AP Statistics Unit 2 Topic 6: Residuals and residual plots

What to Know

Check the conditions of a theorem or method before applying it.
Show the setup before the calculation.
Interpret the result in context, including units when the problem supplies them.
Always connect this topic back to the larger unit: Exploring Two-Variable Data.

Detailed Notes

Residuals and residual plots should be studied through multiple representations. A graph may show behavior quickly, an equation may make calculation possible, and a verbal interpretation explains what the result means.

In AP Statistics, AP questions often award credit for setup and reasoning, not just final answers. Write the expression, theorem, condition, or model before doing the computation.

When this topic appears in free response, check whether the question asks for a value, a rate, an interval, a comparison, or a justification. Use units and context to make the final answer precise.

Key Vocabulary

Distribution

The pattern of variability in a dataset.

Normal distribution

A symmetric bell-shaped distribution described by mean and standard deviation.

Correlation

A measure of direction and strength of a linear association.

Regression line

A line used to model or predict a quantitative response from an explanatory variable.

Residual

Observed value minus predicted value.

Quick Practice

How would you explain Residuals and residual plots in one or two AP-style sentences?

Name the concept, apply it to a specific example or source, and explain the reasoning that connects the evidence to your answer.