What shape would the scatterplot take if two research assistants' ratings show a strong positive correlation?

In a scenario where two research assistants' ratings demonstrate a strong positive correlation, the scatterplot would exhibit a cloud of points that slopes upward. This upward slope indicates that as the rating given by one research assistant increases, the rating given by the other research assistant also tends to increase. A strong positive correlation signifies a consistent relationship where higher values in one variable are associated with higher values in the other variable, resulting in a clear upward trend in the data points on the scatterplot.

This behavior differentiates itself from a random cloud of points, which would indicate no correlation, and a downward slope, which would suggest a negative correlation. Circles in a scatterplot would imply a non-linear relationship, which is not indicative of a strong positive correlation. Therefore, the correct answer accurately reflects the nature of the relationship observed in the data.