Rethinking Variational Inference for Probabilistic Programs with Stochastic Support
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Abstract (arXiv)
We introduce Support Decomposition Variational Inference (SDVI), a new variational inference (VI) approach for probabilistic programs with stochastic support. Existing approaches to this problem rely on designing a single global variational guide on a variable-by-variable basis, while maintaining the stochastic control flow of the original program. SDVI instead breaks the program down into sub-programs with static support, before automatically building separate sub-guides for each. This decomposition significantly aids in the construction of suitable variational families, enabling, in turn, substantial improvements in inference performance.
Key facts. Cited by 2 papers in the map (data through 14 Oct 2026). Builds on 38 of its 71 references that are in the map. First posted on arXiv 1 Nov 2023.
Builds on
38 of 71 references.
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26 more
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Citing papers per year: 2024: 1; 2025: 1.
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