What is the main purpose of a scatter plot in data analysis?

The main purpose of a scatter plot in data analysis is to determine the relationship between two variables. A scatter plot displays points on a Cartesian plane, where each point represents the values of two different variables; one is plotted on the x-axis and the other on the y-axis. By examining the arrangement of the points, analysts can identify patterns, trends, or correlations between the two variables.

For example, if the points on the scatter plot show a clear upward trend, it suggests a positive correlation, meaning that as one variable increases, the other variable tends to increase as well. Conversely, if the points show a downward trend, that indicates a negative correlation. If the points are scattered without any discernible pattern, it may suggest little to no correlation between the variables. Thus, scatter plots are essential tools for visually assessing relationships in data, helping analysts make informed decisions and predictions based on observed trends.