Regression analysis is a statistical technique used to determine the relationship between variables. It allows researchers to make causal inferences between a dependent and independent variable. Simple regression involves one independent variable, while multiple regression has several. The ordinary least squares method fits a line to data points to minimize the sum of squared deviations, finding the regression coefficients to estimate the dependent variable from the independent variable(s). Researchers specify the model, collect data, estimate relationships, test significance, and use results for decision making.