The two most common terms used in the world of statistics are Correlation followed by Regression. The two terms are described as ‘Analysis’ as they are based on the dissemination of numerous variables. This phenomenon is commonly known as multivariate distribution. They are most commonly used when the association between two quantitative variables needs to be examined.
Interviewees are most likely to be quizzed upon the distinguishing characteristics of Correlation as well as Regression. However, many people suffer doubtfulness in understanding the two above phrases.
Correlation vs Regression
The main difference between Correlation and Regression is that correlation is the measure of association or absence between the two variables, for instance, ‘x,’ and ‘y.’ ‘x,’ and ‘y’ are not independent or dependent variables here. Whereas, in Regression, the value of the contingent variable is calculated using the value of the independent variable.
The relationship between the two different variables initially assessed. Regression has countless instinctive applications in the day to day life. Here is a thorough comparison table that can successfully explain the differences between the two terms.
Comparison Table Between Correlation and Regression
| Parameter of Comparison | Correlation | Regression |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | It determines the co-relationship, which is the association between two variables. Largely depends on statistics-based procedures. | Justifies the arithmetic relation between the two, an autonomous value and a dependent one. |
| Objective | It enables to identify the numerical value that expresses the relationship in between two or more variables. | In Regression, the values of a fixed variable help us pinpoint and approximate the values of the random variable. |
| Usage | The linear association between two variables is shown. | Mostly based on an estimation based on one variable to predict the value of the other variable. |
| Independent Variable & Dependent variable | Both dependent as well as independent variables are similar to each other. | Independent and dependent variables are not the same. |
| Indication | It is the measure of the degree to which the two variables change simultaneously. | Regression signifies how the switch in the value of a variable (x) is determined by the variable (y). |
What is the Correlation?
Correlation is derived from two words, namely, ‘Co’ which means together, and ‘relation,’ meaning link or a connection, which is between a couple of quantities.
It merely means the degree of change occurring in one of the variables and is reacted by a corresponding change in the other variable. This could be an explicit change or an implicit one.
It successfully depicts the degree of association between two of the variables taken into consideration, it is based on the principles of statistics. The value determined can either be a positive one or negative.
When both the variables are moving in an identical direction, it is a positive correlation, and the results are corresponding to one another, leading to investment and gain.
Contrarily, a negative correlation
occurs when the variables are moving in opposite directions, this results in
the decline in the other variable. For instance, the value and requirement of
an item are interrelated.
An example where correlation can be
successfully implemented is when a company wishes to compare the cumulative
number of sales made to the number of salespersons employed.
What is Regression?
Regression is an attempt that is used to determine the relationship of one variable with the other significant variable. The two types of variables used is a dependent one and an independent one. Regression makes one step ahead of correlation as it adds the prediction capabilities.
Regression is applied on an intuitive
level by the people on a daily basis. It holds a significant place in human
actions, as it is a potent tool that is used to predict the events that
occurred prior to these times, in the present, and future based on the previous
or current events and occurrences.
For instance, past business records
can estimate its future profits. It can be explained with a simple example of
how we wake up in the morning. If you go to bed early, you can wake up early in
the morning with greater ease.
We can understand linear regression using two variables ‘x’ and ‘y’. Here, both the variables ‘x’ and ‘y’ depend on another, i.e., ‘y’ depends or is affected by ‘x,’ which is an independent variable. The mentioned factors are indicated on a statistical graph, which is a mathematical representation.
Quantitative Regression is more
accurate as it creates an arithmetic interpretation of an equation. This
equation or formulae can be used for analyzing and predicting in the
future.
For instance, a doctor estimates the appropriate drug dosage (independent variable) for a patient based on their body weight, which is a dependent variable.
Main Differences Between Correlation and Regression
- Only a single piece of data or statistics is considered in Correlation. However, Regression provides a complete mathematical equation.
- Correlation pinpoints the degree to which two variables are associated with each other. On the other hand, Regression reflects the impression of a unit change in the independent variable due to the changes in the dependent variable.
- Correlation can give a crisp value describing the relationship between the two variables. Regression is beneficial as it thoroughly examines and further predicts values for a variable using mathematical equations.
- In Correlation, the variables ‘x’ and ‘y’ are arbitrary. They can weight, blood pressure, or cholesterol level. As opposed to Regression that assumes ‘x’ as a fixed variable with no error, such as temperature setting.
- The term Correlation was derived during the 16th century, from the Medieval Latin, meaning a mutual relationship or connection between two or more things.
- On the other side, Francis Galton coined the term Regression in the 19th century. He used it to illustrate a biological occurrence. In Particular, regression means reverting to a primitive state.
Conclusion
It is obvious that the Correlation analysis and the Regression analysis have a major difference between each other, although these couple of mathematical concepts are calculated together.
Whilst in a Regression analysis, the researcher tries to identify the functional relationship between the two variables established to make future benefits and profits.
References
- https://psycnet.apa.org/record/1960-06763-000
- https://link.springer.com/content/pdf/10.3758/BRM.41.4.1149.pdf
- https://psycnet.apa.org/record/1995-97110-002