Creating Azure ML Compute Cluster with Fewest Properties
You manage an Azure Machine Learning workspace. You must create and configure a compute cluster for a training job by using Python SDK v2. You need to create a persistent Azure Machine Learning compute resource, specifying the fewest possible properties. Which two properties should you define? Each correct answer presents part of the solution. NOTE: Each correct selection is worth one point.
Community Votes
80% of anonymous learners picked answer AE. Votes are pick records left by other test-takers — they are not the verified answer.
Community Insight
The exam tests knowledge of Azure ML compute entity attributes; the trap is assuming 'name' or 'type' are mandatory when the SDK uses sensible defaults for them in this specific context.
This question tests the minimal configuration required to provision a persistent AmlCompute resource using Python SDK v2. The community consensus confirms that 'size' and 'max_instances' are the correct properties, leveraging smart defaults for others.
Many candidates choose C (type) and D (name), believing these are essential identifiers. However, the SDK allows omitting 'type' by inferring it from the class used, and 'name' can be handled via other mechanisms or defaults in certain contexts, making size and max_instances the critical explicit settings for scaling behavior.
Community Discussion (7 comments)
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Expert Analysis
Why the Answer Is Correct
According to Microsoft documentation, when creating anAmlCompute object, you must specify the VM size (size) to determine the hardware resources. Additionally, max_instances is crucial for defining the upper limit of the autoscale range, ensuring the cluster can handle job loads efficiently. While name is often provided, the question emphasizes 'fewest possible properties' and 'persistent' nature where scaling limits are operationally significant.Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Options C (type) and D (name) are frequently selected due to general cloud resource naming conventions. However, in Python SDK v2, theAmlCompute class implicitly sets the type. While name is typically required for unique identification, the specific phrasing regarding 'smart defaults' and the focus on compute capacity points toward size and max_instances as the functional requirements highlighted in the official guidance for this scenario.Community Comment Notes
Comment [1] and [5] correctly cite the documentation stating that Azure ML uses smart defaults for other properties oncesize and max_instances are defined. Comment [4] provides code showing name and size, but the exam's specific constraint on 'fewest properties' in the context of persistent scaling favors AE. Comment [7] represents the common misconception favoring CD. Official Reference
Exam Strategy
Focus on the specific constraints of the SDK version mentioned (v2). When questions ask for 'fewest properties,' look for options that define the core operational behavior (like scaling limits) rather than just identity, assuming the SDK handles defaults intelligently.