Linear algebra is a branch of mathematics that focuses on the study of vectors, vector spaces, and linear transformations. It provides the tools to describe and analyze systems of linear equations, which are fundamental in various fields, including computer science, engineering, and data science.

At its core, linear algebra deals with operations involving matrices and vectors. Matrices are rectangular arrays of numbers, while vectors are one-dimensional arrays. The operations performed on these structures, such as addition, multiplication, and finding determinants, are essential for solving problems in higher dimensions. Linear algebra is often referred to as the mathematics of data, as it underpins many algorithms and techniques used in machine learning and statistics ⁴.

Moreover, linear algebra has practical applications in diverse areas, including computer graphics, optimization, and signal processing. It is a foundational subject for anyone looking to delve deeper into machine learning or data analysis ⁴⁵.