maximum likelihood

Maximum likelihood is a method used in statistics to find the most probable explanation for observed data. It involves estimating the parameters of a model—such as averages or probabilities—by choosing the values that make the observed data most likely to occur. Think of it as adjusting the model until it best "fits" the data, based on the likelihood of seeing that data under different parameter guesses. This approach helps us make informed inferences and predictions, ensuring our model aligns closely with real-world observations.