Speaking Stata: Paired, Parallel, or Profile Plots for Changes, Correlations, and Other Comparisons

Abstract

Paired, parallel, or profile plots showing the values of two variables may be constructed readily using a combination of graph twoway commands. This column explores the principles and practice of such plot-making, considering both wide and long (panel or longitudinal) data structures in which such data may appear. Applications include analysis of change over time or space and indeed any kind of correlation or comparison between variables. Such plots may be extended to show numeric values and associated name information.