On a scatter plot in which we plan to develop a regression-based forecast, a smattering of points shows a pattern of a relationship between the “x” and “y” variables. Specifically, when x tends to increase , y tends to decrease . Most likely, the coefficient of correlation (r) is between:

(a). -2 and -1

(b). 0 and +1

(c). +1 and +2

(d). -1 and 0