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An Introduction to Double/Debiased Machine Learning

Author

Listed:
  • Achim Ahrens
  • Victor Chernozhukov
  • Christian Hansen
  • Damian Kozbur
  • Mark Schaffer
  • Thomas Wiemann

Abstract

This paper provides a practical introduction to Double/Debiased Machine Learning (DML). DML provides a general approach to performing inference about a target parameter in the presence of nuisance parameters. The aim of DML is to reduce the impact of nuisance parameter estimation on estimators of the parameter of interest. We describe DML and its two essential components: Neyman orthogonality and cross-fitting. We highlight that DML reduces functional form dependence and accommodates the use of complex data types, such as text data. We illustrate its application through three empirical examples that demonstrate DML's applicability in cross-sectional and panel settings.

Suggested Citation

  • Achim Ahrens & Victor Chernozhukov & Christian Hansen & Damian Kozbur & Mark Schaffer & Thomas Wiemann, 2025. "An Introduction to Double/Debiased Machine Learning," Papers 2504.08324, arXiv.org.
    • Handle: RePEc:arx:papers:2504.08324
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    References listed on IDEAS

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