Machine Learning is a subset of artificial intelligence (AI) that focuses on the development of algorithms and statistical models that enable computers to perform specific tasks without explicit instructions. Instead of being programmed for every individual task, machine learning systems use data to learn and identify patterns, allowing them to make decisions or predictions based on new input.

Machine learning can be divided into several categories, including supervised learning, unsupervised learning, and reinforcement learning. In supervised learning, models are trained on labeled datasets, while unsupervised learning deals with finding patterns in unlabeled data. Reinforcement learning involves training algorithms based on rewards and penalties to encourage desired behaviors.

The applications of machine learning are vast and include areas such as natural language processing, image recognition, recommendation systems, and predictive analytics, among others. As machine learning continues to evolve, it plays an increasingly critical role in various industries, driving automation and data-driven decision-making.