Create a Scatter Plot Matrix

You can create a multi-cell graph that has a scatter plot matrix layout. Here is an example of a scatter plot matrix:
scatter plot matrix
Here are the characteristics of scatter plot matrices:
  • The matrix is a data-driven graph based on matrix variables.
  • The diagonal cells can be populated with a histogram and up to two density plots.
  • The non-diagonal cells contain a scatter plot for the crossing variables with an optional mean or prediction ellipse. When you change the plot properties for the scatter markers, the change is applied to all non-diagonal cells. (Exception: The wall and outline properties apply to all cells.)
  • You cannot change the properties of the histograms, density plots, and ellipses.
To create a scatter plot matrix:
  1. Select Filethen selectNewthen selectFrom Graph Gallery. The Graph Gallery opens.
  2. Select the Matrix tab.
  3. Select the predefined matrix graph that you want to use. You can choose from two different types:
    • NxN matrix: The first four predefined matrix graphs in the Graph Gallery create an NxN matrix. This matrix crosses all the values of one list of variables with all others, creating a square matrix with diagonal cells.
    • MxN matrix: The last two graphs in the Graph Gallery create an MxN matrix. This type of matrix crosses two lists of variables and creates a rectangular matrix without any diagonal cells.
  4. Click OK. The Assign Data dialog box opens.
  5. Specify the SAS library and data set you want to use for the plot by selecting the appropriate items from the Library and Data Set list boxes.
  6. In the Roles section, select the check box for each variable that you want in the graph. If you want to select all items, then select the check box in the heading.
    For an MxN matrix, select the variables from two lists, one for column variables and another for row variables.
  7. (NxN matrices only) In the Diagonal Cells section, select the plot types for the diagonal cells. You can choose a histogram and up to two density plots.
  8. If you want an ellipse to appear in the cells, do the following:
    1. Check the Ellipse check box.
    2. Select either Mean or Predicted.
    3. You can either change the Alpha value or keep the default value.
    For an NxN matrix, the ellipse appears in the non-diagonal cells.
  9. If you want a more descriptive name for the plot, enter the name in the Name field. This name identifies the plot in the Assign Data dialog box as well as in the Cell Properties dialog box.
    By default, the designer uses generic names for each plot. It is good practice to assign a descriptive name that indicates a response variable or some identifying characteristic of the plot.
  10. Click OK.
Here is an MxN rectangular matrix:
MxN rectangular matrix