MATLAB Blues: How Behavioral Scientists and Others Can Learn from Mistakes for Better, Happier Programming

MATLAB Blues is an accessible, comprehensive introduction to the MATLAB computer programming language--a powerful and increasingly popular tool for students and researchers. Rosenbaum identifies many of the common mistakes and pitfalls associated with using MATLAB, and shows users how they can learn from these mistakes to be better, happier programmers.

Each chapter systematically addresses one of the basic principles of the programming language, like matrices, calculations, contingencies, plotting, input-output, and graphics, and then identifies areas that are problematic, as well as potential errors that can occur. This not only provides the reader with the fundamental ＂scales and chords＂ that a MATLAB programmer needs to know, but also with a series of examples and explanations of how to avoid and remedy common mistakes.

Accompanied by an array of sample code that can be used and manipulated in conjunction with the textbook, this book is a practical, insightful introduction to MATLAB which provides motivation and encouragement to those with little or no background in programming as well as to those with more advanced concerns. It is an invaluable resource for researchers and students undertaking courses in research methods, statistics, and programming.

David A. Rosenbaum is Distinguished Professor of Psychology at University of California, Riverside, USA.