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What are effective ways to handle missing data in time series?
Asked on Jan 22, 2026
Answer
Handling missing data in time series is crucial for maintaining the integrity of your analysis and forecasts. Common techniques include interpolation, forward/backward filling, and using model-based approaches to estimate missing values.
Example Concept: Interpolation is a method used to estimate missing values in a time series by using the known data points. Linear interpolation assumes a straight line between two known points, filling in missing values along this line. Alternatively, spline interpolation uses piecewise polynomials for a smoother curve. Forward filling (propagating the last known value) and backward filling (using the next known value) are simpler methods but may introduce bias if the missing data is extensive. Model-based methods, such as using ARIMA or Kalman filters, can also predict missing values by leveraging the time series' underlying patterns.
Additional Comment:
- Consider the nature of your data and the reason for missing values when choosing a method.
- Evaluate the impact of different imputation methods on your model's performance.
- Use visualization to assess how well the imputed values fit the overall trend of the time series.
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