Now that you've got a handle on the basics of regression analysis, the next step is to consider how to evaluate and modify a basic regression model. This module will introduce you to a common measure of model fit and the three core assumptions of regression analysis. In addition, we'll explore the special circumstance of conducting a regression analysis with a binary (AKA dummy) treatment variable. Dummy variables, which take on two values, are frequently used in statistics. Understanding how to use and interpret dummy variables provides a foundation for developing a multivariate regression model, which we'll get to in the next module.

The bivariate regression model is an essential building block of statistics, but it is usually insufficient in practice as a useful model for descriptive, causal or predictive inference. This is because there are usually multiple variables that impact a particular dynamic. Whether you are modeling political behavior, environmental processes or drug treatment outcomes, it is almost always necessary to account for multiple influences on an outcome of interest. This module will introduce the multivariate model of regression analysis and explain the appropriate ways to interpret and evaluate the results from a multivariate analysis.

Once you've mastered the OLS multivariate model, you're ready to learn about a wide array of regression modeling techniques. Remember, researchers should always employ modeling tools that best enable them to answer the question at hand. This module will focus on two tools in particular, interaction terms and models for binary dependent variables. Keep in mind, however, that there are numerous regression modeling tools that you can learn and implement based on the research question you're trying to answer. After you've developed a solid understanding of regression basics, you should feel capable of expanding this knowledge base as you move forward as a producer and consumer of analytics.