Create a Shared-Variable Graph

To create a shared-variable graph, you first define one or more shared variables. Then, you add one or more plots and assign the shared variables to the plot roles.
To create a shared-variable graph:
  1. Select Filethen selectNewthen selectBlank Shared Variable Graph. The following occur:
    • A blank shared-variable graph is created. The graph is identified by a shared-variable icon Shared Variable icon in the top left corner.
    • The Assign Data dialog box opens and displays the Shared Variables tab. The other tabs are present but are dimmed.
    Shared Variables tab in the Assign Data dialog box
  2. In the Assign Data dialog box, specify the SAS library and data set that you want to use for the graph. Select the appropriate items from the Library and Data Set list boxes.
  3. Assign data variables to one or more shared variables:
    1. Select a data variable from the Variable list box.
    2. Select a variable type from the Type list box.
      Though you can leave the default Any type, it is good practice to specify a variable type. Some plots, such as histograms, require that the variable be a particular type.
      Once you specify a variable type, the Variable list box contains only the variables of that type.
    3. To add another shared variable, click the Add a Variable icon Add a Variable icon and then repeat the previous two steps for the new variable. Shared variables are identified as V1, V2, and so on.
    4. When you are finished assigning shared variables, click OK.
  4. Add a plot to the graph. For instructions, see Add a Plot to a Graph.
    The Assign Data dialog box opens and displays the Plot Variables tab.
  5. In the Variables section, assign a shared variable to each plot role that is listed. (Some roles might be optional.)
    For example, in the following display, you would assign a variable to the X and Y roles. For more information about plot roles, see About Plot Roles.
    Shared Variables tab in the Assign Data dialog box
    Note:
    • Only predefined shared variables are available from the list boxes.
    • Some plots require a variable of a specific type.
      For example, the analysis variable for a histogram must be a numeric type. If the shared variable used has a type of Any in the Shared Variable tab, then the ODS Graphics Designer displays a warning message and changes the type to numeric.
    • You cannot change the library or data set at this time. Their respective list boxes are dimmed.
    • The Fit an existing plot check box is not available for plot overlays, such as the normal plot. This check box is available only for non-shared-variable graphs.
    The procedure for assigning shared variables is similar to the procedure for assigning data variables. For more information, see Assign Data to a New Plot.
  6. Click OK.
Perform additional steps as needed to customize your graph. For example, you might add another plot or more cells to the graph, or specify panel variables. You can also add titles, footnotes, and make other changes to the graph. For more information about the tasks you can perform, see High-Level Steps for Designing Graphs.
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