What is the first step in using a calculator to compute Pearson's r?

The first step in using a calculator to compute Pearson's r is to select the mode for data entry. This is important because the calculator needs to be in the correct mode to accurately input and analyze the data. By selecting the appropriate mode, you ensure that the calculator is ready to process the specific dataset, whether it's for statistics, regression, or other relevant calculations. This setup lays the foundation for entering data correctly and performing the subsequent calculations needed to find Pearson's correlation coefficient.

Once the correct mode is set, you can then proceed with entering the x-values and y-values, but having the right mode first is crucial for a successful calculation.