Fourier Circuits in Neural Networks and Transformers: A Case Study of Modular Arithmetic with Multiple Inputs
In the evolving landscape of machine learning, a pivotal challenge lies in deciphering the internal representations harnessed by neural networks and Transformers. Building on recent progress toward comprehending how networks execute distinct target functions, our study embarks on an exploration of the underlying reasons behind networks adopting specific computational strategies. We direct our focus to the complex algebraic learning task of modular addition involving $k$ inputs. Our research presents a thorough analytical characterization of the features learned by stylized one-hidden layer neural networks and one-layer Transformers in addressing this task. A cornerstone of our theoretical framework is the elucidation of how the principle of margin maximization shapes the features adopted by one-hidden layer neural networks. Let $p$ denote the modulus, $D_p$ denote the dataset of modular arithmetic with $k$ inputs and $m$ denote the network width. We demonstrate that a neuron count of $ m \geq 2^{2k-2} \cdot (p-1) $, these networks attain a maximum $ L_{2,k+1} $-margin on the dataset $ D_p $. Furthermore, we establish that each hidden-layer neuron aligns with a specific Fourier spectrum, integral to solving modular addition problems. By correlating our findings with the empirical observations of similar studies, we contribute to a deeper comprehension of the intrinsic computational mechanisms of neural networks. Furthermore, we observe similar computational mechanisms in attention matrices of one-layer Transformers. Our work stands as a significant stride in unraveling their operation complexities, particularly in the realm of complex algebraic tasks.
Code (0)
등록된 구현이 없습니다.
Tasks
2kMathematical ReasoningMethods 이 논문이 사용한 방법론
Similar Papers 제목 키워드 기반
Towards Empirical Interpretation of Internal Circuits and Properties in Grokked Transformers on Modular Polynomials
Grokking has been actively explored to reveal the mystery of delayed generalization and identifying interpretable representations and algorithms inside the grokked models is a suggestive hint to understanding its mechani…
Multiplication Beyond Groups: Stratified Fourier Mechanisms in Transformer Circuits
Transformers have demonstrated a remarkable ability to learn algorithmic reasoning, yet mechanistic analyses have mostly focused on globally invertible operations such as cyclic addition and group composition. In this wo…
Clustering Head: A Visual Case Study of the Training Dynamics in Transformers
This paper introduces the sparse modular addition task and examines how transformers learn it. We focus on transformers with embeddings in $\R^2$ and introduce a visual sandbox that provides comprehensive visualizations …
ClusteringLow Rank and Sparse Fourier Structure in Recurrent Networks Trained on Modular Addition
Modular addition tasks serve as a useful test bed for observing empirical phenomena in deep learning, including the phenomenon of \emph{grokking}. Prior work has shown that one-layer transformer architectures learn Fouri…
AttributeOn the geometry and topology of representations: the manifolds of modular addition
The Clock and Pizza interpretations, associated with architectures differing in either uniform or learnable attention, were introduced to argue that different architectural designs can yield distinct circuits for modular…