discretization

Discretization is a process used in data analysis where continuous data—numbers that can take any value within a range—is divided into distinct, separate categories or intervals. For example, instead of using exact ages, we might group ages into ranges like 0-18, 19-35, 36-50, and 51+. This helps simplify complex data, making it easier to analyze patterns and relationships. Discretization is often used in machine learning and statistical modeling to improve interpretability and reduce noise, especially when the detailed precision of continuous data isn't necessary for the analysis.