You’ve in all probability used the conventional distribution one or two instances too many. All of us have — It’s a real workhorse. However generally, we run into issues. As an illustration, when predicting or forecasting values, simulating information given a specific information producing course of, or after we attempt to visualise mannequin output and clarify them intuitively to non-technical stakeholders. All of the sudden, issues don’t make a lot sense: can a person actually have made -8 clicks on the banner? And even, 4.3 clicks? Each are examples of how rely information doesn’t behave.
I’ve discovered that higher encapsulating the info producing course of into my modelling has been key to having wise mannequin output. Utilizing the Poisson distribution when it was acceptable has not solely helped me convey extra significant insights to stakeholders, however it has additionally enabled me to provide extra correct error estimates, higher inference, and sound decision-making.
On this put up, my purpose is that will help you get a deep intuitive really feel for the Poisson distribution by strolling by way of instance purposes, and taking a dive into the foundations — the maths. I hope you be taught not simply the way it works, but additionally why it really works, and when to use the…