Final answer:
When using a line of best fit to predict future values, it is important to consider the overall shape of the data and whether a line is the best way to fit the data.
Step-by-step explanation:
When using a line of best fit to predict future values, it is important to consider the overall shape of the data and whether a line is the best way to fit the data. A line of best fit is appropriate when the data points roughly follow a linear pattern. To determine if a line is the best fit, you can visually examine the scatter plot and look for any outliers that may affect the line. Additionally, you can calculate the slope of the least-squares line, which represents the rate of change between the independent and dependent variables. If the slope has a meaningful interpretation in the context of the data, it can support the use of a line of best fit.