best solution for the problem. It is like having an extra step in the math problem that limits the number of possible solutions. For example, imagine you were trying to find the best way to build a house. With regularization, you would add in a few extra rules, like the house must have square corners or all the windows must be the same size. This would limit the possible solutions and help you find the best way to build the house.