Question

I don't get this stat question at all! Which of the following should often be avoided?

Interpolation
Extrapolation
Regression
Correlation
All of the above

extrapolation or interpolation I'm guessing? why would we avoid regression and correlation - isn't that like saying avoid analysis? i don't get it.

Answer 1

Interpolation assumes things in the middle will happen like things on either side.
Extrapolation assumes things that have been always will continue to be.

Interpolation Example: If I was 22, and now I'm 24, I must have been 23 at some point.
Extrapolation Example: If I was 22, and then I was 23, I will definitely be 24 at some point.

Answer 2

so then B is the answer? of all these we would probably want to avoid extrapolation?

Answer 3

@tkhunny?

Answer 4

There is no DANGER in regressionor correlation. Like you said, there is no reason to avoid these.

There is some danger in interpolation, but not nearly as much as in extrapolation.

B it is. Next time, say it with more confidence. :-)

Answer 5

thanks!

I guess it's not as weird of a question as I thought.