line of best fit
Data's optimal path
A line of best fit is a straight line drawn through a scatter plot that best represents the relationship between two variables.
The line minimizes the overall distance between itself and all the data points, showing the general trend even when points don't fall perfectly in line: The line of best fit suggests a correlation between study time and test scores.
Also called a trend line or regression line.
Graph of coordinate pairs
- correlation coefficientMeasure of variable association
- r-valueTemporary, movable expression
- PearsonAnglo surname
- positive correlationVariables move same direction
negative correlation · bivariate · covariance · outliers · data points · association · statistical significance · p-value
Error-minimizing statistical method
- slopeAngled terrain or steepness
- interceptSeize en route
- residualsOngoing compensation for rebroadcasts
- coefficientNumber multiplying a variable
dependent variable · independent variable · standard error · confidence interval
Extending data beyond bounds
- interpolationEstimating between known values
- forecastPrediction of future conditions
- projectionSomething that extends outward
- estimationApproximate value judgment
Making as small as possible
- convergenceProcess of approaching sameness
- algorithmFinite problem-solving procedure
Recurring arrangement or template
- directionWay something faces
- upward trendSustained increase over time
- trajectoryPath of moving object
- growthIncrease in size
decline · seasonal trend · inflection point · plateau · acceleration
scatterplot
Graph of coordinate pairs
- correlation coefficientMeasure of variable association
- r-valueTemporary, movable expression
- PearsonAnglo surname
positive correlation · negative correlation · bivariate · covariance · outliers · data points · association · statistical significance · p-value
least squares
Error-minimizing statistical method
- slopeAngled terrain or steepness
- interceptSeize en route
- residualsOngoing compensation for rebroadcasts
coefficient · dependent variable · independent variable · standard error · confidence interval
extrapolation
Extending data beyond bounds
- interpolationEstimating between known values
- forecastPrediction of future conditions
- projectionSomething that extends outward
estimation · trendline · validation · overfitting · underfitting
minimization
Making as small as possible
- convergenceProcess of approaching sameness
- algorithmFinite problem-solving procedure
pattern
Recurring arrangement or template
- directionWay something faces
- upward trendSustained increase over time
- trajectoryPath of moving object
growth · decline · seasonal trend · inflection point · plateau · acceleration