Extrapolation

Extrapolation is a method used to estimate or predict a value beyond the range of known data points based on existing trends. Imagine you notice a pattern in a series of data points; extrapolation extends this pattern into an area where no data exists, allowing you to make an educated guess about future or unknown values. It's like projecting the line of a graph beyond the current data to see where it might go. While useful, extrapolation carries uncertainty because it assumes the current trend continues unchanged outside the known data range.