Chapter 9: Deep Learning with PyTorch
9.3 Saving and Loading Models in PyTorch
One of the most important aspects of training deep learning models is the ability to save the trained models for later use. This is crucial because training models can take a significant amount of time, especially when dealing with massive datasets. Saving a model not only allows us to reuse the model in the future but also helps us avoid the need to retrain the model from scratch.
Saved models can be used for various purposes such as making predictions, continuing the training process, fine-tuning the models, or even starting a new training process. By reusing a trained model, we can also save computational resources and time that would be required to train a new model from scratch.
In addition, models that are saved can be shared with others, which can be beneficial for collaborative projects or when working on similar problems. The ability to save and share models is particularly useful in the context of deep learning, where models can have millions or even billions of parameters, making it impractical to train them on personal computers.
The ability to save and reuse trained models is a crucial feature in deep learning and is an essential part of the development process for any deep learning application.
9.3.1 Saving Models
In PyTorch, we can save the entire model using the torch.save() function. This function saves the model's parameters and architecture.
We can specify the file extension to save the model's state dictionary as either a .pt or a .pth file. This is useful when we only want to save the model's state dictionary, which contains information on the weights and biases of the model's layers.
Moreover, we can also load a saved model using the torch.load() function. This function loads the saved state dictionary and returns it as a Python dictionary. We can then use this dictionary to set the parameters of a PyTorch model. It's important to note that the model architecture should be the same as the one used to save the state dictionary in order for the parameters to be loaded correctly.
In summary, PyTorch provides us with convenient functions to save and load models, allowing us to easily reuse and share trained models with others.
Here's how you can do it:
# Assume model is an instance of a PyTorch neural network
torch.save(model, 'model.pth')In this code, model is the model we want to save, and 'model.pth' is the name of the file we want to save it to. The .pth extension is commonly used for PyTorch models, but you can use any extension you like.
9.3.2 Loading Models
To load a model that we've previously saved using PyTorch, we can use the torch.load() function. This function allows us to load a serialized object, which can be a model checkpoint, a dictionary of parameters, or any other serialized PyTorch object.
Once we've loaded the model, we can use it for inference or further training. For example, we could fine-tune the model on a new dataset, or use it to generate predictions on a test set. Additionally, we could use the model as a starting point for a new model, by initializing some of the layers with the pre-trained weights.
Overall, torch.load() is an essential function for working with pre-trained models in PyTorch, allowing us to easily load and manipulate serialized objects.
Here's how:
# Load the model
model = torch.load('model.pth')In this code, 'model.pth' is the name of the file we want to load the model from. The loaded model will have the same architecture and parameters as the model when it was saved.
9.3.3 Saving and Loading Only the Model Parameters
Sometimes, we might want to save only the model parameters (the weights and biases), not the entire model. This can be useful when we want to load the parameters into a different model architecture. In fact, this is a common practice in deep learning, where pre-trained models with saved parameters are often used as building blocks for new models.
By saving only the parameters, we can significantly reduce the storage space required to save the model. It allows us to separate the model architecture from the learned parameters, making it easier to experiment with different architectures without having to retrain the entire model from scratch.
This can save a lot of time and computational resources. Furthermore, it allows us to share the learned parameters with others, enabling collaboration and reproducibility of results. Overall, saving only the model parameters provides a lot of benefits and is an important technique to know in deep learning.
To save only the parameters, we can use the state_dict() function:
# Save only the model parameters
torch.save(model.state_dict(), 'params.pth')And to load the parameters into a model, we first need to create an instance of the model architecture, and then use the load_state_dict() function:
# Assume model is an instance of the same architecture as the saved parameters
model.load_state_dict(torch.load('params.pth'))Remember, when loading the parameters, the model architecture must be the same as the architecture of the model when the parameters were saved.
9.3.4 Saving and Loading Models During Training
When training deep learning models, especially on large datasets, the training process can take a long time, sometimes even days or weeks. In such cases, it's a good practice to save the model periodically during training. This way, if something goes wrong (like a power outage or a system crash), you won't lose all your progress. You can simply load the last saved model and continue training from there.
Saving the model at regular intervals enables you to keep track of the performance of the model over time. You can compare the model's performance at different stages of training and make adjustments to the hyperparameters accordingly. Additionally, saving the model allows you to reuse the trained model for other tasks, without having to start the training process from scratch.
In summary, saving the model periodically during training not only helps you avoid losing progress in case of system failures, but also enables you to analyze the performance of the model over time, make adjustments to the hyperparameters, and reuse the trained model for other tasks.
Here's how you can save the model every n epochs during training:
n = 10 # Save the model every 10 epochs
for epoch in range(num_epochs):
# Training code here...
# Save the model every n epochs
if epoch % n == 0:
torch.save(model, f'model_{epoch}.pth')In this code, num_epochs is the total number of epochs for training, and epoch is the current epoch. The model is saved every n epochs, and the epoch number is included in the filename.
Output:
The output of the code will be a series of .pth files, each containing the model weights after n epochs. The following is an example of the output of the code:
model_0.pth
model_10.pth
model_20.pth
...
model_90.pthThe .pth files can be loaded into PyTorch to continue training the model, or to use the model for inference.
Here is a more detailed explanation of the code:
n = 10defines the number of epochs between saves.for epoch in range(num_epochs)loops over the number of epochs.# Training code here...contains the training code.if epoch % n == 0:checks if the current epoch is divisible byn.torch.save(model, f'model_{epoch}.pth')saves the model weights to a file namedmodel_epoch.pth.
When you want to continue training from a saved model, you can load the model and continue the training loop from the next epoch:
# Load the model
model = torch.load('model_10.pth')
# Continue training from epoch 11
for epoch in range(11, num_epochs):
# Training code here...Output:
The output of the code will be the model continuing to train from epoch 11. The following is an example of the output of the code:
Epoch [11/10], Step [100/60000], Loss: 2.123456
Epoch [11/10], Step [200/60000], Loss: 2.012345
...
Epoch [20/10], Step [60000/60000], Loss: 0.000012The model will continue to train from epoch 11 because the model variable is loaded with the weights from the model_10.pth file. The # Training code here... block will then train the model for the remaining num_epochs - 10 epochs.
Here is a more detailed explanation of the code:
model = torch.load('model_10.pth')loads the model weights from themodel_10.pthfile.for epoch in range(11, num_epochs):loops over the remaining epochs.# Training code here...contains the training code.
Remember, saving and loading models during training is a good practice that can save you a lot of time and trouble. Keep up the fantastic work! You're doing a great job exploring the world of deep learning with PyTorch.
9.3.5 Best Practices for Saving and Loading Models
When working with PyTorch and other deep learning frameworks, there are a few best practices you should follow when saving and loading models:
- Save the model's state_dict, not the entire model: While you can save the entire model in PyTorch, it's generally recommended to only save the model's
state_dict. This is because thestate_dictonly includes the model parameters, which are the most essential part of the model. Saving the entire model also saves the architecture, but this can lead to problems if the architecture changes or if the model needs to be loaded in a different environment. - Use a .pth or .pt extension for PyTorch model files: While you can use any file extension you like, it's common to use the .pth or .pt extension for PyTorch model files. This makes it clear that the file is a PyTorch model.
- Save and load on the same device: When saving and loading models, make sure to do it on the same device (CPU or GPU). If you need to load a model on a different device, you can use the
map_locationargument in thetorch.load()function. - Save periodically during training: As mentioned earlier, it's a good practice to save your model periodically during training. This way, if something goes wrong, you can resume training from the last saved model instead of starting from scratch.
- Keep track of training information: When saving your model, it can be helpful to also save some information about the training process, such as the number of epochs, the current learning rate, and the performance on the validation set. This can help you keep track of the training process and make it easier to resume training later.
Here's an example of how you can save a model's state_dict along with some training information:
# Assume model is an instance of a PyTorch neural network
# Assume optimizer is an instance of a PyTorch optimizer
# Assume epoch is the current epoch number
# Assume loss is the loss on the validation set
torch.save({
'epoch': epoch,
'model_state_dict': model.state_dict(),
'optimizer_state_dict': optimizer.state_dict(),
'loss': loss,
}, 'checkpoint.pth')And here's how you can load the state_dict and the training information:
# Load the checkpoint
checkpoint = torch.load('checkpoint.pth')
# Load the model and optimizer state_dict
model.load_state_dict(checkpoint['model_state_dict'])
optimizer.load_state_dict(checkpoint['optimizer_state_dict'])
# Load the other training information
epoch = checkpoint['epoch']
loss = checkpoint['loss']
In this section, we've taken a deep dive into the process of saving and loading models in PyTorch. This is a crucial skill for any machine learning practitioner, as it allows us to preserve our models for future use, share them with others, and pick up where we left off in case of interruptions during training.
We've learned how to save and load the entire model as well as just the state_dict, which contains the model's learned parameters. We've also discussed the importance of saving models periodically during training and the best practices for doing so. Furthermore, we've seen how to save and load models on the same device and the common file extensions used for PyTorch models.
Remember, the key to mastering these skills is practice. So, don't hesitate to experiment with saving and loading models as you continue your journey in deep learning with PyTorch. Keep up the fantastic work, and happy learning!
9.3 Saving and Loading Models in PyTorch
One of the most important aspects of training deep learning models is the ability to save the trained models for later use. This is crucial because training models can take a significant amount of time, especially when dealing with massive datasets. Saving a model not only allows us to reuse the model in the future but also helps us avoid the need to retrain the model from scratch.
Saved models can be used for various purposes such as making predictions, continuing the training process, fine-tuning the models, or even starting a new training process. By reusing a trained model, we can also save computational resources and time that would be required to train a new model from scratch.
In addition, models that are saved can be shared with others, which can be beneficial for collaborative projects or when working on similar problems. The ability to save and share models is particularly useful in the context of deep learning, where models can have millions or even billions of parameters, making it impractical to train them on personal computers.
The ability to save and reuse trained models is a crucial feature in deep learning and is an essential part of the development process for any deep learning application.
9.3.1 Saving Models
In PyTorch, we can save the entire model using the torch.save() function. This function saves the model's parameters and architecture.
We can specify the file extension to save the model's state dictionary as either a .pt or a .pth file. This is useful when we only want to save the model's state dictionary, which contains information on the weights and biases of the model's layers.
Moreover, we can also load a saved model using the torch.load() function. This function loads the saved state dictionary and returns it as a Python dictionary. We can then use this dictionary to set the parameters of a PyTorch model. It's important to note that the model architecture should be the same as the one used to save the state dictionary in order for the parameters to be loaded correctly.
In summary, PyTorch provides us with convenient functions to save and load models, allowing us to easily reuse and share trained models with others.
Here's how you can do it:
# Assume model is an instance of a PyTorch neural network
torch.save(model, 'model.pth')In this code, model is the model we want to save, and 'model.pth' is the name of the file we want to save it to. The .pth extension is commonly used for PyTorch models, but you can use any extension you like.
9.3.2 Loading Models
To load a model that we've previously saved using PyTorch, we can use the torch.load() function. This function allows us to load a serialized object, which can be a model checkpoint, a dictionary of parameters, or any other serialized PyTorch object.
Once we've loaded the model, we can use it for inference or further training. For example, we could fine-tune the model on a new dataset, or use it to generate predictions on a test set. Additionally, we could use the model as a starting point for a new model, by initializing some of the layers with the pre-trained weights.
Overall, torch.load() is an essential function for working with pre-trained models in PyTorch, allowing us to easily load and manipulate serialized objects.
Here's how:
# Load the model
model = torch.load('model.pth')In this code, 'model.pth' is the name of the file we want to load the model from. The loaded model will have the same architecture and parameters as the model when it was saved.
9.3.3 Saving and Loading Only the Model Parameters
Sometimes, we might want to save only the model parameters (the weights and biases), not the entire model. This can be useful when we want to load the parameters into a different model architecture. In fact, this is a common practice in deep learning, where pre-trained models with saved parameters are often used as building blocks for new models.
By saving only the parameters, we can significantly reduce the storage space required to save the model. It allows us to separate the model architecture from the learned parameters, making it easier to experiment with different architectures without having to retrain the entire model from scratch.
This can save a lot of time and computational resources. Furthermore, it allows us to share the learned parameters with others, enabling collaboration and reproducibility of results. Overall, saving only the model parameters provides a lot of benefits and is an important technique to know in deep learning.
To save only the parameters, we can use the state_dict() function:
# Save only the model parameters
torch.save(model.state_dict(), 'params.pth')And to load the parameters into a model, we first need to create an instance of the model architecture, and then use the load_state_dict() function:
# Assume model is an instance of the same architecture as the saved parameters
model.load_state_dict(torch.load('params.pth'))Remember, when loading the parameters, the model architecture must be the same as the architecture of the model when the parameters were saved.
9.3.4 Saving and Loading Models During Training
When training deep learning models, especially on large datasets, the training process can take a long time, sometimes even days or weeks. In such cases, it's a good practice to save the model periodically during training. This way, if something goes wrong (like a power outage or a system crash), you won't lose all your progress. You can simply load the last saved model and continue training from there.
Saving the model at regular intervals enables you to keep track of the performance of the model over time. You can compare the model's performance at different stages of training and make adjustments to the hyperparameters accordingly. Additionally, saving the model allows you to reuse the trained model for other tasks, without having to start the training process from scratch.
In summary, saving the model periodically during training not only helps you avoid losing progress in case of system failures, but also enables you to analyze the performance of the model over time, make adjustments to the hyperparameters, and reuse the trained model for other tasks.
Here's how you can save the model every n epochs during training:
n = 10 # Save the model every 10 epochs
for epoch in range(num_epochs):
# Training code here...
# Save the model every n epochs
if epoch % n == 0:
torch.save(model, f'model_{epoch}.pth')In this code, num_epochs is the total number of epochs for training, and epoch is the current epoch. The model is saved every n epochs, and the epoch number is included in the filename.
Output:
The output of the code will be a series of .pth files, each containing the model weights after n epochs. The following is an example of the output of the code:
model_0.pth
model_10.pth
model_20.pth
...
model_90.pthThe .pth files can be loaded into PyTorch to continue training the model, or to use the model for inference.
Here is a more detailed explanation of the code:
n = 10defines the number of epochs between saves.for epoch in range(num_epochs)loops over the number of epochs.# Training code here...contains the training code.if epoch % n == 0:checks if the current epoch is divisible byn.torch.save(model, f'model_{epoch}.pth')saves the model weights to a file namedmodel_epoch.pth.
When you want to continue training from a saved model, you can load the model and continue the training loop from the next epoch:
# Load the model
model = torch.load('model_10.pth')
# Continue training from epoch 11
for epoch in range(11, num_epochs):
# Training code here...Output:
The output of the code will be the model continuing to train from epoch 11. The following is an example of the output of the code:
Epoch [11/10], Step [100/60000], Loss: 2.123456
Epoch [11/10], Step [200/60000], Loss: 2.012345
...
Epoch [20/10], Step [60000/60000], Loss: 0.000012The model will continue to train from epoch 11 because the model variable is loaded with the weights from the model_10.pth file. The # Training code here... block will then train the model for the remaining num_epochs - 10 epochs.
Here is a more detailed explanation of the code:
model = torch.load('model_10.pth')loads the model weights from themodel_10.pthfile.for epoch in range(11, num_epochs):loops over the remaining epochs.# Training code here...contains the training code.
Remember, saving and loading models during training is a good practice that can save you a lot of time and trouble. Keep up the fantastic work! You're doing a great job exploring the world of deep learning with PyTorch.
9.3.5 Best Practices for Saving and Loading Models
When working with PyTorch and other deep learning frameworks, there are a few best practices you should follow when saving and loading models:
- Save the model's state_dict, not the entire model: While you can save the entire model in PyTorch, it's generally recommended to only save the model's
state_dict. This is because thestate_dictonly includes the model parameters, which are the most essential part of the model. Saving the entire model also saves the architecture, but this can lead to problems if the architecture changes or if the model needs to be loaded in a different environment. - Use a .pth or .pt extension for PyTorch model files: While you can use any file extension you like, it's common to use the .pth or .pt extension for PyTorch model files. This makes it clear that the file is a PyTorch model.
- Save and load on the same device: When saving and loading models, make sure to do it on the same device (CPU or GPU). If you need to load a model on a different device, you can use the
map_locationargument in thetorch.load()function. - Save periodically during training: As mentioned earlier, it's a good practice to save your model periodically during training. This way, if something goes wrong, you can resume training from the last saved model instead of starting from scratch.
- Keep track of training information: When saving your model, it can be helpful to also save some information about the training process, such as the number of epochs, the current learning rate, and the performance on the validation set. This can help you keep track of the training process and make it easier to resume training later.
Here's an example of how you can save a model's state_dict along with some training information:
# Assume model is an instance of a PyTorch neural network
# Assume optimizer is an instance of a PyTorch optimizer
# Assume epoch is the current epoch number
# Assume loss is the loss on the validation set
torch.save({
'epoch': epoch,
'model_state_dict': model.state_dict(),
'optimizer_state_dict': optimizer.state_dict(),
'loss': loss,
}, 'checkpoint.pth')And here's how you can load the state_dict and the training information:
# Load the checkpoint
checkpoint = torch.load('checkpoint.pth')
# Load the model and optimizer state_dict
model.load_state_dict(checkpoint['model_state_dict'])
optimizer.load_state_dict(checkpoint['optimizer_state_dict'])
# Load the other training information
epoch = checkpoint['epoch']
loss = checkpoint['loss']
In this section, we've taken a deep dive into the process of saving and loading models in PyTorch. This is a crucial skill for any machine learning practitioner, as it allows us to preserve our models for future use, share them with others, and pick up where we left off in case of interruptions during training.
We've learned how to save and load the entire model as well as just the state_dict, which contains the model's learned parameters. We've also discussed the importance of saving models periodically during training and the best practices for doing so. Furthermore, we've seen how to save and load models on the same device and the common file extensions used for PyTorch models.
Remember, the key to mastering these skills is practice. So, don't hesitate to experiment with saving and loading models as you continue your journey in deep learning with PyTorch. Keep up the fantastic work, and happy learning!
9.3 Saving and Loading Models in PyTorch
One of the most important aspects of training deep learning models is the ability to save the trained models for later use. This is crucial because training models can take a significant amount of time, especially when dealing with massive datasets. Saving a model not only allows us to reuse the model in the future but also helps us avoid the need to retrain the model from scratch.
Saved models can be used for various purposes such as making predictions, continuing the training process, fine-tuning the models, or even starting a new training process. By reusing a trained model, we can also save computational resources and time that would be required to train a new model from scratch.
In addition, models that are saved can be shared with others, which can be beneficial for collaborative projects or when working on similar problems. The ability to save and share models is particularly useful in the context of deep learning, where models can have millions or even billions of parameters, making it impractical to train them on personal computers.
The ability to save and reuse trained models is a crucial feature in deep learning and is an essential part of the development process for any deep learning application.
9.3.1 Saving Models
In PyTorch, we can save the entire model using the torch.save() function. This function saves the model's parameters and architecture.
We can specify the file extension to save the model's state dictionary as either a .pt or a .pth file. This is useful when we only want to save the model's state dictionary, which contains information on the weights and biases of the model's layers.
Moreover, we can also load a saved model using the torch.load() function. This function loads the saved state dictionary and returns it as a Python dictionary. We can then use this dictionary to set the parameters of a PyTorch model. It's important to note that the model architecture should be the same as the one used to save the state dictionary in order for the parameters to be loaded correctly.
In summary, PyTorch provides us with convenient functions to save and load models, allowing us to easily reuse and share trained models with others.
Here's how you can do it:
# Assume model is an instance of a PyTorch neural network
torch.save(model, 'model.pth')In this code, model is the model we want to save, and 'model.pth' is the name of the file we want to save it to. The .pth extension is commonly used for PyTorch models, but you can use any extension you like.
9.3.2 Loading Models
To load a model that we've previously saved using PyTorch, we can use the torch.load() function. This function allows us to load a serialized object, which can be a model checkpoint, a dictionary of parameters, or any other serialized PyTorch object.
Once we've loaded the model, we can use it for inference or further training. For example, we could fine-tune the model on a new dataset, or use it to generate predictions on a test set. Additionally, we could use the model as a starting point for a new model, by initializing some of the layers with the pre-trained weights.
Overall, torch.load() is an essential function for working with pre-trained models in PyTorch, allowing us to easily load and manipulate serialized objects.
Here's how:
# Load the model
model = torch.load('model.pth')In this code, 'model.pth' is the name of the file we want to load the model from. The loaded model will have the same architecture and parameters as the model when it was saved.
9.3.3 Saving and Loading Only the Model Parameters
Sometimes, we might want to save only the model parameters (the weights and biases), not the entire model. This can be useful when we want to load the parameters into a different model architecture. In fact, this is a common practice in deep learning, where pre-trained models with saved parameters are often used as building blocks for new models.
By saving only the parameters, we can significantly reduce the storage space required to save the model. It allows us to separate the model architecture from the learned parameters, making it easier to experiment with different architectures without having to retrain the entire model from scratch.
This can save a lot of time and computational resources. Furthermore, it allows us to share the learned parameters with others, enabling collaboration and reproducibility of results. Overall, saving only the model parameters provides a lot of benefits and is an important technique to know in deep learning.
To save only the parameters, we can use the state_dict() function:
# Save only the model parameters
torch.save(model.state_dict(), 'params.pth')And to load the parameters into a model, we first need to create an instance of the model architecture, and then use the load_state_dict() function:
# Assume model is an instance of the same architecture as the saved parameters
model.load_state_dict(torch.load('params.pth'))Remember, when loading the parameters, the model architecture must be the same as the architecture of the model when the parameters were saved.
9.3.4 Saving and Loading Models During Training
When training deep learning models, especially on large datasets, the training process can take a long time, sometimes even days or weeks. In such cases, it's a good practice to save the model periodically during training. This way, if something goes wrong (like a power outage or a system crash), you won't lose all your progress. You can simply load the last saved model and continue training from there.
Saving the model at regular intervals enables you to keep track of the performance of the model over time. You can compare the model's performance at different stages of training and make adjustments to the hyperparameters accordingly. Additionally, saving the model allows you to reuse the trained model for other tasks, without having to start the training process from scratch.
In summary, saving the model periodically during training not only helps you avoid losing progress in case of system failures, but also enables you to analyze the performance of the model over time, make adjustments to the hyperparameters, and reuse the trained model for other tasks.
Here's how you can save the model every n epochs during training:
n = 10 # Save the model every 10 epochs
for epoch in range(num_epochs):
# Training code here...
# Save the model every n epochs
if epoch % n == 0:
torch.save(model, f'model_{epoch}.pth')In this code, num_epochs is the total number of epochs for training, and epoch is the current epoch. The model is saved every n epochs, and the epoch number is included in the filename.
Output:
The output of the code will be a series of .pth files, each containing the model weights after n epochs. The following is an example of the output of the code:
model_0.pth
model_10.pth
model_20.pth
...
model_90.pthThe .pth files can be loaded into PyTorch to continue training the model, or to use the model for inference.
Here is a more detailed explanation of the code:
n = 10defines the number of epochs between saves.for epoch in range(num_epochs)loops over the number of epochs.# Training code here...contains the training code.if epoch % n == 0:checks if the current epoch is divisible byn.torch.save(model, f'model_{epoch}.pth')saves the model weights to a file namedmodel_epoch.pth.
When you want to continue training from a saved model, you can load the model and continue the training loop from the next epoch:
# Load the model
model = torch.load('model_10.pth')
# Continue training from epoch 11
for epoch in range(11, num_epochs):
# Training code here...Output:
The output of the code will be the model continuing to train from epoch 11. The following is an example of the output of the code:
Epoch [11/10], Step [100/60000], Loss: 2.123456
Epoch [11/10], Step [200/60000], Loss: 2.012345
...
Epoch [20/10], Step [60000/60000], Loss: 0.000012The model will continue to train from epoch 11 because the model variable is loaded with the weights from the model_10.pth file. The # Training code here... block will then train the model for the remaining num_epochs - 10 epochs.
Here is a more detailed explanation of the code:
model = torch.load('model_10.pth')loads the model weights from themodel_10.pthfile.for epoch in range(11, num_epochs):loops over the remaining epochs.# Training code here...contains the training code.
Remember, saving and loading models during training is a good practice that can save you a lot of time and trouble. Keep up the fantastic work! You're doing a great job exploring the world of deep learning with PyTorch.
9.3.5 Best Practices for Saving and Loading Models
When working with PyTorch and other deep learning frameworks, there are a few best practices you should follow when saving and loading models:
- Save the model's state_dict, not the entire model: While you can save the entire model in PyTorch, it's generally recommended to only save the model's
state_dict. This is because thestate_dictonly includes the model parameters, which are the most essential part of the model. Saving the entire model also saves the architecture, but this can lead to problems if the architecture changes or if the model needs to be loaded in a different environment. - Use a .pth or .pt extension for PyTorch model files: While you can use any file extension you like, it's common to use the .pth or .pt extension for PyTorch model files. This makes it clear that the file is a PyTorch model.
- Save and load on the same device: When saving and loading models, make sure to do it on the same device (CPU or GPU). If you need to load a model on a different device, you can use the
map_locationargument in thetorch.load()function. - Save periodically during training: As mentioned earlier, it's a good practice to save your model periodically during training. This way, if something goes wrong, you can resume training from the last saved model instead of starting from scratch.
- Keep track of training information: When saving your model, it can be helpful to also save some information about the training process, such as the number of epochs, the current learning rate, and the performance on the validation set. This can help you keep track of the training process and make it easier to resume training later.
Here's an example of how you can save a model's state_dict along with some training information:
# Assume model is an instance of a PyTorch neural network
# Assume optimizer is an instance of a PyTorch optimizer
# Assume epoch is the current epoch number
# Assume loss is the loss on the validation set
torch.save({
'epoch': epoch,
'model_state_dict': model.state_dict(),
'optimizer_state_dict': optimizer.state_dict(),
'loss': loss,
}, 'checkpoint.pth')And here's how you can load the state_dict and the training information:
# Load the checkpoint
checkpoint = torch.load('checkpoint.pth')
# Load the model and optimizer state_dict
model.load_state_dict(checkpoint['model_state_dict'])
optimizer.load_state_dict(checkpoint['optimizer_state_dict'])
# Load the other training information
epoch = checkpoint['epoch']
loss = checkpoint['loss']
In this section, we've taken a deep dive into the process of saving and loading models in PyTorch. This is a crucial skill for any machine learning practitioner, as it allows us to preserve our models for future use, share them with others, and pick up where we left off in case of interruptions during training.
We've learned how to save and load the entire model as well as just the state_dict, which contains the model's learned parameters. We've also discussed the importance of saving models periodically during training and the best practices for doing so. Furthermore, we've seen how to save and load models on the same device and the common file extensions used for PyTorch models.
Remember, the key to mastering these skills is practice. So, don't hesitate to experiment with saving and loading models as you continue your journey in deep learning with PyTorch. Keep up the fantastic work, and happy learning!
9.3 Saving and Loading Models in PyTorch
One of the most important aspects of training deep learning models is the ability to save the trained models for later use. This is crucial because training models can take a significant amount of time, especially when dealing with massive datasets. Saving a model not only allows us to reuse the model in the future but also helps us avoid the need to retrain the model from scratch.
Saved models can be used for various purposes such as making predictions, continuing the training process, fine-tuning the models, or even starting a new training process. By reusing a trained model, we can also save computational resources and time that would be required to train a new model from scratch.
In addition, models that are saved can be shared with others, which can be beneficial for collaborative projects or when working on similar problems. The ability to save and share models is particularly useful in the context of deep learning, where models can have millions or even billions of parameters, making it impractical to train them on personal computers.
The ability to save and reuse trained models is a crucial feature in deep learning and is an essential part of the development process for any deep learning application.
9.3.1 Saving Models
In PyTorch, we can save the entire model using the torch.save() function. This function saves the model's parameters and architecture.
We can specify the file extension to save the model's state dictionary as either a .pt or a .pth file. This is useful when we only want to save the model's state dictionary, which contains information on the weights and biases of the model's layers.
Moreover, we can also load a saved model using the torch.load() function. This function loads the saved state dictionary and returns it as a Python dictionary. We can then use this dictionary to set the parameters of a PyTorch model. It's important to note that the model architecture should be the same as the one used to save the state dictionary in order for the parameters to be loaded correctly.
In summary, PyTorch provides us with convenient functions to save and load models, allowing us to easily reuse and share trained models with others.
Here's how you can do it:
# Assume model is an instance of a PyTorch neural network
torch.save(model, 'model.pth')In this code, model is the model we want to save, and 'model.pth' is the name of the file we want to save it to. The .pth extension is commonly used for PyTorch models, but you can use any extension you like.
9.3.2 Loading Models
To load a model that we've previously saved using PyTorch, we can use the torch.load() function. This function allows us to load a serialized object, which can be a model checkpoint, a dictionary of parameters, or any other serialized PyTorch object.
Once we've loaded the model, we can use it for inference or further training. For example, we could fine-tune the model on a new dataset, or use it to generate predictions on a test set. Additionally, we could use the model as a starting point for a new model, by initializing some of the layers with the pre-trained weights.
Overall, torch.load() is an essential function for working with pre-trained models in PyTorch, allowing us to easily load and manipulate serialized objects.
Here's how:
# Load the model
model = torch.load('model.pth')In this code, 'model.pth' is the name of the file we want to load the model from. The loaded model will have the same architecture and parameters as the model when it was saved.
9.3.3 Saving and Loading Only the Model Parameters
Sometimes, we might want to save only the model parameters (the weights and biases), not the entire model. This can be useful when we want to load the parameters into a different model architecture. In fact, this is a common practice in deep learning, where pre-trained models with saved parameters are often used as building blocks for new models.
By saving only the parameters, we can significantly reduce the storage space required to save the model. It allows us to separate the model architecture from the learned parameters, making it easier to experiment with different architectures without having to retrain the entire model from scratch.
This can save a lot of time and computational resources. Furthermore, it allows us to share the learned parameters with others, enabling collaboration and reproducibility of results. Overall, saving only the model parameters provides a lot of benefits and is an important technique to know in deep learning.
To save only the parameters, we can use the state_dict() function:
# Save only the model parameters
torch.save(model.state_dict(), 'params.pth')And to load the parameters into a model, we first need to create an instance of the model architecture, and then use the load_state_dict() function:
# Assume model is an instance of the same architecture as the saved parameters
model.load_state_dict(torch.load('params.pth'))Remember, when loading the parameters, the model architecture must be the same as the architecture of the model when the parameters were saved.
9.3.4 Saving and Loading Models During Training
When training deep learning models, especially on large datasets, the training process can take a long time, sometimes even days or weeks. In such cases, it's a good practice to save the model periodically during training. This way, if something goes wrong (like a power outage or a system crash), you won't lose all your progress. You can simply load the last saved model and continue training from there.
Saving the model at regular intervals enables you to keep track of the performance of the model over time. You can compare the model's performance at different stages of training and make adjustments to the hyperparameters accordingly. Additionally, saving the model allows you to reuse the trained model for other tasks, without having to start the training process from scratch.
In summary, saving the model periodically during training not only helps you avoid losing progress in case of system failures, but also enables you to analyze the performance of the model over time, make adjustments to the hyperparameters, and reuse the trained model for other tasks.
Here's how you can save the model every n epochs during training:
n = 10 # Save the model every 10 epochs
for epoch in range(num_epochs):
# Training code here...
# Save the model every n epochs
if epoch % n == 0:
torch.save(model, f'model_{epoch}.pth')In this code, num_epochs is the total number of epochs for training, and epoch is the current epoch. The model is saved every n epochs, and the epoch number is included in the filename.
Output:
The output of the code will be a series of .pth files, each containing the model weights after n epochs. The following is an example of the output of the code:
model_0.pth
model_10.pth
model_20.pth
...
model_90.pthThe .pth files can be loaded into PyTorch to continue training the model, or to use the model for inference.
Here is a more detailed explanation of the code:
n = 10defines the number of epochs between saves.for epoch in range(num_epochs)loops over the number of epochs.# Training code here...contains the training code.if epoch % n == 0:checks if the current epoch is divisible byn.torch.save(model, f'model_{epoch}.pth')saves the model weights to a file namedmodel_epoch.pth.
When you want to continue training from a saved model, you can load the model and continue the training loop from the next epoch:
# Load the model
model = torch.load('model_10.pth')
# Continue training from epoch 11
for epoch in range(11, num_epochs):
# Training code here...Output:
The output of the code will be the model continuing to train from epoch 11. The following is an example of the output of the code:
Epoch [11/10], Step [100/60000], Loss: 2.123456
Epoch [11/10], Step [200/60000], Loss: 2.012345
...
Epoch [20/10], Step [60000/60000], Loss: 0.000012The model will continue to train from epoch 11 because the model variable is loaded with the weights from the model_10.pth file. The # Training code here... block will then train the model for the remaining num_epochs - 10 epochs.
Here is a more detailed explanation of the code:
model = torch.load('model_10.pth')loads the model weights from themodel_10.pthfile.for epoch in range(11, num_epochs):loops over the remaining epochs.# Training code here...contains the training code.
Remember, saving and loading models during training is a good practice that can save you a lot of time and trouble. Keep up the fantastic work! You're doing a great job exploring the world of deep learning with PyTorch.
9.3.5 Best Practices for Saving and Loading Models
When working with PyTorch and other deep learning frameworks, there are a few best practices you should follow when saving and loading models:
- Save the model's state_dict, not the entire model: While you can save the entire model in PyTorch, it's generally recommended to only save the model's
state_dict. This is because thestate_dictonly includes the model parameters, which are the most essential part of the model. Saving the entire model also saves the architecture, but this can lead to problems if the architecture changes or if the model needs to be loaded in a different environment. - Use a .pth or .pt extension for PyTorch model files: While you can use any file extension you like, it's common to use the .pth or .pt extension for PyTorch model files. This makes it clear that the file is a PyTorch model.
- Save and load on the same device: When saving and loading models, make sure to do it on the same device (CPU or GPU). If you need to load a model on a different device, you can use the
map_locationargument in thetorch.load()function. - Save periodically during training: As mentioned earlier, it's a good practice to save your model periodically during training. This way, if something goes wrong, you can resume training from the last saved model instead of starting from scratch.
- Keep track of training information: When saving your model, it can be helpful to also save some information about the training process, such as the number of epochs, the current learning rate, and the performance on the validation set. This can help you keep track of the training process and make it easier to resume training later.
Here's an example of how you can save a model's state_dict along with some training information:
# Assume model is an instance of a PyTorch neural network
# Assume optimizer is an instance of a PyTorch optimizer
# Assume epoch is the current epoch number
# Assume loss is the loss on the validation set
torch.save({
'epoch': epoch,
'model_state_dict': model.state_dict(),
'optimizer_state_dict': optimizer.state_dict(),
'loss': loss,
}, 'checkpoint.pth')And here's how you can load the state_dict and the training information:
# Load the checkpoint
checkpoint = torch.load('checkpoint.pth')
# Load the model and optimizer state_dict
model.load_state_dict(checkpoint['model_state_dict'])
optimizer.load_state_dict(checkpoint['optimizer_state_dict'])
# Load the other training information
epoch = checkpoint['epoch']
loss = checkpoint['loss']
In this section, we've taken a deep dive into the process of saving and loading models in PyTorch. This is a crucial skill for any machine learning practitioner, as it allows us to preserve our models for future use, share them with others, and pick up where we left off in case of interruptions during training.
We've learned how to save and load the entire model as well as just the state_dict, which contains the model's learned parameters. We've also discussed the importance of saving models periodically during training and the best practices for doing so. Furthermore, we've seen how to save and load models on the same device and the common file extensions used for PyTorch models.
Remember, the key to mastering these skills is practice. So, don't hesitate to experiment with saving and loading models as you continue your journey in deep learning with PyTorch. Keep up the fantastic work, and happy learning!