Regression by eye

The applet below allows one to interactively estimate the regression line for a data set. When the applet loads, a data set consisting of 20 points is displayed. Points can be added to the plot by clicking the mouse. Points on the plot can be removed by clicking on the point and then dragging the point into the trash can. All of the points on the plot can be removed by simply clicking inside the trash can. Move the green line on the plot by clicking and dragging the mouse over the end points. Try to move the line in order to minimize the sum of square error (SSE). Note that the regression line minimizes SSE. The SSE for the green line and for the regression line are given below the plot. The equations of each line are given above the plot. Click the Show regression line! button to see the regression line in the plot. Click the New data button to generate a new data set. Things to try with the applet:
  • Try to estimate the regression line for 10 different data sets.
  • Try to create a data set with a regression line with an intercept near 0 and a slope near 1.