Overview
This lecture introduces GraphPad Prism's interface, basic workflow, and essential features for data analysis and graph generation using sample datasets.
Starting a Prism Project
- Upon launching Prism, choose to create a new data table/graph or open an existing file.
- Prism offers eight types of data tables; use tutorials or sample data to learn their structure.
- Tutorial datasets provide instructions and goals directly on the datasheet via floating notes.
Navigating the Interface
- The toolbar includes sections for file management, sheet operations, analysis, drawing, text, and exporting.
- Use the navigator panel (left side) to organize and access data tables, info sheets, analysis results, graphs, and layouts.
- Linked sheets appear bold in the navigator; the family panel shows only sheets associated with the current selection.
Performing Analyses
- Start an analysis by clicking "Analyze" in the toolbar, then select the desired test (e.g., one-way ANOVA).
- Customize analysis parameters (e.g., matched/paired data, distribution assumptions) in the dialog tabs.
- To compare group means, enable multiple comparisons and specify comparison types.
- Analysis results appear in separate sheets/tabs: main results (e.g., F-statistic, p-value) and multiple comparisons (pairwise results, confidence intervals, group averages, sample size).
- The "Interpret" button links to an online checklist explaining analysis choices and assumptions.
Graph Creation and Customization
- The first time you view a graph, the change graph dialog lets you choose graph style (e.g., bar, box, violin, scatter plot).
- Re-open the change graph dialog anytime from the toolbar.
- Use the change section for graph customization, including axes, grid lines, tick marks, titles, and fonts.
- The format graph dialog allows editing dataset appearances (symbols, colors, lines, error bars) and dataset order or presence.
Exporting Graphs
- Export your graph using the export button; set file name, location, format (e.g., JPEG, TIFF), resolution, background, and color space.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Navigator Panel — Organizes project sheets (data tables, results, graphs) for easy access.
- Floating Notes — On-sheet notes providing instructions or user comments.
- One-way ANOVA — Statistical test comparing means across three or more groups.
- Multiple Comparisons — Statistical method to compare all pairs of group means.
- Format Graph Dialog — Tool for customizing graph appearance and datasets.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Explore tutorial data sets for various data table types in Prism.
- Practice customizing and exporting graphs with your own or sample data.
- Review the online analysis checklist when interpreting your analysis results.