Plotting in Python with Matplotlib

Python can be used to analyse or create large datasets. Visualising these datasets in plots can help you to understand them and to communicate their meaning to others, both of which are vital for good research. Using the Matplotlib package is the most common way to create plots in Python. It is a very powerful and versatile package which can work with a variety of types of data to produce many types of customisable figures.

In this course, you will learn to use Matplotlib to plot data in Python. You will learn to produce several types of plot, how to arrange multiple plots into an array of subplots, and how to save plots. This will allow you to produce high-quality visualisations for your research. You will be able to take away examples from the course and use them as templates for your own plots in other projects.

Syllabus: 

• Overview and the Matplotlib Gallery
• Plot types - discrete data
• Plot types - continuous data
• Plotting data with two dimensions
• Customising plots
• Multiple plots
• Saving plots
• Extended projects

This course is delivered through a combination of lecture-like content, examples, and hands-on exercises. This course is aimed at programmers who are comfortable with the basics of Python who want to learn to visualise their data graphically.

This course is open to Research Degree Students, Postdocs & Research Fellows. Limited spaces available for wider Imperial community.

Learning outcomes:

After completing this workshop, you will be better able to:

• Understand how to use example codes to create high-quality figures for your publications and thesis
• Create and export a variety of plots using matplotlib
• Represent multiple data series efficiently on a single plot
• Customise the appearance of plots and generate subplots in one figure 

Prerequisites

Basic knowledge of Python is essential. One place you could attain this is through studying the online course Introduction to Python for Researchers. Ideally an attendee will have used Python intensively for at least three months prior to attending this course. Python users who are already familiar with Matplotlib will gain less from this course as it is primarily aimed at those learning about this package for the first time. 

How to book

• Early Career Researchers (Research Degree Students, Postdocs, Research Fellows) should book via Inkpath using your Imperial Single-Sign-On.
• All other members of the Imperial community, should book here.

Please ensure you have read and understood ECRI’s cancellation policy before booking.