Curve fitting refers to the process of creating a mathematical equation that best matches a set of data points. Synonyms for curve fitting include data modeling, function approximation, regression analysis, and line of best fit. Data modeling involves using statistical analysis to identify patterns in the data set and create a model that represents the relationships between variables. Function approximation involves creating an equation that estimates the behavior of a given set of data. Regression analysis is a statistical technique that is used to identify and quantify the relationship between variables. The line of best fit refers to a straight line that passes through the middle of a set of data points.