MATLAB for Dummies

Synopsis

Go from total MATLAB newbie to plotting graphs and solving equations in a flash! 

MATLAB is one of the most powerful and commonly used tools in the STEM field. But did you know it doesn't take an advanced degree or a ton of computer experience to learn it? MATLAB For Dummies is the roadmap you've been looking for to simplify and explain this feature-filled tool. 

This handy reference walks you through every step of the way as you learn the MATLAB language and environment inside-and-out. Starting with straightforward basics before moving on to more advanced material like Live Functions and Live Scripts, this easy-to-read guide shows you how to make your way around MATLAB with screenshots and newly updated procedures.  It includes:

• A comprehensive introduction to installing MATLAB, using its interface, and creating and saving your first file 
• Fully updated to include the 2020 and 2021 updates to MATLAB, with all-new screenshots and up-to-date procedures 
• Enhanced debugging procedures and use of the Symbolic Math Toolbox 
• Brand new instruction on working with Live Scripts and Live Functions, designing classes, creating apps, and building projects 
• Intuitive walkthroughs for MATLAB's advanced features, including importing and exporting data and publishing your work 

Perfect for STEM students and new professionals ready to master one of the most powerful tools in the fields of engineering, mathematics, and computing, MATLAB For Dummies is the simplest way to go from complete newbie to power user faster than you would have thought possible. 

Summary

Chapter 1: Welcome to MATLAB

* Introduction to MATLAB as a powerful mathematical and technical computing platform.
* Real example: Plotting a simple sine function using `plot(sin(0:0.1:2*pi))`.

Chapter 2: Working with Variables and Data

* Creating and assigning values to variables, managing data types, and using vectors and matrices.
* Real example: Creating a vector of temperature readings `temp = [20, 25, 30, 35, 40];`.

Chapter 3: Mathematical Operations and Functions

* Performing basic arithmetic operations, using built-in mathematical functions (e.g., `sqrt()`, `exp()`), and implementing vectorized operations.
* Real example: Computing the volume of a sphere using `volume = (4/3) * pi * (10)^3`.

Chapter 4: Control Flow and Loops

* Using conditional statements (if-else), loop structures (for, while), and logical operators for decision-making.
* Real example: Iterating through a temperature dataset to find the highest reading using `max(temp)`.

Chapter 5: Functions and Script Files

* Writing MATLAB functions to encapsulate reusable code and organizing code using script files.
* Real example: Creating a function to convert Celsius to Fahrenheit temperatures, `celsius_to_fahrenheit(temp)`.

Chapter 6: Input and Output Operations

* Reading data from files, writing data to files, and displaying results in various formats.
* Real example: Importing a comma-delimited text file containing temperature readings using `data = csvread('temperatures.csv')`.

Chapter 7: Data Analysis and Statistics

* Performing data analysis, calculating statistical metrics, and visualizing results.
* Real example: Using `hist(temp)` to plot a histogram of the temperature readings, highlighting the distribution.

Chapter 8: Graphics and User Interface

* Creating plots, customizing axes, adding labels, and developing interactive user interfaces.
* Real example: Generating a scatter plot showing the relationship between temperature and humidity, `scatter(temp, humidity)`.

Chapter 9: Numerical Methods and Optimization

* Solving equations, solving optimization problems, and performing numerical calculations.
* Real example: Using MATLAB's built-in solver to find the roots of a polynomial equation.

Chapter 10: Advanced Topics

* Covering topics such as object-oriented programming, image processing, and symbolic computation.
* Real example: Working with image data to manipulate and enhance images.