A Brief Introduction to Data Preprocessing

Huiyi Wu

2025

Abstract

The contemporary digital era is characterized by an exponential growth in data volume. However, this proliferation is paradoxically met with a decline in raw data quality, with most datasets suffering from inconsistencies, missing values, and noise. This paper argues that data preprocessing is the indispensable discipline that bridges the gap between low-quality raw data, and reliable, high-performance machine learning models. Specifically, this essay will explore the multifaceted process of data preprocessing, examining its four primary stages: data cleaning, which removes inaccuracies; data integration, which harmonizes disparate data sources; data transformation, which normalizes and structures data; and data reduction, which increases storage and computational efficiency. Special emphasis will be placed on the unique challenges of preparing unstructured, non-numerical data for analysis, detailing the conversion techniques required to make them compatible with quantitative models. Ultimately, this essay demonstrates that a thorough understanding of data preprocessing is the foundational bedrock upon which all effective, data-driven insights are built.

Paper Citation

in Harvard Style

Wu H. (2025). A Brief Introduction to Data Preprocessing. In Proceedings of the 2nd International Conference on Engineering Management, Information Technology and Intelligence - Volume 1: EMITI; ISBN 978-989-758-792-4, SciTePress, pages 216-221. DOI: 10.5220/0014325400004718

in Bibtex Style

@conference{emiti25,
author={Huiyi Wu},
title={A Brief Introduction to Data Preprocessing},
booktitle={Proceedings of the 2nd International Conference on Engineering Management, Information Technology and Intelligence - Volume 1: EMITI},
year={2025},
pages={216-221},
publisher={SciTePress},
organization={INSTICC},
doi={10.5220/0014325400004718},
isbn={978-989-758-792-4},
}

in EndNote Style

TY - CONF

JO - Proceedings of the 2nd International Conference on Engineering Management, Information Technology and Intelligence - Volume 1: EMITI
TI - A Brief Introduction to Data Preprocessing
SN - 978-989-758-792-4
AU - Wu H.
PY - 2025
SP - 216
EP - 221
DO - 10.5220/0014325400004718
PB - SciTePress