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Plot_layout() function

As explained in Statistics Slam Dunk

The plot_layout() function from patchwork specifies how multiple plots are arranged in a composed graphical object.

Use plot_layout() from patchwork to combine separately created plots into one graphical object. Passing ncol = 2 places the plots side by side, making related summaries easier to compare. section 2.5.5

A typical workflow is:

  • Create and store each ggplot object, such as separate mean and median bar charts. section 2.5.5
  • Add the plots with + and specify plot_layout(ncol = 2) to arrange them in two columns. section 2.5.5
  • Read the resulting composite as a coordinated visual comparison, such as average versus median career win shares. section 2.5.5

Place two NBA charts side by side

After defining p5 as an average-win-shares bar chart and p6 as a median-win-shares bar chart, combine them with: p5 + p6 + plot_layout(ncol = 2). The same pattern combines Milwaukee Bucks charts for points scored and field-goal percentage at each second of a possession: MILp1 + MILp2 + plot_layout(ncol = 2). section 2.5.5 section 8.5.1

p5 + p6 + plot_layout(ncol = 2)

Inspect the complete two-column composition combining the average and median win-share plots. section 2.5.5

How Statistics Slam Dunk covers it

How deep it goes
Defines the ncol-based arrangement and demonstrates two-column output, but does not detail broader layout options.
Examples
Combines mean and median win-share charts and Milwaukee Bucks possession charts with ncol = 2.
What it assumes
Assumes familiarity with creating ggplot objects and introduces composition through the + operator and ncol argument.
What you can do after
Apply it via patchwork to place stored plots side by side in a single graphical object.
How it connects
Connects ggplot objects, patchwork, bar charts, line charts, and visual comparison.
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Related concepts

This explainer was generated by Manning's knowledge graph from the text of Statistics Slam Dunk. The section links point to the parts of the book it draws on.