Spurious correlation #1,448 · View random
A linear line chart with years as the X-axis and two variables on the Y-axis. The first variable is xkcd comics published about statistics and the second variable is The number of concierges in Ohio. The chart goes from 2007 to 2022, and the two variables track closely in value over that time.

A linear line chart with years as the X-axis and two variables on the Y-axis. The first variable is xkcd comics published about statistics and the second variable is The number of concierges in Ohio. The chart goes from 2007 to 2022, and the two variables track closely in value over that time.

Download png, svg

AI explanation

The xkcd comics about statistics were so pun-derful that they attracted more people to the field, leading to a higher demand for concierges who could expertly guide clients through the intricate world of statistics. It was a chi-squared affair - as the comics' popularity rose, so did the need for Ohio concierges to help people chart their way through the data-driven humor. This unexpected correlation left everyone in a state of comic confusion, but at least it added up to a statistically significant surge in the concierge industry!

^{Show image generation prompt} Model: dalle-3
Prompt: Generate a cute 2D animation of a warm and cozy Ohio hotel lobby. In the background, a framed xkcd comic about statistics is humorously showcased on the wall with colorful data visualizations. Nearby, a friendly concierge assists a guest with a warm smile, adding to the welcoming atmosphere. The scene is filled with inviting warmth and charm. The depiction should include only scenes, people, and objects, it should not include text or speech bubbles.

This image generation prompt was also generated by AI, using the following sequence:

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You select one of a few potential scene descriptors that seems to go along with the variables described. You respond only with the scene descriptions provided and say nothing else.
User prompt: Here are two variables: xkcd comics published about statistics and The number of concierges in Ohio. Given these, which of the following image style descriptions seems most appropriate? Pick the one that seems to be related to one of the variables at hand. Please respond with only one of the following potential descriptions: Voxel art Pop art Cute 2D animation Sci-fi fantacy Minimalism
ChatGPT: Cute 2D animation

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You describe simple visual scenes that depict the two variables stated. You combine both variables into one scene.
User prompt: Please describe a visual scene that prominently depicts both xkcd comics published about statistics and The number of concierges in Ohio together. Keep the description simple.
ChatGPT: In a cozy Ohio hotel lobby, a framed xkcd comic about statistics hangs on the wall, showcasing humorous data visualizations. Nearby, a friendly concierge assists a guest with a warm smile, adding to the welcoming atmosphere.

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You write and improve image generation prompts for DALLE-3. You maintain the same subjects, but enhance the visuals.
User prompt: Please respond with an image generation prompt that would be likely to create an interesting visual using DALLE-3, using the following style: [ Cute 2D animation ] and depicting this scene: In a cozy Ohio hotel lobby, a framed xkcd comic about statistics hangs on the wall, showcasing humorous data visualizations. Nearby, a friendly concierge assists a guest with a warm smile, adding to the welcoming atmosphere. Keep the visual depiction simple. Do not include any words or speech bubbles.
ChatGPT: Generate a cute 2D animation of a warm and cozy Ohio hotel lobby. In the background, a framed xkcd comic about statistics is humorously showcased on the wall with colorful data visualizations. Nearby, a friendly concierge assists a guest with a warm smile, adding to the welcoming atmosphere. The scene is filled with inviting warmth and charm.

*Variations in the User Prompts from chart to chart are just the result of random number generation in Python. I wrote a few arrays of various styles and methods to ask questions to change up the results. Every time this site writes an explanation or generates an image, the script picks from each at random.

I sequence the requests into multiple prompts because I find GPT 3.5 to perform much better with short, well-managed contexts. Thus, I track the context directly in Python and only ask ChatGPT targeted questions.
^{Show prompt for explanation} Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106 (fine-tuned)
System prompt: You provide humorous responses in the form of plausible sounding explanations for correlations. You assume the correlation is causative for the purpose of the explanation even if it is ridiculous. You do not chat with the user, you only reply with the causal connection explanation and nothing else.
User prompt: Please make up a funny explanation for how an increase in xkcd comics published about statistics caused The number of concierges in Ohio to increase. Include one good pun.

AI academic paper

(Because p < 0.01)

Statistically Speaking: The Concierge Correlation - A Data-Driven Analysis of xkcd Comics and Concierge Count in Ohio

The Journal of Quirky Computational Studies

Jan 2024

Reminder: This paper is AI-generated. Not real!

^{Show prompt used to generate this paper} Quick note: This sequence is long and repetitive. That's how the prompt engineering works for this one. I manage the output in Python to format it into this PDF.

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a dry but witty academic researcher. You speak in the passive voice, and your writing sounds like it belongs in a medical or economics journal.You draft a literature review section of an academic research paper, that starts out dry for the first few sentences but then becomes hilarious and goofy.
User prompt:
Pretend you are an academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a medical or economics journal. However, you frequently crack jokes, make puns, or add unexpected twists in your writing.

Please make up a literature review section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between xkcd comics published about statistics and The number of concierges in Ohio. Make lots of jokes, goofy observations, and puns.

Speak in the present tense for this section (the authors find...), as is common in academic research paper literature reviews. Name the sources in a format similar to this: In "Book," the authors find lorem and ipsum.

Make up the lorem and ipsum part, but make it sound related to the topic at hand.

Start by naming serious-sounding studies by authors like Smith, Doe, and Jones - but then quickly devolve. Name some real non-fiction books that would be related to the topic. Then name some real fiction books that sound like they could be related. Then name a couple popular internet memes that are related to one of the topics.

Here is the title and abstract of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
"Statistically Speaking: The Concierge Correlation - A Data-Driven Analysis of xkcd Comics and Concierge Count in Ohio"

[[ABSTRACT]]
This paper examines the relationship between the beloved xkcd comics that humorously depict statistics and the often-overlooked population of concierges in the state of Ohio. Through a rigorous analysis of xkcd comics published from 2007 to 2022, combined with data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, our research team uncovered a surprising correlation coefficient of 0.9207260 and p < 0.01. The implications of this correlation are explored, providing both statistical insight and plenty of comic relief. With puns and playful analysis in equal measure, this paper brings humor to the forefront of statistical inquiry while shedding light on an unexpected connection between seemingly unrelated phenomena.

-------

And here is the introduction section that led to this literature review:
[[INTRODUCTION]]
In the world of statistics, where numbers reign supreme and data analysis is king, the search for unexpected correlations is akin to a scientific treasure hunt. It is in this spirit of exploration that we turn our attention to the whimsical world of xkcd comics, the beloved source of statistical humor for nerds of all stripes, and the modest but mighty population of concierges in the state of Ohio.
While one might initially dismiss the notion of a connection between xkcd comics and the number of concierges in Ohio as a statistical flight of fancy, the data tell a different story. Our research team, armed with an enthusiasm for both punchlines and p-values, embarked on a journey to explore this unlikely pairing. As we delved into the archives of xkcd comics from 2007 to 2022 and cross-referenced the data with the Bureau of Labor Statistics, we uncovered a relationship worthy of further investigation - a correlation coefficient of 0.9207260 with a p-value less than 0.01.
You might be thinking, "What does a webcomic about stick figures and a group of professional door-openers have in common?" Well, dear reader, that's the very question that sparked our curiosity and led to this unconventional study. The implications of this correlation are as intriguing as they are unexpected. By bringing together the worlds of statistical humor and the unassuming occupation of concierge services, we aim to shed light on the interconnectedness of seemingly disparate phenomena.
In the course of our investigation, we found ourselves navigating the sometimes murky waters of statistical analysis with the same sense of wonder and amusement as a child at a science museum - albeit with fewer dinosaur replicas and more Excel spreadsheets. Through a blend of rigorous methodology and an unabashed appreciation for the absurd, this paper sets out to showcase the lighter side of quantitative inquiry while revealing a surprising correlation that is sure to raise more than a few eyebrows. So, buckle up for a journey through the world of xkcd whimsy and the unsung heroes of hotel lobbies - together, we'll uncover the statistically significant, yet delightfully improbable, Concierge Correlation.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]

ChatGPT:
[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]

The literature surrounding the correlation between xkcd comics and the number of concierges in Ohio is, regrettably, rather limited. Smith's seminal work in "Statistics and Pop Culture" provides a comprehensive overview of the influence of popular media on public perception of statistical concepts, yet fails to explore the specific intersection of webcomics and professional hospitality. Meanwhile, Doe's extensive analysis in "Labor Trends in the Midwest" offers a detailed examination of employment patterns in Ohio, but makes no mention of the potential impact of statistical humor on the state's service industry. Jones' study in "Quantitative Analysis of Humor in Online Content" delves into the characteristics that make internet humor engaging, but overlooks the unique charm of stick-figure-based statistical satire.

Turning our attention to non-fiction works with potential relevance to this study, Levitt and Dubner's "Freakonomics" presents a thought-provoking exploration of unexpected correlations in diverse domains, although the specific connection to webcomics and concierge staffing levels remains unexplored. Meanwhile, Silver's "The Signal and the Noise" offers valuable insights into uncovering meaningful patterns within data, which may inform our interpretation of the xkcd and concierge correlation, though the book regrettably lacks mention of webcomics and hotel employees.

In the realm of fiction, our journey into the literary landscape uncovers Atwood's "The Handmaid's Tale," a gripping narrative that, though unrelated to statistics and concierges, certainly captures the attention. Furthermore, Orwell's "1984" paints a bleak dystopian picture, serving as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of overlooking seemingly innocuous correlations.
Shifting focus to internet culture, the infamous "What If?" meme, which frequently features in discussions of improbable hypothetical scenarios, encapsulates the ethos of our investigation. Similarly, the "This is Fine" meme, with its resilient canine amidst chaos, mirrors the improbable yet oddly tenacious nature of the xkcd and concierge correlation we seek to unravel.

It is evident that while the literature presents intriguing and thought-provoking perspectives on a variety of topics, the peculiar nexus of xkcd comics and concierge count in Ohio remains a largely uncharted territory. This dearth of scholarly attention only serves to underscore the novelty and significance of our current inquiry.

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a dry but witty academic researcher. You speak in the passive voice, and your writing sounds like it belongs in a medical or economics journal.You draft the methodology section of an academic research paper.
User prompt:
Pretend you are an academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a medical or economics journal. However, you frequently crack jokes, make puns, or add unexpected twists in your writing.

Please make up the methodology section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between xkcd comics published about statistics and The number of concierges in Ohio. Make lots of jokes, goofy observations, and puns. Sneak in some jokes and clever puns about science, research, statistics, and the variables.

Your research team collected data from all across the internet, but mostly just used information from AI analysis of xkcd comics and Bureau of Larbor Statistics . You used data from 2007 to 2022

Make up the research methods you don't know. Make them a bit goofy and convoluted.

Here is the title, abstract, and introduction of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
"Statistically Speaking: The Concierge Correlation - A Data-Driven Analysis of xkcd Comics and Concierge Count in Ohio"

[[ABSTRACT]]
This paper examines the relationship between the beloved xkcd comics that humorously depict statistics and the often-overlooked population of concierges in the state of Ohio. Through a rigorous analysis of xkcd comics published from 2007 to 2022, combined with data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, our research team uncovered a surprising correlation coefficient of 0.9207260 and p < 0.01. The implications of this correlation are explored, providing both statistical insight and plenty of comic relief. With puns and playful analysis in equal measure, this paper brings humor to the forefront of statistical inquiry while shedding light on an unexpected connection between seemingly unrelated phenomena.

[[INTRODUCTION]]
In the world of statistics, where numbers reign supreme and data analysis is king, the search for unexpected correlations is akin to a scientific treasure hunt. It is in this spirit of exploration that we turn our attention to the whimsical world of xkcd comics, the beloved source of statistical humor for nerds of all stripes, and the modest but mighty population of concierges in the state of Ohio.
While one might initially dismiss the notion of a connection between xkcd comics and the number of concierges in Ohio as a statistical flight of fancy, the data tell a different story. Our research team, armed with an enthusiasm for both punchlines and p-values, embarked on a journey to explore this unlikely pairing. As we delved into the archives of xkcd comics from 2007 to 2022 and cross-referenced the data with the Bureau of Labor Statistics, we uncovered a relationship worthy of further investigation - a correlation coefficient of 0.9207260 with a p-value less than 0.01.
You might be thinking, "What does a webcomic about stick figures and a group of professional door-openers have in common?" Well, dear reader, that's the very question that sparked our curiosity and led to this unconventional study. The implications of this correlation are as intriguing as they are unexpected. By bringing together the worlds of statistical humor and the unassuming occupation of concierge services, we aim to shed light on the interconnectedness of seemingly disparate phenomena.
In the course of our investigation, we found ourselves navigating the sometimes murky waters of statistical analysis with the same sense of wonder and amusement as a child at a science museum - albeit with fewer dinosaur replicas and more Excel spreadsheets. Through a blend of rigorous methodology and an unabashed appreciation for the absurd, this paper sets out to showcase the lighter side of quantitative inquiry while revealing a surprising correlation that is sure to raise more than a few eyebrows. So, buckle up for a journey through the world of xkcd whimsy and the unsung heroes of hotel lobbies - together, we'll uncover the statistically significant, yet delightfully improbable, Concierge Correlation.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[METHODOLOGY]]

ChatGPT:

[[METHODOLOGY]]

To uncover the elusive connection between xkcd comics and the population of concierges in Ohio, a multidimensional approach was employed. The data collection process involved meticulous scrutiny of xkcd comic strips related to statistics, along with labor statistics pertaining to concierge employment in the state of Ohio. The xkcd comic strips from the period of 2007 to 2022 were scrutinized for any mention, depiction, or nuanced reference to statistical concepts, employing the cutting-edge method of AI analysis. The Bureau of Labor Statistics provided the necessary data on the count of concierges in Ohio during the same time frame.

Utilizing a novel approach known as "comic profiling," the research team identified and categorized xkcd comics based on their statistical content. This involved scrutinizing each comic panel to detect any statistical references or equations hidden in the humorous illustrations. Furthermore, a specialized algorithm was developed to assess the level of statistical relevance and humor quotient of each comic strip.

In parallel, the labor statistics pertaining to the concierge workforce in Ohio were meticulously tabulated and cross-referenced, employing state-of-the-art data analysis techniques. The unexpected combination of xkcd comics and concierge statistics demanded a unique blend of data processing methods, resembling a statistical fusion cuisine.

The process of correlation analysis entailed the application of various statistical tests, including Pearson's correlation coefficient and regression analysis. These analytical tools were wielded with precision, likened to conducting a musical symphony of statistical significance.

The resulting correlation coefficient of 0.9207260, combined with a p-value less than 0.01, underscored the robustness of the statistically significant association between xkcd comics about statistics and the number of concierges in Ohio. While the unconventional nature of these variables raised eyebrows, the comprehensive methodology employed in this study ensured the integrity and validity of the findings, much like a trusty pocket protector guards the sanctity of a statistician's calculations.

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a dry but witty academic researcher. You speak in the passive voice, and your writing sounds like it belongs in a medical or economics journal.You draft the results section of an academic research paper. You speak in the past tense (you found...).
User prompt:
Pretend you are an academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a medical or economics journal. However, you frequently crack jokes, make puns, or add unexpected twists in your writing.

Please make up the results section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between xkcd comics published about statistics and The number of concierges in Ohio. Make lots of jokes, goofy observations, and puns. Sneak in some jokes and clever puns about science, research, statistics, and the variables.

Your research team collected data from all across the internet, but mostly just used information from AI analysis of xkcd comics and Bureau of Larbor Statistics .

For the time period 2007 to 2022, you found a correlation 0.9207260, r-squared of 0.8477364, and p < 0.01.

One figure will be included. The figure (Fig. 1) is a scatterplot showing the strong correlation between the two variables. You don't need to specify where; I will add the figure.

Here is the title and abstract of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
"Statistically Speaking: The Concierge Correlation - A Data-Driven Analysis of xkcd Comics and Concierge Count in Ohio"

[[ABSTRACT]]
This paper examines the relationship between the beloved xkcd comics that humorously depict statistics and the often-overlooked population of concierges in the state of Ohio. Through a rigorous analysis of xkcd comics published from 2007 to 2022, combined with data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, our research team uncovered a surprising correlation coefficient of 0.9207260 and p < 0.01. The implications of this correlation are explored, providing both statistical insight and plenty of comic relief. With puns and playful analysis in equal measure, this paper brings humor to the forefront of statistical inquiry while shedding light on an unexpected connection between seemingly unrelated phenomena.

-------

And here is the methodology section that led to this result:
[[METHODOLOGY]]
In the world of statistics, where numbers reign supreme and data analysis is king, the search for unexpected correlations is akin to a scientific treasure hunt. It is in this spirit of exploration that we turn our attention to the whimsical world of xkcd comics, the beloved source of statistical humor for nerds of all stripes, and the modest but mighty population of concierges in the state of Ohio.
While one might initially dismiss the notion of a connection between xkcd comics and the number of concierges in Ohio as a statistical flight of fancy, the data tell a different story. Our research team, armed with an enthusiasm for both punchlines and p-values, embarked on a journey to explore this unlikely pairing. As we delved into the archives of xkcd comics from 2007 to 2022 and cross-referenced the data with the Bureau of Labor Statistics, we uncovered a relationship worthy of further investigation - a correlation coefficient of 0.9207260 with a p-value less than 0.01.
You might be thinking, "What does a webcomic about stick figures and a group of professional door-openers have in common?" Well, dear reader, that's the very question that sparked our curiosity and led to this unconventional study. The implications of this correlation are as intriguing as they are unexpected. By bringing together the worlds of statistical humor and the unassuming occupation of concierge services, we aim to shed light on the interconnectedness of seemingly disparate phenomena.
In the course of our investigation, we found ourselves navigating the sometimes murky waters of statistical analysis with the same sense of wonder and amusement as a child at a science museum - albeit with fewer dinosaur replicas and more Excel spreadsheets. Through a blend of rigorous methodology and an unabashed appreciation for the absurd, this paper sets out to showcase the lighter side of quantitative inquiry while revealing a surprising correlation that is sure to raise more than a few eyebrows. So, buckle up for a journey through the world of xkcd whimsy and the unsung heroes of hotel lobbies - together, we'll uncover the statistically significant, yet delightfully improbable, Concierge Correlation.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[RESULTS]]

ChatGPT:

[[RESULTS]]

The data analysis yielded a noteworthy correlation coefficient of 0.9207260 and an r-squared of 0.8477364, with a p-value of less than 0.01, indicating a strong relationship between xkcd comics about statistics and the number of concierges in Ohio. This unexpected finding highlights the captivating interconnectedness of seemingly unrelated concepts and adds a dash of whimsy to the world of statistical inquiry.

The strong positive correlation uncovered in our analysis suggests that as the frequency of xkcd comics featuring statistical humor increased over the years, so did the number of concierges employed in Ohio. This curious relationship may prompt one to ponder the potential influence of statistical wit on the demand for concierge services or vice versa, a conundrum that tickles the boundaries of statistical probability. The implications of this correlation are both thought-provoking and delightfully peculiar, underscoring the importance of exploring unconventional avenues in quantitative research.

Additionally, the scatterplot (Fig. 1) visually demonstrates the robust correlation between the variables, providing a striking visual representation of this unexpected connection. The scatterplot serves not only as a testament to the power of statistical analysis but also as a lighthearted reminder that even the most absurd-seeming relationships can have underlying significance.

In summary, the results of this analysis underscore the potential for uncovering intriguing associations in unlikely places, from the humor-laden realm of webcomics to the unassuming world of concierge services. This study opens the door to further exploration of the whimsical and the wondrous in statistical research, inviting scholars and enthusiasts alike to embrace the unexpected with open arms and a healthy dose of statistical skepticism.

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a dry but witty academic researcher. You speak in the passive voice, and your writing sounds like it belongs in a medical or economics journal.You draft the discussion section of an academic research paper.
User prompt:
Pretend you are an academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a medical or economics journal. However, you frequently crack jokes, make puns, or add unexpected twists in your writing.

Please make up the discussion section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between xkcd comics published about statistics and The number of concierges in Ohio. Make lots of jokes, goofy observations, and puns. Sneak in some jokes and clever puns about science, research, statistics, and the variables.

Limit your response to 500 tokens.

Here are the title, abstract, literature review, and results sections. Please harken back to 1-2 of the goofy items in the literature review, but pretend to take them completely seriously. Discuss how your results supported the prior research.

Do not write a conclusion. I will add a conclusion after this.

[[TITLE]]
"Statistically Speaking: The Concierge Correlation - A Data-Driven Analysis of xkcd Comics and Concierge Count in Ohio"

[[ABSTRACT]]
This paper examines the relationship between the beloved xkcd comics that humorously depict statistics and the often-overlooked population of concierges in the state of Ohio. Through a rigorous analysis of xkcd comics published from 2007 to 2022, combined with data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, our research team uncovered a surprising correlation coefficient of 0.9207260 and p < 0.01. The implications of this correlation are explored, providing both statistical insight and plenty of comic relief. With puns and playful analysis in equal measure, this paper brings humor to the forefront of statistical inquiry while shedding light on an unexpected connection between seemingly unrelated phenomena.

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]
The literature surrounding the correlation between xkcd comics and the number of concierges in Ohio is, regrettably, rather limited. Smith's seminal work in "Statistics and Pop Culture" provides a comprehensive overview of the influence of popular media on public perception of statistical concepts, yet fails to explore the specific intersection of webcomics and professional hospitality. Meanwhile, Doe's extensive analysis in "Labor Trends in the Midwest" offers a detailed examination of employment patterns in Ohio, but makes no mention of the potential impact of statistical humor on the state's service industry. Jones' study in "Quantitative Analysis of Humor in Online Content" delves into the characteristics that make internet humor engaging, but overlooks the unique charm of stick-figure-based statistical satire.
Turning our attention to non-fiction works with potential relevance to this study, Levitt and Dubner's "Freakonomics" presents a thought-provoking exploration of unexpected correlations in diverse domains, although the specific connection to webcomics and concierge staffing levels remains unexplored. Meanwhile, Silver's "The Signal and the Noise" offers valuable insights into uncovering meaningful patterns within data, which may inform our interpretation of the xkcd and concierge correlation, though the book regrettably lacks mention of webcomics and hotel employees.
In the realm of fiction, our journey into the literary landscape uncovers Atwood's "The Handmaid's Tale," a gripping narrative that, though unrelated to statistics and concierges, certainly captures the attention. Furthermore, Orwell's "1984" paints a bleak dystopian picture, serving as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of overlooking seemingly innocuous correlations.
Shifting focus to internet culture, the infamous "What If?" meme, which frequently features in discussions of improbable hypothetical scenarios, encapsulates the ethos of our investigation. Similarly, the "This is Fine" meme, with its resilient canine amidst chaos, mirrors the improbable yet oddly tenacious nature of the xkcd and concierge correlation we seek to unravel.
It is evident that while the literature presents intriguing and thought-provoking perspectives on a variety of topics, the peculiar nexus of xkcd comics and concierge count in Ohio remains a largely uncharted territory. This dearth of scholarly attention only serves to underscore the novelty and significance of our current inquiry.

[[RESULTS]]
The data analysis yielded a noteworthy correlation coefficient of 0.9207260 and an r-squared of 0.8477364, with a p-value of less than 0.01, indicating a strong relationship between xkcd comics about statistics and the number of concierges in Ohio. This unexpected finding highlights the captivating interconnectedness of seemingly unrelated concepts and adds a dash of whimsy to the world of statistical inquiry.
The strong positive correlation uncovered in our analysis suggests that as the frequency of xkcd comics featuring statistical humor increased over the years, so did the number of concierges employed in Ohio. This curious relationship may prompt one to ponder the potential influence of statistical wit on the demand for concierge services or vice versa, a conundrum that tickles the boundaries of statistical probability. The implications of this correlation are both thought-provoking and delightfully peculiar, underscoring the importance of exploring unconventional avenues in quantitative research.
Additionally, the scatterplot (Fig. 1) visually demonstrates the robust correlation between the variables, providing a striking visual representation of this unexpected connection. The scatterplot serves not only as a testament to the power of statistical analysis but also as a lighthearted reminder that even the most absurd-seeming relationships can have underlying significance.
In summary, the results of this analysis underscore the potential for uncovering intriguing associations in unlikely places, from the humor-laden realm of webcomics to the unassuming world of concierge services. This study opens the door to further exploration of the whimsical and the wondrous in statistical research, inviting scholars and enthusiasts alike to embrace the unexpected with open arms and a healthy dose of statistical skepticism.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[DISCUSSION]]

ChatGPT:

[[DISCUSSION]]

The results of our study have unearthed a truly remarkable correlation between xkcd comics about statistics and the number of concierges in Ohio, emphasizing the intriguing and often bewildering nature of statistical relationships. This unexpected association prompts us to reconsider the impact of statistical humor on the labor market and vice versa, making us wonder whether concierges have been surreptitiously influencing the themes of xkcd comics all along. The robustness of the correlation coefficient, combined with the visually compelling scatterplot, provides compelling evidence for this hitherto unnoticed phenomenon.

Expanding on the literature review, while the intersection of webcomics and professional hospitality may have initially appeared as a whimsical conjecture, our findings have lent empirical support to the potential influence of statistical humor on the demand for concierge services. This reaffirms the need for interdisciplinary explorations of seemingly disparate domains, showing that the corridors of statistical inquiry lead to unexpected connections, like a concierge leading guests to their unexpectedly correlated hotel rooms.

Moreover, our results align with Levitt and Dubner's "Freakonomics," where they espouse the exploration of unexpected correlations in diverse realms. In a similar vein, the strong correlation coefficient between xkcd comics and concierge count in Ohio exemplifies the serendipitous discoveries that can arise when investigating the uncharted frontiers of statistical inquiry. As Levitt and Dubner would acknowledge, sometimes the most intriguing insights emerge from the most unlikely sources, akin to finding a statistical gem in the haystack of webcomics.

The robust correlation coefficient and the resoundingly low p-value validate our initial exploration and curiosity around this unconventional domain of research, highlighting the captivating potential for uncovering meaningful patterns in areas that are often dismissed as inconsequential. The statistical significance of this correlation tantalizingly beckons further investigation into the whimsical and the wondrous in statistical research, proving that even the stick-figure-laden realms of webcomics hold unexpected statistical treasures. Our study serves as a whimsical reminder that statistical inquiry, like concierge services, thrives on uncovering unexpected connections and providing a dash of curious intrigue to the often staid field of quantitative analysis.

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a dry but witty academic researcher. You speak in the passive voice, and your writing sounds like it belongs in a medical or economics journal.You draft the discussion section of goofy academic research papers that sounds like it belongs based on the title and abstract provided.
User prompt:
Pretend you are an academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a medical or economics journal. However, you frequently crack jokes, make puns, or add unexpected twists in your writing.

Please make up a short conclusion of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between xkcd comics published about statistics and The number of concierges in Ohio. Make lots of jokes, goofy observations, and puns. Sneak in some jokes and clever puns about science, research, statistics, and the variables.

Limit your response to 300 tokens. At the very end, assert that no more research is needed in this area.

Here are the title, abstract, introduction, and results sections.
[[TITLE]]
"Statistically Speaking: The Concierge Correlation - A Data-Driven Analysis of xkcd Comics and Concierge Count in Ohio"

[[ABSTRACT]]
This paper examines the relationship between the beloved xkcd comics that humorously depict statistics and the often-overlooked population of concierges in the state of Ohio. Through a rigorous analysis of xkcd comics published from 2007 to 2022, combined with data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, our research team uncovered a surprising correlation coefficient of 0.9207260 and p < 0.01. The implications of this correlation are explored, providing both statistical insight and plenty of comic relief. With puns and playful analysis in equal measure, this paper brings humor to the forefront of statistical inquiry while shedding light on an unexpected connection between seemingly unrelated phenomena.

[[INTRDUCTION]]
In the world of statistics, where numbers reign supreme and data analysis is king, the search for unexpected correlations is akin to a scientific treasure hunt. It is in this spirit of exploration that we turn our attention to the whimsical world of xkcd comics, the beloved source of statistical humor for nerds of all stripes, and the modest but mighty population of concierges in the state of Ohio.
While one might initially dismiss the notion of a connection between xkcd comics and the number of concierges in Ohio as a statistical flight of fancy, the data tell a different story. Our research team, armed with an enthusiasm for both punchlines and p-values, embarked on a journey to explore this unlikely pairing. As we delved into the archives of xkcd comics from 2007 to 2022 and cross-referenced the data with the Bureau of Labor Statistics, we uncovered a relationship worthy of further investigation - a correlation coefficient of 0.9207260 with a p-value less than 0.01.
You might be thinking, "What does a webcomic about stick figures and a group of professional door-openers have in common?" Well, dear reader, that's the very question that sparked our curiosity and led to this unconventional study. The implications of this correlation are as intriguing as they are unexpected. By bringing together the worlds of statistical humor and the unassuming occupation of concierge services, we aim to shed light on the interconnectedness of seemingly disparate phenomena.
In the course of our investigation, we found ourselves navigating the sometimes murky waters of statistical analysis with the same sense of wonder and amusement as a child at a science museum - albeit with fewer dinosaur replicas and more Excel spreadsheets. Through a blend of rigorous methodology and an unabashed appreciation for the absurd, this paper sets out to showcase the lighter side of quantitative inquiry while revealing a surprising correlation that is sure to raise more than a few eyebrows. So, buckle up for a journey through the world of xkcd whimsy and the unsung heroes of hotel lobbies - together, we'll uncover the statistically significant, yet delightfully improbable, Concierge Correlation.

[[RESULTS]]
The data analysis yielded a noteworthy correlation coefficient of 0.9207260 and an r-squared of 0.8477364, with a p-value of less than 0.01, indicating a strong relationship between xkcd comics about statistics and the number of concierges in Ohio. This unexpected finding highlights the captivating interconnectedness of seemingly unrelated concepts and adds a dash of whimsy to the world of statistical inquiry.
The strong positive correlation uncovered in our analysis suggests that as the frequency of xkcd comics featuring statistical humor increased over the years, so did the number of concierges employed in Ohio. This curious relationship may prompt one to ponder the potential influence of statistical wit on the demand for concierge services or vice versa, a conundrum that tickles the boundaries of statistical probability. The implications of this correlation are both thought-provoking and delightfully peculiar, underscoring the importance of exploring unconventional avenues in quantitative research.
Additionally, the scatterplot (Fig. 1) visually demonstrates the robust correlation between the variables, providing a striking visual representation of this unexpected connection. The scatterplot serves not only as a testament to the power of statistical analysis but also as a lighthearted reminder that even the most absurd-seeming relationships can have underlying significance.
In summary, the results of this analysis underscore the potential for uncovering intriguing associations in unlikely places, from the humor-laden realm of webcomics to the unassuming world of concierge services. This study opens the door to further exploration of the whimsical and the wondrous in statistical research, inviting scholars and enthusiasts alike to embrace the unexpected with open arms and a healthy dose of statistical skepticism.

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Your response should start like this:

[[CONCLUSION]]

ChatGPT:

[[CONCLUSION]]

In conclusion, the findings of this research study bring to light a correlation so unexpected and whimsical that it begs further contemplation—and perhaps a few chuckles along the way. The robust correlation coefficient of 0.9207260 between xkcd comics about statistics and the number of concierges in Ohio not only raises eyebrows but also raises the question: "What in the realm of statistical probability is going on here?" It seems that the subtle statistical humor woven into those stick-figure comics may have a more substantial impact than previously imagined, extending its reach from the minds of stats aficionados to the doorsteps of hotels across Ohio.

One might even speculate that each witty punchline in an xkcd comic triggers an increase in demand for concierge services, as hotel guests are inspired to seek out statistical delights of their own. Or, perhaps, the concierges themselves have developed an affinity for statistical humor, leading them to flock to Ohio in search of a community that shares their unique interests. The possibilities are as numerous as the bars on a histogram.

As we reflect on the implications of this correlation, one thing becomes abundantly clear: the scientific journey is peppered with moments of hilarity and astonishment, much like a roller coaster ride through the land of p-values and punchlines. It is a testament to the sheer serendipity of statistical inquiry that such unlikely connections can emerge from the depths of data analysis, reminding us that the world of research is not just about numbers, but also about the wonderfully weird interplay of variables.

Therefore, with a playful nod to the unexpected, we assert that no further research in this particular area is needed. For the Concierge Correlation, much like a good joke, stands on its own, leaving us simultaneously bemused and bemused by its statistical whimsy. Let us cherish this delightful discovery and approach our future research endeavors with the same spirit of curiosity, humor, and a readiness to embrace the unanticipated.

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You provide fictional names of academic journals. You say nothing else, and you do not chat with the user.
User prompt: Please provide the name of a funny but plausible sounding research, scientific, or academic journal that would publish a paper entited Statistically Speaking: The Concierge Correlation - A Data-Driven Analysis of xkcd Comics and Concierge Count in Ohio. Respond only with the name of a fictional academic journal.

ChatGPT:

The Journal of Quirky Computational Studies

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You provide fictional names of nonprofit research organizations and associations. You say nothing else, and you do not chat with the user.
User prompt: Please provide the name of a funny but plausible sounding nonprofit, academic, or scientific association or organization that would sponsor research that resulted in a paper entited Statistically Speaking: The Concierge Correlation - A Data-Driven Analysis of xkcd Comics and Concierge Count in Ohio. Respond only with the name of a fictional organization.

ChatGPT:

The Institute for Comedic Studies and Social Analysis

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You provide potential search keywords separated by commas. You say nothing else, and you do not chat with the user.
User prompt: Please provide potential search keywords for a paper titled Statistically Speaking: The Concierge Correlation - A Data-Driven Analysis of xkcd Comics and Concierge Count in Ohio with an abstract of This paper examines the relationship between the beloved xkcd comics that humorously depict statistics and the often-overlooked population of concierges in the state of Ohio. Through a rigorous analysis of xkcd comics published from 2007 to 2022, combined with data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, our research team uncovered a surprising correlation coefficient of 0.9207260 and p < 0.01. The implications of this correlation are explored, providing both statistical insight and plenty of comic relief. With puns and playful analysis in equal measure, this paper brings humor to the forefront of statistical inquiry while shedding light on an unexpected connection between seemingly unrelated phenomena.

ChatGPT:

xkcd comics, concierge count, Ohio, data-driven analysis, correlation coefficient, statistical analysis, Bureau of Labor Statistics, comic relief, statistical humor, unexpected correlation

*There is a bunch of Python happening behind the scenes to turn this prompt sequence into a PDF.

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Data details

xkcd comics published about statistics
Detailed data title: The number of xkcd comics published each year about statistics
Source: AI analysis of xkcd comics
Additional Info: ^{See full details} I designed a Python workflow to perform OCR on every xkcd comic, feed that text into a large language model, and ask the model whether this comic was about the category named in the title.

See what else correlates with xkcd comics published about statistics

The number of concierges in Ohio
Detailed data title: BLS estimate of concierges in Ohio
Source: Bureau of Larbor Statistics
See what else correlates with The number of concierges in Ohio

Correlation r = 0.9207260 (Pearson correlation coefficient)
Correlation is a measure of how much the variables move together. If it is 0.99, when one goes up the other goes up. If it is 0.02, the connection is very weak or non-existent. If it is -0.99, then when one goes up the other goes down. If it is 1.00, you probably messed up your correlation function.

r² = 0.8477364 (Coefficient of determination)
This means 84.8% of the change in the one variable (i.e., The number of concierges in Ohio) is predictable based on the change in the other (i.e., xkcd comics published about statistics) over the 16 years from 2007 through 2022.

p < 0.01, which is statistically significant(Null hypothesis significance test)
The p-value is 4.3E-7.^Show 0.0000004269795756059001000000
The p-value is a measure of how probable it is that we would randomly find a result this extreme.^Note More specifically the p-value is a measure of how probable it is that we would randomly find a result this extreme if we had only tested one pair of variables one time.

But I am a p-villain. I absolutely did not test only one pair of variables one time. I correlated hundreds of millions of pairs of variables. I threw boatloads of data into an industrial-sized blender to find this correlation.

Who is going to stop me? p-value reporting doesn't require me to report how many calculations I had to go through in order to find a low p-value!
On average, you will find a correaltion as strong as 0.92 in 4.3E-5% of random cases. Said differently, if you correlated 2,342,032 random variables^Note You don't actually need 2 million variables to find a correlation like this one. I don't have that many variables in my database. You can also correlate variables that are not independent. I do this a lot.

p-value calculations are useful for understanding the probability of a result happening by chance. They are most useful when used to highlight the risk of a fluke outcome. For example, if you calculate a p-value of 0.30, the risk that the result is a fluke is high. It is good to know that! But there are lots of ways to get a p-value of less than 0.01, as evidenced by this project.

In this particular case, the values are so extreme as to be meaningless. That's why no one reports p-values with specificity after they drop below 0.01.

Just to be clear: I'm being completely transparent about the calculations. There is no math trickery. This is just how statistics shakes out when you calculate hundreds of millions of random correlations.
with the same 15 degrees of freedom, ^Note Degrees of freedom is a measure of how many free components we are testing. In this case it is 15 because we have two variables measured over a period of 16 years. It's just the number of years minus ( the number of variables minus one ), which in this case simplifies to the number of years minus one.
you would randomly expect to find a correlation as strong as this one.

[ 0.78, 0.97 ] 95% correlation confidence interval (using the Fisher z-transformation)
^{Read more about the confidence interval} The confidence interval is an estimate the range of the value of the correlation coefficient, using the correlation itself as an input. The values are meant to be the low and high end of the correlation coefficient with 95% confidence.

This one is a bit more complciated than the other calculations, but I include it because many people have been pushing for confidence intervals instead of p-value calculations (for example: NEJM. However, if you are dredging data, you can reliably find yourself in the 5%. That's my goal!

All values for the years included above: ^Note If I were being very sneaky, I could trim years from the beginning or end of the datasets to increase the correlation on some pairs of variables. I don't do that because there are already plenty of correlations in my database without monkeying with the years.

Still, sometimes one of the variables has more years of data available than the other. This page only shows the overlapping years. To see all the years, click on "See what else correlates with..." link above.

	2007	2008	2009	2010	2011	2012	2013	2014	2015	2016	2017	2018	2019	2020	2021	2022
xkcd comics published about statistics (xkcd comics)	1	6	5	4	5	8	11	4	4	2	8	7	12	16	7	7
The number of concierges in Ohio (Concierges)	250	330	400	290	440	420	540	330	310	310	410	470	730	870	570	390

Why this works

Data dredging: I have 25,153 variables in my database. I compare all these variables against each other to find ones that randomly match up. That's 632,673,409 correlation calculations! This is called “data dredging.” Instead of starting with a hypothesis and testing it, I instead abused the data to see what correlations shake out. It’s a dangerous way to go about analysis, because any sufficiently large dataset will yield strong correlations completely at random.
Lack of causal connection: There is probably^Note Because these pages are automatically generated, it's possible that the two variables you are viewing are in fact causually related. I take steps to prevent the obvious ones from showing on the site (I don't let data about the weather in one city correlate with the weather in a neighboring city, for example), but sometimes they still pop up. If they are related, cool! You found a loophole.
no direct connection between these variables, despite what the AI says above. This is exacerbated by the fact that I used "Years" as the base variable. Lots of things happen in a year that are not related to each other! Most studies would use something like "one person" in stead of "one year" to be the "thing" studied.
Observations not independent: For many variables, sequential years are not independent of each other. If a population of people is continuously doing something every day, there is no reason to think they would suddenly change how they are doing that thing on January 1. A simple^Note Personally I don't find any p-value calculation to be 'simple,' but you know what I mean.
p-value calculation does not take this into account, so mathematically it appears less probable than it really is.
Confounding variable: 2020 is particularly different from the other years on this graph. Confounding variables (like global pandemics) will cause two variables to look connected when in fact a "sneaky third" variable is influencing both of them behind the scenes.

Try it yourself

You can calculate the values on this page on your own! Try running the Python code to see the calculation results. ^{Show the steps to do this.} Step 1: Download and install Python on your computer.

Step 2: Open a plaintext editor like Notepad and paste the code below into it.

Step 3: Save the file as "calculate_correlation.py" in a place you will remember, like your desktop. Copy the file location to your clipboard. On Windows, you can right-click the file and click "Properties," and then copy what comes after "Location:" As an example, on my computer the location is "C:\Users\tyler\Desktop"

Step 4: Open a command line window. For example, by pressing start and typing "cmd" and them pressing enter.

Step 5: Install the required modules by typing "pip install numpy", then pressing enter, then typing "pip install scipy", then pressing enter.

Step 6: Navigate to the location where you saved the Python file by using the "cd" command. For example, I would type "cd C:\Users\tyler\Desktop" and push enter.

Step 7: Run the Python script by typing "python calculate_correlation.py"

If you run into any issues, I suggest asking ChatGPT to walk you through installing Python and running the code below on your system. Try this question:

"Walk me through installing Python on my computer to run a script that uses scipy and numpy. Go step-by-step and ask me to confirm before moving on. Start by asking me questions about my operating system so that you know how to proceed. Assume I want the simplest installation with the latest version of Python and that I do not currently have any of the necessary elements installed. Remember to only give me one step per response and confirm I have done it before proceeding."

# These modules make it easier to perform the calculation
import numpy as np
from scipy import stats

# We'll define a function that we can call to return the correlation calculations
def calculate_correlation(array1, array2):

    # Calculate Pearson correlation coefficient and p-value
    correlation, p_value = stats.pearsonr(array1, array2)

    # Calculate R-squared as the square of the correlation coefficient
    r_squared = correlation**2

    return correlation, r_squared, p_value

# These are the arrays for the variables shown on this page, but you can modify them to be any two sets of numbers
array_1 = np.array([1,6,5,4,5,8,11,4,4,2,8,7,12,16,7,7,])
array_2 = np.array([250,330,400,290,440,420,540,330,310,310,410,470,730,870,570,390,])
array_1_name = "xkcd comics published about statistics"
array_2_name = "The number of concierges in Ohio"

# Perform the calculation
print(f"Calculating the correlation between {array_1_name} and {array_2_name}...")
correlation, r_squared, p_value = calculate_correlation(array_1, array_2)

# Print the results
print("Correlation Coefficient:", correlation)
print("R-squared:", r_squared)
print("P-value:", p_value)

Reuseable content

You may re-use the images on this page for any purpose, even commercial purposes, without asking for permission. The only requirement is that you attribute Tyler Vigen. ^Note Attribution can take many different forms. If you leave the "tylervigen.com" link in the image, that satisfies it just fine. If you remove it and move it to a footnote, that's fine too. You can also just write "Charts courtesy of Tyler Vigen" at the bottom of an article.

You do not need to attribute "the spurious correlations website," and you don't even need to link here if you don't want to. I don't gain anything from pageviews. There are no ads on this site, there is nothing for sale, and I am not for hire.

For the record, I am just one person. Tyler Vigen, he/him/his. I do have degrees, but they should not go after my name unless you want to annoy my wife. If that is your goal, then go ahead and cite me as "Tyler Vigen, A.A. A.A.S. B.A. J.D." Otherwise it is just "Tyler Vigen."

When spoken, my last name is pronounced "vegan," like I don't eat meat.

Full license details.
For more on re-use permissions, or to get a signed release form, see tylervigen.com/permission.

Download images for these variables:

High resolution line chart ^Note The image linked here is a Scalable Vector Graphic (SVG). It is the highest resolution that is possible to achieve. It scales up beyond the size of the observable universe without pixelating. You do not need to email me asking if I have a higher resolution image. I do not. The physical limitations of our universe prevent me from providing you with an image that is any higher resolution than this one.

If you insert it into a PowerPoint presentation (a tool well-known for managing things that are the scale of the universe), you can right-click > "Ungroup" or "Create Shape" and then edit the lines and text directly. You can also change the colors this way.

Alternatively you can use a tool like Inkscape.
High resolution line chart, optimized for mobile
Alternative high resolution line chart
Scatterplot
Portable line chart (png)
Portable line chart (png), optimized for mobile
Line chart for only xkcd comics published about statistics
Line chart for only The number of concierges in Ohio
AI-generated correlation image
The spurious research paper: Statistically Speaking: The Concierge Correlation - A Data-Driven Analysis of xkcd Comics and Concierge Count in Ohio

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Correlation ID: 1448 · Black Variable ID: 20023 · Red Variable ID: 12905


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