Description: This article explores the use of Generalized Additive Models and Multivariate Adaptive Regression Splines to model nonlinear relationships in a linear response model. These models use supervised methods to determine the optimal shape of the predictors in the model. Users are provided an example use case so that they may get started right away building models to explore complex relationships in new ways.

Description: The session offers high-level initial steps to get started using R, as well as a list of helpful resources for both general data science and actuarial science with R. Attendees will learn about popular R packages to perform practical tasks such as importing, transforming and visualizing data, as well as packages commonly used by actuaries. You will also be introduced to the markdown package for creating reproducible and reusable analyses and workflows. By the end of the session, you will be familiar enough with using R and RStudio to begin incorporating these tools in your day-to-day work as an actuary