Understanding Errors with par() and plot() in RStudio

=====================================================

In this article, we will delve into the world of R programming language, specifically focusing on two essential functions: par() and plot(). We will explore how these functions are used to control the appearance of plots in RStudio and discuss the potential errors that may occur when using them. Furthermore, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to resolve these issues.

Introduction

RStudio is an integrated development environment (IDE) for R, which provides a comprehensive set of tools for data analysis, visualization, and modeling. The par() function is used to control the appearance of plots in RStudio, while the plot() function creates a graphical representation of data. In this article, we will examine the errors that may occur when using these functions in RStudio and provide solutions to resolve them.

Understanding par() and plot()

par()

The par() function is used to control the appearance of plots in RStudio. It allows users to customize various aspects of the plot, such as the margins, font sizes, and axis labels. The basic syntax for the par() function is:

par(margin = c(top, right, bottom, left))

This code sets the margin for each side of the plot. For example, if we want to set the top margin to 1 inch, the right margin to 2 inches, and so on, we can use the following code:

par(margin = c(1, 2, 1, 2))

plot()

The plot() function creates a graphical representation of data. It takes various arguments, such as the type of plot, the x-axis values, and the y-axis values. The basic syntax for the plot() function is:

plot(x, y)

This code creates a simple line plot of the x-axis values against the corresponding y-axis values.

Errors with par() and plot()

In the given Stack Overflow post, users reported errors when using the par() and plot() functions in RStudio. The errors occurred when trying to create multiple plots in a single window.

Error 1: figure margins too large

The first error reported was “figure margins too large.” This error occurs when the plot is created with an excessive amount of space between the plot and the edges of the window.

> par(mfrow = c(2,1))
> plot(pressure$pressure~pressure$temperature)
Error in plot.new() : figure margins too large

To resolve this error, users can adjust the margin settings using the par() function. One possible solution is to set the top and bottom margins to 0:

> par(mar = c(1, 2, 1, 2))
> plot(pressure$pressure~pressure$temperature)

Error 2: invalid graphics state

The second error reported was “invalid graphics state.” This error occurs when the plot() function is called with an invalid graphics state.

> curve((0.168 + 0.007*x)^(20/3), from = 0, to = 400, add = TRUE)
Error in plot.xy(xy.coords(x, y), type = type, ...) : 
  invalid graphics state

To resolve this error, users can ensure that the plot() function is called with valid arguments. In this case, the issue was caused by adding a curve to the plot using the curve() function.

Error 3: figure margins too large (again)

The third error reported was again “figure margins too large.” This error occurs when the plot is created with an excessive amount of space between the plot and the edges of the window.

> plot(pressure$pressure^(3/20)~pressure$temperature)
Error in plot.new() : figure margins too large

To resolve this error, users can adjust the margin settings using the par() function. One possible solution is to set the top and bottom margins to 0:

> par(mar = c(1, 2, 1, 2))
> plot(pressure$pressure^(3/20)~pressure$temperature)

Error 4: invalid graphics state (again)

The fourth error reported was again “invalid graphics state.” This error occurs when the plot() function is called with an invalid graphics state.

> plot(x, y)
Error in plot.xy(xy.coords(x, y), type = type, ...) : 
  invalid graphics state

To resolve this error, users can ensure that the plot() function is called with valid arguments. In this case, the issue was caused by calling the plot() function without any arguments.

Resolution

In the given Stack Overflow post, users reported that changing the system scale level in the settings resolved the errors. Specifically, they changed the system scale level from 150% to 100%. This solution resolved the “figure margins too large” and “invalid graphics state” errors.

> options("devices") <- list(width = 4, height = 6)

This code sets the width and height of the plot device to 4 inches and 6 inches, respectively. By doing so, it reduces the amount of space between the plot and the edges of the window, resolving the “figure margins too large” error.

By following these steps, users can resolve the errors that occur when using the par() and plot() functions in RStudio. Specifically:

• Adjusting the margin settings using the par() function can resolve the “figure margins too large” error.
• Ensuring that the plot() function is called with valid arguments can resolve the “invalid graphics state” error.

By following these solutions, users can create high-quality plots in RStudio without encountering errors.

Last modified on 2025-04-30