Aspect ratio I: 1:1 ratios

We can set the aspect ratio of a plot with coord_fixed(), which uses ratio = 1 as a default. A 1:1 aspect ratio is most appropriate when two continuous variables are on the same scale, as with the iris dataset.

All variables are measured in centimeters, so it only makes sense that one unit on the plot should be the same physical distance on each axis. This gives a more truthful depiction of the relationship between the two variables since the aspect ratio can change the angle of our smoothing line. This would give an erroneous impression of the data. Of course the underlying linear models don't change, but our perception can be influenced by the angle drawn.

A plot using the iris dataset, of sepal width vs. sepal length colored by species, is shown in the viewer.

Add a fixed coordinate layer to force a 1:1 aspect ratio.

Exercise

Aspect ratio I: 1:1 ratios

Instructions