least squares regression

a type of regression analysis in which the researcher strives to develop a least-squared-errors solution or least squares solution to describe the relationship between an outcome or dependent variable and one or more predictors or independent variables. That is, one develops a model that is the best fit for the data because it yields the smallest squared differences between the actual observations and their values as predicted by the model. Also called least squares estimation; ordinary least squares (OLS) regression. See least squares criterion.

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Psychology term of the day

November 22nd 2024

constant error

a systematic error in some particular direction. Constant error is computed as the average positive or negative difference between the observed and actual values along a dimension of interest. For example, if a weight of 1 kg is judged on average to be 1.5 kg, and a weight of 2 kg is judged to be 2.5 kg, the constant error is 500 g. See also absolute error; random error.