Overview (MATRIX-END MATRIX command)
The MATRIX
and END MATRIX
commands enclose statements
that are executed by the matrix processor. Using matrix programs, you can write your own
statistical routines in the compact language of matrix algebra. Matrix programs can
include mathematical calculations, control structures, display of results, and reading
and writing matrices as character files or data files.
As discussed below, a matrix program is for the most part independent of the rest of the session, although it can read and write IBM® SPSS® Statistics data files, including the active dataset.
This section does not attempt to explain the rules of matrix algebra. Many textbooks teach the application of matrix methods to statistics.
The MATRIX
procedure was originally developed at the Madison Academic
Computing Center, University of Wisconsin.
Using open datasets
Use of datasets that are currently open in a session is not supported, except as specifically noted for the active dataset.