W6 - L4 - Simple Linear Regression
W6 - L4 - Simple Linear Regression
Regression analysis serves as a powerful predictive modelling technique that investigates into
the intricate relationship between a dependent variable and one or more independent variables.
This statistical method is instrumental for forecasting and unravelling causal effect
relationships among variables. To illustrate, the extent of relationship between rash driving and
the number of road accidents by a driver can be effectively studied through regression analysis.
Linear Regression:
Linear regression is the most common form of prescriptive analytical technique. It establishes
a linear relationship between two variables, showcasing this relationship through a line of best
fit. Graphically depicted in a scatter plot, the independent variable occupies the X-axis, and the
dependent variable resides on the Y-axis. The regression line encapsulates the slope and
relationship estimation, along with an assessment of error. The core of linear regression lies in
gaining insights into the structure of relationships. It provides measures of how well the data
align with these relationships. Such insights prove invaluable for analysing historical trends,
understanding associations, and developing accurate forecasts. For accurate interpretation of
regression results, certain assumptions about the data and model must be upheld. This ensures
the reliability of the insights derived from the analysis.
Simple Linear Regression explores the fundamental relationship between a single dependent
and independent variable. For Example, the relationship between the number of training hours
(X) an employee receives and their monthly productivity (Y). The model for the above
relationship is:
Where,
Y represents the Dependent Variable—what we're trying to predict or understand.
X is the Independent (Explanatory) Variable—the factor we believe influences Y.
a represents the Intercept—the starting point of our relationship.
b is the Slope—the rate at which Y changes concerning changes in X.
e signifies the Residual or Error—the part of Y that our model can't explain.
Interpreting the results of regression analysis in Excel involves understanding the key
components of the output.
Coefficients:
• The "Coefficients" table provides information about the regression equation. Each row
corresponds to a variable (constant, , X variable).
• "Intercept" (Constant): This is the y-intercept of the regression line. It represents the
predicted value of Y when X is zero.
• "X Variable": These are the coefficients for your independent variable(s). They
represent the change in the dependent variable (Y) for a one-unit change in the
independent variable.
Standard Error:
• The "Standard Error" measures the accuracy of the coefficients. Smaller standard errors
indicate more precise estimates.
P-Value:
The "P-Value" is associated with the t-statistic and tests the null hypothesis that the coefficient
is equal to zero. A small p-value (typically ≤ 0.05) suggests that the variable is statistically
significant.
R-squared (R²):
R-squared measures the proportion of the variance in the dependent variable explained by the
independent variable(s). A higher R-squared indicates a better fit of the model to the data.
Adjusted R-squared:
The "Adjusted R-squared" adjusts R-squared for the number of independent variables in the
model.
F-Statistic:
The "F-Statistic" tests the overall significance of the regression model. A small p-value
suggests that at least one independent variable is significant.
ANOVA (Analysis of Variance):
The ANOVA table provides information on the variance in the dependent variable explained
by the model.
Interpretation Example:
Suppose you have a regression output where the coefficient for the X variable is 0.75 with a p-
value of 0.02. This suggests that, holding all other factors constant, a one-unit increase in X is
associated with a 0.75-unit increase in the dependent variable. The p-value of 0.02 indicates
that this relationship is statistically significant.
In essence, regression analysis emerges as a robust tool for establishing connections within
data, providing a foundation for predictive modelling and yielding valuable insights for future
projections.