How to Plot Multiple Graphs in MATLAB

Learn how to plot multiple graphs in MATLAB using various techniques such as using the 'plot' function, 'subplot', 'hold on', and other useful methods for effective data visualization.
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How to Plot Multiple Graphs in MATLAB

MATLAB is a powerful tool for data visualization and analysis. Often, you need to plot multiple graphs to compare different datasets or visualize different aspects of your data. In this guide, we'll explore several methods to plot multiple graphs in MATLAB effectively.

Using the plot Function

The simplest way to plot multiple graphs is by using the plot function. You can plot multiple lines on the same graph by passing multiple sets of data to the function. Here's an example:

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In this example, -r specifies a red solid line for y1, and --b specifies a blue dashed line for y2.

Using hold on

The hold on command allows you to add multiple plots to the same axes incrementally. This is useful when you want to plot data in separate commands but on the same figure.

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The hold off command resets the hold state so that new plots replace the existing plots.

Using subplot

The subplot function is useful for displaying multiple plots in a grid layout within the same figure. This is helpful when you want to compare different plots side by side.

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In this example, we create a 3x1 grid of subplots and plot y1, y2, and y3 in separate subplots.

Combining subplot and hold on

You can combine the subplot and hold on commands to create more complex plots. For example, you might want to plot multiple lines within each subplot.

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This example demonstrates how to plot multiple lines within each subplot, allowing for detailed comparisons within each section.

Using figure for Separate Figures

If you prefer to display each plot in a separate window, use the figure function. This creates a new figure window for each plot.

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Each call to figure creates a new figure window, and subsequent plot commands apply to the current figure.

Conclusion

MATLAB provides versatile methods for plotting multiple graphs, whether you prefer combining plots in a single figure, using subplots for organized layouts, or creating separate figure windows. By leveraging these techniques, you can effectively visualize and compare multiple datasets to gain deeper insights from your data.