In least squares analysis,the slope and intercept are defined so as to minimize the _____ that the data points,considered collectively,are from the regression line.
A)vertical distances
B)horizontal distances
C)squared vertical distances
D)squared horizontal distances

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The squared vertical distances, also known as the residuals, are squared and summed to find the sum of the squared residuals (SSR). The least squares method minimizes this sum by adjusting the slope and intercept of the regression line until the SSR is as small as possible. Therefore, the correct choice is C.

In Least Squares Analysis,the Slope and Intercept Are Defined So