Scatterplots, Correlations and Regression

Flashcards covering key vocabulary related to scatterplots, correlation, and regression analysis.

Scatterplot

A visual representation of the relationship between two numerical variables.

Correlation Coefficient

A number between -1 and 1 that measures the strength and direction of the linear relationship between two numerical variables.

Linear Association

A relationship between two variables that can be reasonably modeled by a straight line.

Non-linear Association

A relationship between two variables that cannot be reasonably modeled by a straight line.

Positive Correlation

As one variable increases, the other variable tends to increase.

Negative Correlation

As one variable increases, the other variable tends to decrease.

Regression Line

A line that best represents the linear relationship between two numerical variables.

Outcome Variable

The variable being predicted (y-variable, dependent variable) in a regression analysis.

Predictor Variable

The variable used to predict the outcome variable (x-variable, independent variable) in a regression analysis.

Least Squares Regression Line

A line drawn to minimize the sum of the squared vertical distances between the data points and the line.

R-Squared

A value that measures the proportion of variance in the outcome variable (y) that is explained by the predictor variable (x).

Residual

The error in the predicted value; the difference between the observed and predicted values.

Slope

The average amount the y-variable increases for each unit change in the x-variable

Intercept

The predicted value of the y-variable when the x-variable is 0.