Sri Venkateswaraa College of Technology – SVCT, Vadakal Village - 602105

Step-by-Step Roadmap for AI & DS (Artificial Intelligence & Data Science)

Goal 1: Placement in AI & DS Roles

Step 1: How to Equip

1. Core Knowledge:
o Develop a strong understanding of Machine Learning (ML), Deep Learning, Natural
Language Processing (NLP), and Data Science concepts.
o Ensure knowledge of supervised/unsupervised learning, model evaluation (accuracy,
precision, recall), and hyperparameter tuning.
2. Hands-on Projects:
o Work on 2–3 key data science projects:
 Sentiment analysis using NLP.
 Predictive modeling for a business case.
 Image classification using deep learning.
o Publish these projects on GitHub or participate in Kaggle competitions for visibility.
3. Technical Skills:
o Programming: Python, R (industry-standard languages).
o Libraries: TensorFlow, Keras, PyTorch, Scikit-Learn for machine learning and deep
learning.
o Tools: Jupyter Notebook, SQL, Power BI/Tableau for data analysis and visualization.

Step 2: Current Job Roles

 Data Scientist: Handling and interpreting large data sets to derive insights and make data-driven
decisions.
 Machine Learning Engineer: Creating and deploying machine learning models and automated
systems.
 AI Engineer/Researcher: Developing intelligent systems in NLP, computer vision, or automation.
 Big Data Engineer: Working on data infrastructure using platforms like Hadoop and Spark.
 Business Intelligence Developer: Using data visualization and analysis tools (Tableau, Power BI)
to guide business decisions.

Step 3: Industries

 IT Services: Companies like TCS, Infosys, Wipro seek AI/DS professionals for automation, data
analysis, and enterprise AI solutions.
 E-commerce: Companies such as Amazon, Flipkart use AI for personalization, customer data
insights, and logistics optimization.

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 Fintech: Paytm, Razorpay hire for AI-driven fraud detection, financial analytics, and customer
data management.
 Healthcare: AI in MedTech firms and health startups for diagnostics, AI-based treatment plans,
and data analysis.
 AI/ML Research Firms: Companies and startups focused on AI research (autonomous systems,
NLP, AI tools).
 Consulting: Firms like Deloitte, PwC hire AI professionals to provide AI-powered consulting
solutions to businesses.

Step 4: What to Prepare

1. Portfolio:
o Showcase hands-on projects on GitHub, highlighting your contributions and expertise.
o Participate in Kaggle competitions to rank globally and gain practical exposure.
o Include descriptions, methods, and performance metrics in your projects.
2. Interview Prep:
o Master Data Structures & Algorithms (especially tree, graph algorithms, dynamic
programming).
o Study key ML concepts:
 Bias-variance tradeoff
 Overfitting/underfitting
 Decision trees, logistic regression, and neural networks.
o Prepare for coding interviews by practicing on platforms like LeetCode or HackerRank.
3. Aptitude:
o Practice quantitative aptitude and logical reasoning using placement prep platforms like
IndiaBix and PrepInsta.

Step 5: How to Prepare (Roadmap)

1. Months 1–2:
o Master ML fundamentals: Study key algorithms and work on one data project (e.g.,
image recognition, NLP).
o Coding Prep: Practice coding on LeetCode or HackerRank for time efficiency and
algorithm mastery.
2. Months 3–4:
o Learn Deep Learning: Focus on deep learning with TensorFlow/Keras, and apply it in
projects (e.g., neural networks for image classification).
o Portfolio Development: Fine-tune your GitHub portfolio and contribute to open-source
AI/ML projects.
3. Months 5–6:
o Mock Interviews: Participate in mock technical interviews and refine your
communication of ML concepts.
o Revise Core Concepts: Ensure your data structures, algorithms, and ML theory are sharp
before interview season.
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 Sri Venkateswaraa College of Technology – SVCT, Vadakal Village - 602105

Step 6: Shortcut Sheet for Placements

 Key Python libraries: NumPy, Pandas, Scikit-Learn.

 ML models: Logistic regression, Decision trees, Random forests, Neural networks.
 Common Interview Questions:
o Explain bias-variance tradeoff.
o How do you prevent overfitting?
o Discuss decision tree model workings.

Goal 2: Higher Education (MS in AI/DS)

Step 1: How to Equip

1. Research Skills:
o Develop strong research skills in AI/ML algorithms and real-world applications like NLP,
computer vision, and deep learning.
o Involvement in research papers or AI-related projects will significantly improve your
admission prospects.
2. Academic Prep:
o Maintain a strong CGPA (3.0+ or 8/10) to meet eligibility criteria for top programs.
o Prepare for GRE (target 320+), TOEFL/IELTS for English proficiency.
3. Projects:
o Showcase projects demonstrating a range of AI tools and techniques, such as predictive
analytics, reinforcement learning, or deep learning models.

Step 2: Top Universities Abroad

 Stanford University (USA): MS in Computer Science (AI specialization).

 Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT, USA): PhD in AI, MS in Data Science.
 Carnegie Mellon University (USA): MS in Machine Learning.
 University of Toronto (Canada): MS in Data Science & Analytics.
 ETH Zurich (Switzerland): MS in Data Science/AI.

Step 3: Top Universities in India

 IIT Madras: M.Tech in Data Science & AI.

 IIT Bombay: M.Tech in Computer Science (AI specialization).
 IISc Bangalore: M.Tech in AI & Machine Learning.
 IIIT Hyderabad: M.Tech in AI & Machine Learning.

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 Sri Venkateswaraa College of Technology – SVCT, Vadakal Village - 602105

 IIT Kharagpur: M.Tech in Data Science & Engineering.

Step 4: Eligibility & Process

1. Abroad:
o Standardized Exams: GRE, TOEFL/IELTS (for English proficiency).
o Procedure: Online applications via university portals, submission of academic records,
SOP, LORs, and test scores.
o Eligibility: Bachelor's degree in a relevant field (CSE, IT, AI, DS) with a strong academic
record (GPA 3.0+).
2. India:
o GATE exam: Required for M.Tech admissions.
o Eligibility: B.E./B.Tech in CSE, IT, AI, or Data Science with a GATE score (500+ for top
institutes).
o Procedure: Register and qualify for GATE, apply via COAP or individual university
portals.

Step 5: What to Prepare

1. Statement of Purpose (SOP):

o Write a compelling SOP outlining your interest in AI/DS, projects you've worked on, and
your future research goals.
2. Letters of Recommendation (LORs):
o Secure 2–3 LORs from professors or industry professionals who can speak to your
academic and project-based work.
3. Test Prep:
o For GRE, focus on the quantitative section (geometry, algebra, data interpretation) and
analytical writing.
o For TOEFL/IELTS, practice fluency in listening, reading, and speaking.

Step 6: How to Prepare (Roadmap)

1. Months 1–2:
o GRE/TOEFL Prep: Focus on improving your quantitative reasoning, analytical writing,
and English language skills.
o Finalize Universities: Shortlist universities based on your goals and program
specialization (AI/ML, Data Science).
2. Months 3–4:
o Complete Application Materials: Draft SOP, gather LORs, and organize academic
transcripts.

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 Sri Venkateswaraa College of Technology – SVCT, Vadakal Village - 602105

o
Submit Applications: Apply to your target universities and upload all necessary
documents.
3. Months 5–6:
o Placement Focus: Prepare for placement interviews or internships while awaiting
admission results.

Step 7: Shortcut Sheet for Higher Education

 Key GRE Sections: Quantitative reasoning (algebra, geometry), verbal reasoning (vocabulary,
sentence correction).
 TOEFL: Listening, reading, writing, speaking (fluency and comprehension).
 Core Concepts: Regression models, decision trees, deep learning models (CNNs, RNNs).

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