The most common interpretation of r-squared is how well the regression model fits the observed data. For example, an r-squared of 60% reveals that 60% of the data fit the regression model. Generally, a higher r-squared indicates a better fit for the model.

Why is a high R-squared bad?

The R-squared value in your regression output has a tendency to be too high. When calculated from a sample, R2 is a biased estimator. In statistics, a biased estimator is one that is systematically higher or lower than the population value. R-squared estimates tend to be greater than the correct population value.

Are high r-squared values inherently good?

Are High R-squared Values Inherently Good? No! A high R-squared does not necessarily indicate that the model has a good fit. That might be a surprise, but look at the fitted line plot and residual plot below.