1. A method in a neural network shell of creating a neural network data structure for a neural network, comprising the machine-executed steps of: selecting a neural network model from a plurality of defined neural network models for said neural network, wherein said neural network data structure is common and generic to all of said plurality of neural network models, and wherein said neural network data structure comprises a network size parameter field containing a plurality of network size parameters specific to said selected neural network model; creating a default neural network data structure corresponding to said neural network model selected in said selecting step by inputting initial values for a plurality of data arrays into said neural network data structure; prompting for a plurality of parameters specific to said neural network; and inputting said plurality of parameters into said default neural network data structure.