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.