The least squares method of finding a formula for a straight line
A) is different from the two-point method for finding the formula
B) is the solution for finding a line through a scatterplot
C) minimizes the errors in prediction in a special way
D) all of the other alternatives are correct.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The least squares method is indeed different from the two-point method, as it is designed to find the best-fitting line through a scatterplot of data points by minimizing the sum of the squares of the vertical distances (errors) of the points from the line, rather than simply connecting two points. This method is specifically aimed at reducing prediction errors in a systematic manner, making all the given alternatives correct descriptions of the least squares method.

The Least Squares Method of Finding a Formula for a Straight