Graphics with R

In the course “Graphics with R” we describe methods for customizing R graphics using ggplot2. ggplot2 is an advanced and powerful tool for building graphics with R. In this course you will learn how to create refined, meaningful graphs in R to visually describe your research outputs. All topics are accompanied with hands-on exercises.

Topics:

• Getting started with ggplot2: understanding the logic and the “grammar” of ggplot2.
• Building different kinds of plots: scatterplots, bar charts, boxplots.
• Customizing graphics using different labels, axes and colors.
• Homogenizing the layout by optimizing legends and themes.
• Adding multiple layers to one graphic and arranging multiple figures onto one graph.

Before 2025 we also provided an introduction to base R graphics. This is not part of the course anymore.

Methods:

The course consists of lessons how to work with graphics in R and of hands-on examples with best-practice solutions.

Learning goals

Understand and Apply ggplot2 Basics

• Explain the foundational concepts of ggplot2's "grammar of graphics."
• Use ggplot2 to build clear and self-contained figures for complex data presentations.

Customize Graphics

• Discuss options to enhance interpretability of different kinds of plots.
• Modify color schemes, axes, and layers in base R graphics.

Homogenize Layout

• Optimize legends and themes.
• Arrange multiple plots within a single layout to create complex visualizations.

Practice Graphical Customization through Hands-On Exercises

• Apply customization techniques in ggplot2 to create polished, informative graphics.

Prerequisites

Programming skills with R, as taught in the course “Introduction to R”.

Target group

Scientists who already have basic knowledge in programming with R and want to learn more about how to build more advanced plots with R.

This course is free of charge.