User`s guide
Data Analysis
18-31
applied to most graphs (some plot types do not support brushing). Data brushing is an
exclusive, persistent mode. That is, when using it, you cannot use other figure tools, but
the results of brushing data persist when you select a different tool or no tool.
Use data linking to make plots dynamically respond to changes in the variables they
plot. Data linking applies to most graphs with identifiable data sources and operates
at the figure level. Data linking is not modal and persists until you toggle it off or the
connection between a plot and its data sources is broken.
The two tools work smoothly together and with the Variable Editor to visually highlight
brushed observations and the data values they represent:
• Brushing data-linked observations on a graph highlights them on other graphs that
display them.
• Brushing highlights values in the Variable Editor when a brushed variable is
displayed there.
• Using the Brush tool in the Variable Editor highlights values you brush that appear
in linked plots.
• Changing values of variables causes linked graphs displaying them to update with the
changes.
• Clearing variables disconnects them from all linked figures displaying graphs of them
You can modify variables from the command line, the Variable Editor, or with M-files.
When used within functions, data linking operates in the function's workspace, not the
base workspace. This is also the case when debugging.
Data Brushing Tool
All figure windows that contain axes now include a data brushing tool (the Brush/Select
data icon ) that lets you enter and exit brushing mode and select a color with
which to brush observations. The tool draws selection rectangles (in 2-D plots) or prisms
(in 3-D plots) and permits you to select discontiguous regions and negate previously
brushed observations. Undo is also supported.
The Brush/Select data tool is a “split button” control with a brush icon on the left and
a drop-down color palette on the right. When you depress the brush icon, you are in
brushing mode; all data observations you select are highlighted with the current brush
color. The figures below illustrate these operations.