Explanation of Economic Projections Charts The charts show actual values and projections for three economic variables, based on FOMC participants’ individual assessments of appropriate monetary policy: Change in Real Gross Domestic Product (GDP)—as measured from the fourth quarter of the previous year to the fourth quarter of the year indicated, with values plotted at the end of each year. Unemployment Rate—the average civilian unemployment rate in the fourth quarter of each year, with values plotted at the end of each year. PCE Inflation—as measured by the change in the personal consumption expenditures (PCE) price ... (full story)