Getting Started with MATLAB

MATLAB stands for Matrix Laboratory. It is a high-performance language that is used for technical computing. It was developed by Cleve Molar of the company MathWorks.Inc in the year 1984. It is written in C, C++, Java. It allows matrix manipulations, plotting of functions, implementation of algorithms and creation of user interfaces. It is both a programming language and a programming environment. It allows the computation of statements in the command window itself.

Although MATLAB is intended primarily for numerical computing, an optional toolbox uses the MuPAD symbolic engine allowing access to symbolic computing abilities. An additional package, simulink, adds graphical multi-domain simulation and model-based design for dynamic and embedded systems.

Accessing Matlab

To access Matlab you need to visit their official website: https://in.mathworks.com/products/matlab.html

Before accessing Matlab you need to take some points into consideration:-

To access Matlab you need an email id which is associated with an organization/university which has a license to use Matlab
After login to Matlab account, you can either download it on your local machine or you can use their web interface.
If you are thinking of downloading Matlab online client then you need a minimum of 8-10 GB of storage on your hard disk and good quality of processor as well as GPU.
It is advisable to use Matlab online client as it is easy to access.
To access Matlab online you need to visit the following URL https://matlab.mathworks.com/

Understanding User Interface

After successful login into Matlab you will be prompt with a screen:

Matlab user interface image

Home

At the left middle side, we have our current working directory where all folder of your Matlab drives is shown.
At the left bottom corner in WORKSPACE section, you will have all the variables you are working in the current project.
At top row, we have an option for New Script, New Live script, Import Data, Layout, Add-ons and some other basic features. That helps you to perform various operations.

Plots

In plots section, you will have options to draw plots and charts for your variables.
You first need to select a variable on which you want to draw the plot.
After selecting a variable you will have the following user interface

Matlab Plot Image

After selecting a variable you will have many options for plots like normal plots, area, bar, pie chart, histogram, etc.