Approximate a R2 line by a set of points

Question

Hi there.

I'm working on an application with statistic analysis, and I need some help. Given a set of n points, how can I approximate a line by them. I'm sure there is an algorithm but I couldn't find it.

Thanks!

Answer 1

If you're trying to fit a straight line, I suggest you look at linear regression. This old SO answer handles the more general case of curve fitting in Java and eventually recommends CurveFitting Java.

Answer 2

The topic is called linear regression, or ordinary least squares. You should be able to find more details in any linear algebra or stat book.

A Java implementation can be found here