Estimation methods refer to a variety of techniques used in research to estimate unknown parameters or variables based on available data. Some common estimation methods include: 1. Least squares estimation: This method is used to estimate the coefficients of a regression model by minimizing the sum of the squared differences between the observed and predicted values. 2. Maximum likelihood estimation: This method is used to estimate the parameters of a statistical model by maximizing the likelihood function, which measures the probability of obtaining the observed data given the model. 3. Bayesian estimation: This method combines prior information with observed data to estimate unknown parameters using Bayes' theorem. It provides a posterior distribution of the parameters, which reflects both the prior beliefs and the observed data. 4. Bootstrapping: This resampling technique is used to estimate the sampling distribution of a statistic by repeatedly sampling with replacement from the original data. It allows for the calculation of confidence intervals and hypothesis testing without making assumptions about the underlying distribution. 5. Monte Carlo simulation: This method uses random sampling techniques to estimate complex or computationally intensive models. By generating a large number of simulations, it provides an estimate of the parameters or outcomes of interest. 6. Panel data estimation: This method is used to estimate models with data that includes both cross-sectional and time series dimensions. It accounts for individual-specific effects and time trends in the data. Overall, estimation methods play a crucial role in statistical analysis and research, providing a way to quantify uncertainty and make inferences based on available data.