Vector Databases & Embeddings
Understand embeddings, distance metrics, ANN indexes, and the vector database landscape. Design end-to-end vector search pipelines with hybrid retrieval and evaluation.
"For this 500-article support KB, I'd use pgvector with hybrid search and RRF — here's the full pipeline design and cost analysis"
6 Modules
Each module builds on the previous one. By the end, you have a complete production system.
- 1
What Are Embeddings?
Understanding of vectors, similarity, and distance metrics
- 2
How Embedding Models Work
Tokenize-encode-pool pipeline and model selection
- 3
Vector Database Fundamentals
ANN indexes, trade-offs, and tuning parameters
- 4
The Vector DB Landscape
Database comparison and cost modeling
- 5
Search & Retrieval Patterns
Hybrid search, re-ranking, MMR, and evaluation
- 6
Your First Vector Pipeline
End-to-end pipeline design with decision memo
Production patterns you'll master
Synthetic data included
- Distance metrics (JSON)
- Embedding model comparisons
- Index benchmarks at scale
- Vector DB cost models
- Retrieval pattern evaluations
- Support KB scenario
What you walk away with
Shareable portfolio
A public URL showing your module timeline, patterns mastered, and completion status.
All the code
Download everything as a ZIP — pipelines, guardrails, deployment configs. Yours forever.
Module walkthrough
Each module documented with deliverables and the production pattern you implemented.
Ready to build your vector databases & embeddings?
First course free. $20 per course after that.