UGC NET Questions (Paper – 1)

A scatter plot displays pairs of scores for two quantitative variables as points on a Cartesian plane, with one variable on the x-axis and the other on the y-axis. The pattern of points reveals the form, direction and strength of their relationship, such as positive, negative or no correlation. It is a fundamental tool in correlation and regression analysis. Therefore, the diagram described in the stem is correctly called a scatter plot.

Option A:
Bar diagrams represent frequencies or magnitudes of a single categorical variable by the lengths of rectangular bars. They do not show paired observations for two quantitative variables, so they cannot display the direction and magnitude of a relationship as stated in the question. Hence, bar diagram is not the correct answer.

Option B:
Pie charts show proportions of a whole for categories of a variable as slices of a circle. They are suitable for categorical or percentage data but cannot depict the detailed scatter of paired quantitative scores. Thus, pie chart does not fit the stem.

Option C:
Line graphs connect data points with lines, often to show trends over time, and may be used for one or more series of values. While they can illustrate changes, they are less suited to showing the cloud of points that expresses the strength and form of a relationship between two quantitative variables, so line graph is not the best completion.

Option D:
Scatter plots allow visual detection of outliers, non-linear patterns and clustering, making them ideal for initial exploration of relationships between variables. This role directly matches the description given in the question.