Correlation tells you where the dots like to travel, not why they travel. Direction, form, strength, and the rebel points… that’s your checklist. Don’t rush to r; earn it by describing the shape. If one point has long arms (extreme x), it can drag the line… note it. If the shape bends, say “curved,” not “weak.” And when the story tempts you to say “causes,” write the honest version: “associated with, controlling for X.” Maps are useful because they don’t pretend to be the terrain.
