Nonlinear Estimation - Evaluating the Fit of the Model

After estimating the regression parameters, an essential aspect of the analysis is to test the appropriateness of the overall model. For example, if you specify a linear regression model, but the relationship is intrinsically non-linear, then the parameter estimates (regression coefficients) and the estimated standard errors of those estimates may be significantly "off." For a review of some of the ways to evaluate the appropriateness of a model, see the following topics: