Explain Codes LogoExplain Codes Logo

Purpose of "%matplotlib inline"

python
matplotlib
jupyter
data-visualization
Nikita BarsukovbyNikita Barsukov·Aug 16, 2024
TLDR

Implement %matplotlib inline for in-place matplotlib graph rendering in Jupyter notebooks:

%matplotlib inline

Placed at the notebook's beginning, it generates inline, static images of your plot. This acts as a contributing agent easing your data visualization, enabling you to work seamlessly within the notebook environment.

Why use "%matplotlib inline"?

No more intrusive pop-ups

Using %matplotlib inline spares you the suffering of successive pop-up windows. It renders plots directly within your Jupyter notebook, seamlessly blending your code, graphs, and descriptions.

Reproducibility

Share your notebooks with graphs using %matplotlib inline. This constrains your plots within the notebook, promoting reliability and replicability. It truly embodies the spirit of "this is exactly what I saw, you see it too".

The joy of simplicity

With %matplotlib inline, the plt.show() call is optional. Unnecessarily verbose function calls get a sublime goodbye. As they say, "Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication."

Interactive plots with %matplotlib notebook

When static isn’t enough

Everyone loves multiplicity, and our plots are no different. Use %matplotlib notebook to get interactive matplotlib plots. Dig deeper, adjust on the go, and discover data secrets hidden in the layers of interaction.

The backends role

Remember that matplotlib relies on backends which are the engines purring under your plots' hood. %matplotlib inline chooses inline for fast, static plotting. When animation or widget integration calls, answer with nbagg and %matplotlib notebook.

Mind the order

Always run %matplotlib prior to importing matplotlib or executing your first plt function. It’s equivalent to setting the stage before the play—protocol matters.

Maximising user experience with "%matplotlib inline"

The plot tranquillity

A serene environment fuels productivity—your plotting space isn't an exception. %matplotlib inline reduces unnecessary context switches between your codes and graphs, aiding cognitive focus for more profound insights.

Preparing for publication

The usefulness of %matplotlib inline transcends convenience—it also guarantees publication-ready figures. Typography, size, and resolution maintain their consistency, raising the bar for quality even in a notebook environment.

The magic commands spectrum

Extend beyond %matplotlib inline and %matplotlib notebook—there's %matplotlib qt for GUI-based actions and %matplotlib for resetting to defaults. These magic commands provide a custom fit, catering to your diverse visualization needs.