Analysts deal with real numerical data. Often the data is collected over time. Because numbers are abstract, analysts often use graphs to make numerical data more meaningful. Real data typically fluctuates in some random fashion. However, patterns often exist in the data. An example would be the seasonal fluctuations in commodities. Analysts use a variety of techniques to help them find patterns that have the potential to improve their skill in predicting future trends. This paper suggests some ways to make some of these patterns more obvious.We are here presenting techniques to enhance traditional methods of providing information in graphs. By taking advantage of current computer technology to provide graphic images and to draw graphs, new and exciting visual images are possible. In addition, animation strategies allow us to simulate the passage of time. Finally, we add a whimsical touch.By animating the graphs of mathematical functions we illuminate aspects of the graphing process which might otherwise go unnoticed. The focus of this paper is on curve fitting. APL and J provide the matrix divide function for finding the coefficients of the constant, linear, quadratic, cubic or nth degree polynomial which best fit a collection of data.Each of these polynomials also has a polynomial derivative. These derivatives are useful for three reasons. Select a point on the x-axis. The y-value of the polynomial is the height of the polynomial for that x-value. But the y-value of the derived polynomial for the chosen x-value provides information about the original polynomial in three ways. First the y-value for the chosen x-value is the slope of the original polynomial at that point. The second useful aspect of the derivative is that positive and negative values indicate when the original polynomial is increasing or decreasing. A derivative is one degree less than the original polynomial so for example, a cubic polynomial has a quadratic polynomial derivative.Applications will demonstrate how the slope of the tangent together with the use of images and color can enhance the reader's ability to assimilate data. These enhancements give additional meaning to graphs and add life to the data.
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When bears are blue and bulls are red
Alvord, Linda; Traberman, Tama
Follow ACM SIGAPL APL Quote Quad
, Volume 29 (2)
Association for Computing Machinery – Dec 1, 1998
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