What is the difference between linear regression and polynomial regression?

Question

I'm currently experimenting with different regression techniques on this data set that I have, and I some sources state a method called "polynomial regression". I looked it up and I can't really find any clear explanation of what it is exactly. It sounds quite similar to linear regression - can anyone tell me the difference (if any)?

Thanks!

See gung's detailed explanation here – Glen_b Jul 28 '17 at 02:12 — Glen_b, Jul 28 '17 at 02:12
@Glen_b: Thanks for the help! Greatly appreciated. – Cynthia Jul 28 '17 at 02:50 — Cynthia, Jul 28 '17 at 02:50

score 4 · Accepted Answer · answered Jul 28 '17 at 02:02

4

Polynomial regression is a form of linear regression where higher order powers (2nd, 3rd or higher) of an independent variable are included.

answered Jul 28 '17 at 02:02

Michael R. Chernick

42,857

What is the difference between linear regression and polynomial regression?

1 Answers1