Embodiments of the disclosure provide methods and systems for performing machine learning. The method can include: receiving training data; training a machine learning model based on the training data, wherein the machine learning model includes multiple layers each having one or more nodes having one or more connections with a node from another layer of the machine learning model; evaluating weights associated with the connections of the machine learning model, wherein each connection has a corresponding weight; removing, from the machine learning model, one or more connections having a weight that does not satisfy a threshold condition; and after the connections have been removed, updating the machine learning model.