Getting Started with R: Loops and Functions

This workshop introduces the tools needed to write repeatable, efficient code. It is designed for anyone interested in writing their own code in R for simple tasks. By the end of this workshop, you will understand the differences between base R functions, functions in packages and user-defined functions. You will see how to install, load and call functions in R packages.  You will be able to identify the basic parts and purpose of built-in and user-defined functions and be able to define your own function. You will learn about conditional and flow statements and know how to use them. This workshop incorporates hands-on work, and there will be plenty of time for questions. Installing R and RStudio is not required for this workshop. We will work in a remote environment that will allow us to work in R without having to have R and RStudio installed on your personal machine.

Needed for attendees: Please bring your laptop, or arrange to borrow a laptop from the Libraries.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this Session, you will understand:

• The three types of functions
• The anatomy of a function
• How to install and use R Libraries
• How to use documentation, get help in RStudio
• How to import and save data
• How to use and write an if statement
• How to use and write a for loop
• How to use and write a while loop