Scatter plot

Definition

A scatter plot is a type of graph used to display and assess the relationship between two numerical variables. Each point on the scatter plot represents an individual data point with its coordinates corresponding to the values of the two variables.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Scatter plots are used to visually inspect for potential linear relationships between two variables.
2. The pattern of points in a scatter plot can indicate positive correlation, negative correlation, or no correlation.
3. Outliers in a scatter plot are points that fall far from the general pattern of data.
4. A line of best fit, or regression line, can be drawn on a scatter plot to model the relationship between the variables.
5. The strength and direction of a linear relationship in a scatter plot can be quantitatively measured using the correlation coefficient.

Review Questions

• What does each point on a scatter plot represent?
• How can you determine if there is a positive or negative correlation between two variables using a scatter plot?
• What is the purpose of drawing a line of best fit on a scatter plot?

Related terms

Correlation Coefficient:

A statistical measure that indicates the extent to which two variables change together. Values range from -1 (perfect negative correlation) to +1 (perfect positive correlation).

Line of Best Fit:

A straight line drawn through the center of a group of data points plotted on a scatter plot, used to approximate the relationship between them.

Outlier:

An observation point that is distant from other observations in the data set. In scatter plots, outliers can significantly affect interpretations and models.