Forecasting is a research area that involves predicting future trends, patterns, and events based on historical data and statistical models. It is used in a wide range of fields, including economics, finance, business, weather, and healthcare, to make informed decisions and to plan for the future. Forecasting methods vary depending on the context and data available, and can include time series analysis, regression analysis, and machine learning algorithms. The goal of forecasting is to reduce uncertainty and improve decision-making by providing estimates of future outcomes.