Constructing scatterplots and interpreting Pearson's correlation coefficient

What this note covers

1. What is a scatterplot and why do we use one?
2. Describing association: direction, form and strength
3. Pearson's correlation coefficient r: meaning and scale
4. Calculating Pearson's r by formula
5. Worked example: hours studied vs exam mark
6. Correlation vs causation: a critical distinction
7. HSC exam strategy for scatterplot and correlation questions

7 sections · 14 key terms & formulas · 6 common mistakes