The document provides an introduction to machine learning including definitions of machine learning and why it is important. It describes the main types of machine learning as supervised learning, unsupervised learning, and reinforcement learning. It discusses the benefits of machine learning such as improved efficiency, better decision making, personalization and prediction, and also discusses some costs such as data requirements, expertise needed, and computational power required. Finally, it outlines some trends for the future of machine learning including advancements in deep learning, more applications, increased use of reinforcement learning, a focus on explainability and greater human-machine collaboration.