A model is an informative representation of an object, person, system, or concept, designed to help understand, explain, predict, or communicate aspects of the original subject it represents
. Models can be physical, like a scale model of a building or a ship, or abstract, such as mathematical equations or logical structures that describe phenomena or systems
. Key characteristics of a model include:
- Mapping: A model represents something real or imagined, serving as an image or abstraction of that original
- Reduction: It includes only relevant attributes of the original, omitting unnecessary details to simplify understanding
- Pragmatism: A model is intended to function as a practical replacement for the original in specific contexts, for certain users, and purposes
Models exist in various forms and fields, such as:
- Physical models (e.g., architectural mockups, model airplanes)
- Mathematical or computational models (e.g., weather forecasting equations, flight trajectory simulations)
- Conceptual or logical models (e.g., logical relationships explaining system failures)
In statistics, a model refers to a set of variables and their predicted interactions used to explain variations in data
. Overall, a model is a simplified, purposeful representation that aids in understanding or predicting the behavior or characteristics of the original entity or system
