Pranay Gajbhiye, a third-year computer science student, shares his experience of initially struggling with AI/ML due to the overwhelming emphasis on mastering complex math before coding. He spent months on theoretical math concepts like linear algebra and calculus, which led to burnout and a feeling of inadequacy. However, by adopting a "Build First" approach, he shifted his focus to practical coding with Python and Scikit-learn, allowing him to learn math concepts as needed to solve real problems. This hands-on method proved more effective, enabling him to build projects like a movie recommender system and a sentiment analyzer in just three weeks. He advises beginners not to be deterred by the "Math Gatekeepers" and to start coding with available resources like Kaggle datasets and Scikit-learn documentation, learning math on demand when faced with practical challenges. This approach highlights the importance of practical application in learning complex subjects like AI/ML, making the process more engaging and less intimidating.
