The statistical method used for making predictions based on past data trends is called?

The statistical method used for making predictions based on past data trends is indeed referred to as predictive analysis. This approach focuses on using historical data to identify patterns and trends that can inform future outcomes. By analyzing past behaviors and trends, predictive analysis enables analysts to forecast future events or trends, which is highly valuable in various fields such as finance, marketing, and healthcare.

Predictive analysis often involves applying techniques such as regression analysis, machine learning, and time series analysis to create models that can predict future values or behaviors based on previous data. This predictive capability is essential for decision-making and strategic planning.

The other options represent different aspects of statistics:

• Descriptive statistics involves summarizing and describing the characteristics of a dataset but does not focus on making predictions.

• Sample analysis pertains to evaluating a subset of a population to infer characteristics about the whole but again does not inherently predict future trends.

• Inferential statistics is concerned with making generalizations or inferences about a population based on a sample but does not specialize in prediction as its primary goal. Its primary focus is on hypothesis testing and estimating population parameters.

By understanding these distinctions, it's clear why predictive analysis stands out as the appropriate method for making predictions based on historical data trends.