6 Parting words
This short book introduces the basics to getting started with using R beyond data analysis.
The book promotes an integrated workflow where r has a pivotal role. With the help of r and the associated tools, such as RStudio and GitHub, we have seen how we can create automatized reports to reduce repetitive tasks (Chapter 3). We have also seen that we can create our own websites and publish online books (Chapter 4). Finally, we have also seen that we can write web applications to engage with our audience (Chapter 5).
Taken together, and in due time, one can create for oneself a work routine that from the start adheres to open science practicies and in so doing makes their own work reproducible, transparent, and publically available.
R is a powerful programming language that can help in transitioning from close-ended data analysis software such as SPSS to programming-based data analysis. One benefit of this is that through r one can discover a universe of new possibilities – for example, linking data analysis with communication strategies.
r is but one of the possible programming languages. The more one becomes accustomed with a programming-based logic in handling data, the easier it gets to integrate other programming languages into their workflow. For example, through their integrated development environment (IDE) of choice – in this case we’ve used RStudio.
RStudio facilitates the seamless integration of various programming languages (e.g., r, python, Julia) in enhanced documents (e.g., RMarkdown, Quarto) from which powerful and dynamic output files can be generated.
This short book was meant as a beginner’s guide. Throughout the book advanced resources have been introduced.
And remember…
Begin small but, aim high.
Advanced resources
If you still are not convinced of how powerful R can be, then what about this: You can create art using r. That is right! There are several packages available that can help you get in touch with your creative side while not ignoring your love for data!
r generated art using the package aRtsy.aRtsy package is downloadable as explained here and attributed to Derks (2023).
Danielle Navarro provides a workshop for art from code using R: see here.