Software Engineering › Key terms › Y12 Software Automation › Polynomial regression
Polynomial regression
Definition
Fits a curve (a polynomial) to data where the relationship is not a straight line, to predict a numeric value.
Example: Predict plant growth that speeds up then slows down.
Found in: syllabus, course specifications, school notes.
Where it is used in the test
Syllabus area: Y12 Software Automation.
Question types it can appear in
- Short answer: Define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
- Multiple choice: Pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Python: Write or complete it in the online Python tool.
No past question in this bank is linked to this term yet. It can still be tested through the question types above.
Other questions that mention it
- 2025 HSC exam Q12 Software Automation (Part A) · 2 marks
Study links
- Flashcard: Polynomial regression in Software Automation (Year 12) · study that set
- Memorise: Decision trees
- Notes: Design, develop and apply ML regression models using an OOP to predict numeric values,… (Software Automation (Year 12))
- Master answer: hsc2025-q12 (2 marks, multi-select (true/false check boxes)) (Master model answers: Software Automation)
- Notes: Regression models and KNN (Software Automation (Year 12))
- Notes: Programming ML in an OOP language (example only) (Software Automation (Year 12))
How to use it in an answer
A model sentence
“Fits a curve (a polynomial) to data where the relationship is not a straight line, to predict a numeric value.” Then apply it: Predict plant growth that speeds up then slows down.
In a short answer, give the definition in your own words first, then tie it to the situation in the question. Do not copy the example above unless it fits the scenario.
Command words used with it
No linked question shows the command word for this term. Across the past short answer and python questions in this bank the words used most are: Explain, Outline, Describe, Compare, Classify, Analyse. Check the actual word in your question.
Technique for the question types
- Short answer: One clear point per mark, use the stimulus and course terms, and answer the command word.
- Multiple choice: Read all four options, rule out wrong ones, pick one; no penalty for guessing so never leave blank.
- Python: Write code that runs: indentation, quotes, define functions before calling them, print the required output, meet every listed requirement.
Common mistakes
- Python questions (2025 HSC exam Q19): process string inputs; use a selection structure; code must execute in the environment; use correct indentation; call functions in the main program after defining them.
- Python questions (2025 HSC exam Q26): replicate the grid; use the random library; use selection and looping to access the list; include a method of checking the number of values; use meaningful variable names and constants; avoid overly complex structures such as nested IF loops.
- Use the term exactly as the syllabus words it, then link it to the scenario in the question; the 2025 feedback repeatedly rewards using the stimulus.
- Answer the command word: outline gives main points only, explain gives a reason or cause, discuss gives both sides.
Related terms
Same group in the syllabus: Decision tree · Neural network · Linear regression · Logistic regression · K-nearest neighbour (KNN) · OOP for ML programming · Neural network code (predict)