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Why should I verify my scatterplot?

You have just created a scatterplot to examine a relationship.

Using the regression tool to validate your scatterplot can help to distinguish which of these three options may be happening. You may find that:
  • once you hold income, education, and demographics constant across all places, the correlation disappears or 
  • taking the variables in the regression out of the equation makes the correlation even stronger
These are evidence for a true relationship not existing or existing. In the end, you will have to do further research before you can ever say "X causes Y."