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1 September 2007 Nomograms Aid Interpretation of Complex Regression Models
ROBERT A. GITZEN, JOSHUA J. MILLSPAUGH
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Abstract

Ecologists often develop complex regression models that include multiple categorical and continuous variables, interactions among predictors, and nonlinear relationships between the response and predictor variables. Nomograms, which are graphical devices for presenting mathematical functions and calculating output values, can aid biologists in interpreting and presenting these complex models. To illustrate benefits of nomograms, we developed a logistic regression model of elk (Cervus elaphus) resource selection. With this model, we demonstrated how a nomogram helps scientists and managers interpret interactions among variables, compare the relative biological importance of variables, and examine predicted shapes of relationships (e.g., linear vs. nonlinear) between response and predictor variables. Although our example focused on logistic regression, nomograms are equally useful for other linear and nonlinear models. Regardless of the approach used for model development, nomograms and other graphical summaries can help scientists and managers develop, interpret, and apply statistical models.

ROBERT A. GITZEN and JOSHUA J. MILLSPAUGH "Nomograms Aid Interpretation of Complex Regression Models," Journal of Wildlife Management 71(7), 2438-2443, (1 September 2007). https://doi.org/10.2193/2006-313
Published: 1 September 2007
JOURNAL ARTICLE
6 PAGES

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KEYWORDS
habitat modeling
linear model
logistic regression
nomogram
resource selection
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