Small sample size effects in statistical pattern recognition: recommendations for practitioners

The effects of sample size on feature selection and error estimation for several types of classifiers are discussed. The focus is on the two-class problem. Classifier design in the context of small design sample size is explored. The estimation of error rates under small test sample size is given. Sample size effects in feature selection are discussed. Recommendations for the choice of learning and test sample sizes are given. In addition to surveying prior work in this area, an emphasis is placed on giving practical advice to designers and users of statistical pattern recognition systems.>