Читать книгу Introduction to Linear Regression Analysis - Douglas C. Montgomery - Страница 19

Building a regression model is an iterative process. The model-building process is illustrated in Figure 1.8. It begins by using any theoretical knowledge of the process that is being studied and available data to specify an initial regression model. Graphical data displays are often very useful in specifying the initial model. Then the parameters of the model are estimated, typically by either least squares or maximum likelihood. These procedures are discussed extensively in the text. Then model adequacy must be evaluated. This consists of looking for potential misspecification of the model form, failure to include important variables, including unnecessary variables, or unusual/inappropriate data. If the model is inadequate, then adjustments must be made and the parameters estimated again. This process may be repeated several times until an adequate model is obtained. Finally, model validation should be carried out to ensure that the model will produce results that are acceptable in the final application.

A good regression computer program is a necessary tool in the model-building process. However, the routine application of standard regression computer programs often does not lead to successful results. The computer is not a substitute for creative thinking about the problem. Regression analysis requires the intelligent and artful use of the computer. We must learn how to interpret what the computer is telling us and how to incorporate that information in subsequent models. Generally, regression computer programs are part of more general statistics software packages, such as Minitab, SAS, JMP, and R. We discuss and illustrate the use of these packages throughout the book. Appendix D contains details of the SAS procedures typically used in regression modeling along with basic instructions for their use. Appendix E provides a brief introduction to the R statistical software package. We present R code for doing analyses throughout the text. Without these skills, it is virtually impossible to successfully build a regression model.

Figure 1.8 Regression model-building process.