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Spurious correlation #2,354 · View random

A linear line chart with years as the X-axis and two variables on the Y-axis. The first variable is Bachelor's degrees awarded in Engineering and the second variable is Google searches for 'dollar store near me'.  The chart goes from 2012 to 2021, and the two variables track closely in value over that time. Small Image
Download png
, svg

AI explanation

As the number of Engineering graduates rose, so did their affinity for innovative, cost-effective solutions. This led to a surge in dollar store franchise ownership, as former students applied their skills to optimize the operation of these stores. The result? An influx of high-quality, yet inexplicably affordable, merchandise at a dollar store near you, capturing the interest and search queries of bargain-hunting locals. Remember, when it comes to bargain shopping, these engineers didn't just ace the calculus - they engineered a retail revolution!

Model: dalle-3
Prompt: Generate an image that resembles a captivating Discovery magazine cover, showcasing a vibrant scene of a bustling dollar store near a university campus. The shelves are filled with a colorful array of affordable materials, such as tape, glue, and craft supplies. A group of enthusiastic engineers is engrossed in exploring the selection, their expressions conveying excitement and inspiration. Nearby, individuals are depicted using their smartphones to search for "dollar store near me," signifying the growing demand for budget-friendly supplies as an integral part of the engineering process. Ensure that the visual depiction remains simple, without any words or speech bubbles, to capture the essence of the scene's energy and connection between engineers and accessible resources. 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: Bachelor's degrees awarded in Engineering and Google searches for 'dollar store near me'. 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: Photorealism A Discovery magazine cover image inspired by bauhaus Steampunk Pop art
ChatGPT: A Discovery magazine cover image

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 Bachelor's degrees awarded in Engineering and Google searches for 'dollar store near me', in the following situation: As the number of engineers rises, so does the demand for inexpensive materials to construct their out-of-the-box inventions. This surge in brainpower leads to a surge in the need for affordable supplies, drawing both engineering enthusiasts and penny-pinching innovators to the nearest dollar store. It seems the equation for this correlation is quite simple: more engineers equals more dollar store demand, proving once again that when it comes to bargain shopping, it's all about engineering your way to savings!. Keep the description simple.
ChatGPT: A bustling dollar store near a university campus, with shelves stocked full of affordable materials like tape, glue, and craft supplies. A group of engineers are excitedly examining the selection, while nearby, people are seen searching "dollar store near me" on their smartphones. The scene illustrates the direct link between the increase in engineers and the rising demand for budget-friendly supplies.

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: [ A Discovery magazine cover image ] and depicting this scene: A bustling dollar store near a university campus, with shelves stocked full of affordable materials like tape, glue, and craft supplies. A group of engineers are excitedly examining the selection, while nearby, people are seen searching "dollar store near me" on their smartphones. The scene illustrates the direct link between the increase in engineers and the rising demand for budget-friendly supplies. Keep the visual depiction simple. Do not include any words or speech bubbles.
ChatGPT: Generate an image that resembles a captivating Discovery magazine cover, showcasing a vibrant scene of a bustling dollar store near a university campus. The shelves are filled with a colorful array of affordable materials, such as tape, glue, and craft supplies. A group of enthusiastic engineers is engrossed in exploring the selection, their expressions conveying excitement and inspiration. Nearby, individuals are depicted using their smartphones to search for "dollar store near me," signifying the growing demand for budget-friendly supplies as an integral part of the engineering process. Ensure that the visual depiction remains simple, without any words or speech bubbles, to capture the essence of the scene's energy and connection between engineers and accessible resources.

*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.

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 Bachelor's degrees awarded in Engineering caused dollar store near me (Google searches for 'dollar store near me') to increase.

AI academic paper

(Because p < 0.01)
Engineering Enrollment and Economic Endeavors: Exploring the Enigmatic Link between Bachelor's Degrees and Dollar Store Searches

The Journal of Quirky Economics and Unconventional Studies

Jan 2024

Reminder: This paper is AI-generated. Not real!
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 witty academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a statistics journal.You write titles and abstracts of goofy academic research papers.
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, and add unexpected twists in your writing.

Please draft the title and abstract of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Bachelor's degrees awarded in Engineering and Google searches for 'dollar store near me'. Make lots of jokes, goofy observations, and puns.

Make the title an alliteration.

Your research team used data from National Center for Education Statistics and Google Trends to assess this nagging question. You found a correlation coefficient of 0.9900033 and p < 0.01 for 2012 to 2021.

Please respond in this format (replace "Lorem ipsum dolor sit" with your title and abstract)

[[TITLE]]
Lorem ipsum dolor sit

[[ABSTRACT]]
Lorem ipsum dolor sit



ChatGPT:
[[TITLE]]
Engineering Enrollment and Economic Endeavors: Exploring the Enigmatic Link between Bachelor's Degrees and Dollar Store Searches

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study delves into the peculiar relationship between the number of Bachelor's degrees awarded in Engineering and the frequency of Google searches for "dollar store near me." Using data from the National Center for Education Statistics and Google Trends, our research team sets out on an intellectually playful journey to uncover the enigmatic connection between these seemingly disparate domains. We employed statistical analysis to unveil a striking correlation coefficient of 0.9900033 and a p-value less than 0.01 for the period spanning from 2012 to 2021. Our findings challenge conventional wisdom, unfolding an unexpected interplay between academic pursuits and consumer behavior. The implications of this study extend beyond academic curiosity, providing a whimsical lens through which to explore the intricate tapestry of human decision-making in the digital age.


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a witty academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a statistics journal.You draft the introduction 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 introduction section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between Bachelor's degrees awarded in Engineering and Google searches for 'dollar store near me'. Make lots of jokes, goofy observations, and puns. Sneak in some jokes and clever puns about science, research, statistics, and the variables.

Here is the title and abstract of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
Engineering Enrollment and Economic Endeavors: Exploring the Enigmatic Link between Bachelor's Degrees and Dollar Store Searches

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study delves into the peculiar relationship between the number of Bachelor's degrees awarded in Engineering and the frequency of Google searches for "dollar store near me." Using data from the National Center for Education Statistics and Google Trends, our research team sets out on an intellectually playful journey to uncover the enigmatic connection between these seemingly disparate domains. We employed statistical analysis to unveil a striking correlation coefficient of 0.9900033 and a p-value less than 0.01 for the period spanning from 2012 to 2021. Our findings challenge conventional wisdom, unfolding an unexpected interplay between academic pursuits and consumer behavior. The implications of this study extend beyond academic curiosity, providing a whimsical lens through which to explore the intricate tapestry of human decision-making in the digital age.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[INTRODUCTION]]



ChatGPT:
[[INTRODUCTION]]

In the colorful landscape of academic inquiry, one might not immediately envision a connection between the awarding of Bachelor's degrees in Engineering and the frantic quest for dollar stores. However, as Carl Sagan famously said, "Somewhere, something incredible is waiting to be known." In this case, that something incredible happened to be the peculiar correlation between these two seemingly unrelated phenomena. Our study aims to unravel this perplexing relationship, armed with the powerful tools of statistical analysis and an unwavering sense of curiosity.

As we venture into uncharted territories of research, it is essential to acknowledge the whimsical nature of this undertaking. Much like a mad scientist in a lab full of test tubes, we find ourselves concocting a hypothesis that may seem preposterous at first glance. Nevertheless, as intrepid explorers of the academic realm, we remain undaunted in our pursuit of truth, no matter how unconventional the path may seem.

The field of statistics, much like a magician, holds the power to reveal hidden patterns and unveil the unexpected. In this study, we harness the magic of numbers to cast a spell of correlation between the number of Engineering degrees and the fervor of dollar store searches. As we conjure up scatter plots and regression analyses, we find ourselves in the midst of a great intellectual spectacle, where the mundane dance of data points transforms into a captivating display of statistical wizardry.

But let us not lose sight of the gravity of our quest amidst the whimsy of statistical theatrics. The implications of uncovering a meaningful connection between educational attainment and consumer behavior are profound. This discovery provides a unique vantage point from which to contemplate the intricate dance of supply and demand, human aspirations, and economic realities. As the poet Robert Frost mused, "Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—I took the one less traveled by." In our case, the road less traveled has led us to the intersection of academia and economics, where the unexpected convergence of variables paves the way for a delightfully unconventional pursuit of knowledge.


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a witty academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a statistics 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 Bachelor's degrees awarded in Engineering and Google searches for 'dollar store near me'. 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 devolve ever further, and mention something completely ridiculous, like you conducted literature review by reading CVS receipts.

Here is the title and abstract of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
Engineering Enrollment and Economic Endeavors: Exploring the Enigmatic Link between Bachelor's Degrees and Dollar Store Searches

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study delves into the peculiar relationship between the number of Bachelor's degrees awarded in Engineering and the frequency of Google searches for "dollar store near me." Using data from the National Center for Education Statistics and Google Trends, our research team sets out on an intellectually playful journey to uncover the enigmatic connection between these seemingly disparate domains. We employed statistical analysis to unveil a striking correlation coefficient of 0.9900033 and a p-value less than 0.01 for the period spanning from 2012 to 2021. Our findings challenge conventional wisdom, unfolding an unexpected interplay between academic pursuits and consumer behavior. The implications of this study extend beyond academic curiosity, providing a whimsical lens through which to explore the intricate tapestry of human decision-making in the digital age.

-------

And here is the introduction section that led to this literature review:
[[INTRODUCTION]]
In the colorful landscape of academic inquiry, one might not immediately envision a connection between the awarding of Bachelor's degrees in Engineering and the frantic quest for dollar stores. However, as Carl Sagan famously said, "Somewhere, something incredible is waiting to be known." In this case, that something incredible happened to be the peculiar correlation between these two seemingly unrelated phenomena. Our study aims to unravel this perplexing relationship, armed with the powerful tools of statistical analysis and an unwavering sense of curiosity.
As we venture into uncharted territories of research, it is essential to acknowledge the whimsical nature of this undertaking. Much like a mad scientist in a lab full of test tubes, we find ourselves concocting a hypothesis that may seem preposterous at first glance. Nevertheless, as intrepid explorers of the academic realm, we remain undaunted in our pursuit of truth, no matter how unconventional the path may seem.
The field of statistics, much like a magician, holds the power to reveal hidden patterns and unveil the unexpected. In this study, we harness the magic of numbers to cast a spell of correlation between the number of Engineering degrees and the fervor of dollar store searches. As we conjure up scatter plots and regression analyses, we find ourselves in the midst of a great intellectual spectacle, where the mundane dance of data points transforms into a captivating display of statistical wizardry.
But let us not lose sight of the gravity of our quest amidst the whimsy of statistical theatrics. The implications of uncovering a meaningful connection between educational attainment and consumer behavior are profound. This discovery provides a unique vantage point from which to contemplate the intricate dance of supply and demand, human aspirations, and economic realities. As the poet Robert Frost mused, "Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—I took the one less traveled by." In our case, the road less traveled has led us to the intersection of academia and economics, where the unexpected convergence of variables paves the way for a delightfully unconventional pursuit of knowledge.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]



ChatGPT:
[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]

In "Smith et al.," the authors find a significant positive correlation between the number of Bachelor's degrees awarded in Engineering and the frequency of Google searches for "dollar store near me." This surprising linkage piqued our curiosity and prompted a comprehensive exploration of the existing literature in this domain.

Turning to serious non-fiction works, "Freakonomics" by Steven D. Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner sheds light on the unexpected relationships that underpin economic behavior. While the book may not specifically delve into the correlation between Engineering degrees and dollar store searches, its examination of unconventional economic patterns provides a thought-provoking backdrop for our investigation. Additionally, "The Wealth of Nations" by Adam Smith furnishes a foundational understanding of economic principles, albeit without offering direct insights into our peculiar research question.

On a fictional note, the whimsical world of "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" by Roald Dahl offers a satirical glimpse into consumer behavior and the allure of inexpensive merchandise. Although the novel may be more concerned with the magical inner workings of a chocolate factory, its portrayal of human desire and consumer culture adds a playful dimension to our research theme. Furthermore, the dystopian landscapes of "Brave New World" by Aldous Huxley prompt contemplation of societal structures and individual choices, albeit in a context unrelated to dollar store inquiries.

Venturing further into the realm of unconventional sources, we encountered rather atypical material. Amidst the seemingly ordinary fabric of everyday life, we discovered an unexpected treasure trove of insight: CVS receipts. These enigmatic slips of paper, with their cryptic list of purchases and tantalizing discount offers, provided an unorthodox yet oddly informative glimpse into consumer spending habits. While perhaps not the most rigorous scholarly material, their unintentional humor and accidental commentary on consumerist tendencies offered a lighthearted diversion in our research journey.

As we navigate this uncharted academic terrain, the juxtaposition of serious scholarship and whimsical exploration serves as a poignant reminder of the unpredictable delights that await those who venture beyond the confines of traditional inquiry. In blending the rigors of academia with the levity of unexpected connections, our pursuit of knowledge assumes a playfully enigmatic quality, mirroring the very mystery we seek to unravel.


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a witty academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a statistics 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 Bachelor's degrees awarded in Engineering and Google searches for 'dollar store near me'. 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 National Center for Education Statistics and Google Trends . You used data from 2012 to 2021

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]]
Engineering Enrollment and Economic Endeavors: Exploring the Enigmatic Link between Bachelor's Degrees and Dollar Store Searches

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study delves into the peculiar relationship between the number of Bachelor's degrees awarded in Engineering and the frequency of Google searches for "dollar store near me." Using data from the National Center for Education Statistics and Google Trends, our research team sets out on an intellectually playful journey to uncover the enigmatic connection between these seemingly disparate domains. We employed statistical analysis to unveil a striking correlation coefficient of 0.9900033 and a p-value less than 0.01 for the period spanning from 2012 to 2021. Our findings challenge conventional wisdom, unfolding an unexpected interplay between academic pursuits and consumer behavior. The implications of this study extend beyond academic curiosity, providing a whimsical lens through which to explore the intricate tapestry of human decision-making in the digital age.

[[INTRODUCTION]]
In the colorful landscape of academic inquiry, one might not immediately envision a connection between the awarding of Bachelor's degrees in Engineering and the frantic quest for dollar stores. However, as Carl Sagan famously said, "Somewhere, something incredible is waiting to be known." In this case, that something incredible happened to be the peculiar correlation between these two seemingly unrelated phenomena. Our study aims to unravel this perplexing relationship, armed with the powerful tools of statistical analysis and an unwavering sense of curiosity.
As we venture into uncharted territories of research, it is essential to acknowledge the whimsical nature of this undertaking. Much like a mad scientist in a lab full of test tubes, we find ourselves concocting a hypothesis that may seem preposterous at first glance. Nevertheless, as intrepid explorers of the academic realm, we remain undaunted in our pursuit of truth, no matter how unconventional the path may seem.
The field of statistics, much like a magician, holds the power to reveal hidden patterns and unveil the unexpected. In this study, we harness the magic of numbers to cast a spell of correlation between the number of Engineering degrees and the fervor of dollar store searches. As we conjure up scatter plots and regression analyses, we find ourselves in the midst of a great intellectual spectacle, where the mundane dance of data points transforms into a captivating display of statistical wizardry.
But let us not lose sight of the gravity of our quest amidst the whimsy of statistical theatrics. The implications of uncovering a meaningful connection between educational attainment and consumer behavior are profound. This discovery provides a unique vantage point from which to contemplate the intricate dance of supply and demand, human aspirations, and economic realities. As the poet Robert Frost mused, "Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—I took the one less traveled by." In our case, the road less traveled has led us to the intersection of academia and economics, where the unexpected convergence of variables paves the way for a delightfully unconventional pursuit of knowledge.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[METHODOLOGY]]



ChatGPT:

[[METHODOLOGY]]

In our quest to unravel the enigmatic connection between Bachelor's degrees awarded in Engineering and Google searches for "dollar store near me," we embarked on a whimsical journey through the data landscape, employing a mix of serious statistical analysis and lighthearted curiosity. Our research team gathered data from the National Center for Education Statistics, capturing the annual counts of Bachelor's degrees conferred in Engineering from 2012 to 2021. Meanwhile, our digital adventurers delved into the realm of Google Trends, extracting the search interest data for "dollar store near me" across the same timeframe.

With our treasure trove of data in hand, we set out to wrangle the numbers into submission, much like a crew of fearless pirates charting an unexplored statistical sea. Our first task was to assess the quality and integrity of the data, ensuring that our findings would not be marred by inaccuracies or outliers. After confirming the reliability of our data, we proceeded to don our statistical thinking caps and unleash an arsenal of analytical methods.

To shed light on the relationship between Engineering degrees and dollar store searches, we called upon the venerable Pearson correlation coefficient to quantify the strength and direction of the association. Harnessing the power of this trusty statistic, we sought to illuminate the potential link between the academic pursuits of aspiring engineers and the curious clamor for budget-friendly shopping destinations.

In our statistical revelry, we also subjected our data to the time-tested ritual of regression analysis, summoning forth a parade of coefficients and significance tests to tease out the finer nuances of the relationship. With each coefficient acting as a star performer in our statistical circus, we aimed to uncover the intricate interplay between our covariates and decipher the underlying narrative of human behavior as it unfolds in the dance of numbers.

In addition to these time-honored statistical methods, we also employed the prodigious talents of time series analysis to capture the dynamic ebb and flow of Engineering degrees and dollar store searches over the years. This approach allowed us to unravel the temporal tapestry of our variables, painting a vivid picture of their coiling embrace and unveiling any seasonally nuanced patterns in their interwoven tales.

As we navigated through the seas of data, we maintained a rigorous commitment to transparency and reproducibility, documenting our analytical escapades with meticulous precision. Through the alchemy of statistical inquiry and whimsical exploration, we sought to breathe life into the seemingly disparate worlds of academia and consumer behavior, weaving a narrative that challenges conventional wisdom and invites the reader to embrace the unexpected.


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a witty academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a statistics 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 Bachelor's degrees awarded in Engineering and Google searches for 'dollar store near me'. 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 National Center for Education Statistics and Google Trends .

For the time period 2012 to 2021, you found a correlation 0.9900033, r-squared of 0.9801066, 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]]
Engineering Enrollment and Economic Endeavors: Exploring the Enigmatic Link between Bachelor's Degrees and Dollar Store Searches

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study delves into the peculiar relationship between the number of Bachelor's degrees awarded in Engineering and the frequency of Google searches for "dollar store near me." Using data from the National Center for Education Statistics and Google Trends, our research team sets out on an intellectually playful journey to uncover the enigmatic connection between these seemingly disparate domains. We employed statistical analysis to unveil a striking correlation coefficient of 0.9900033 and a p-value less than 0.01 for the period spanning from 2012 to 2021. Our findings challenge conventional wisdom, unfolding an unexpected interplay between academic pursuits and consumer behavior. The implications of this study extend beyond academic curiosity, providing a whimsical lens through which to explore the intricate tapestry of human decision-making in the digital age.

-------

And here is the methodology section that led to this result:
[[METHODOLOGY]]
In the colorful landscape of academic inquiry, one might not immediately envision a connection between the awarding of Bachelor's degrees in Engineering and the frantic quest for dollar stores. However, as Carl Sagan famously said, "Somewhere, something incredible is waiting to be known." In this case, that something incredible happened to be the peculiar correlation between these two seemingly unrelated phenomena. Our study aims to unravel this perplexing relationship, armed with the powerful tools of statistical analysis and an unwavering sense of curiosity.
As we venture into uncharted territories of research, it is essential to acknowledge the whimsical nature of this undertaking. Much like a mad scientist in a lab full of test tubes, we find ourselves concocting a hypothesis that may seem preposterous at first glance. Nevertheless, as intrepid explorers of the academic realm, we remain undaunted in our pursuit of truth, no matter how unconventional the path may seem.
The field of statistics, much like a magician, holds the power to reveal hidden patterns and unveil the unexpected. In this study, we harness the magic of numbers to cast a spell of correlation between the number of Engineering degrees and the fervor of dollar store searches. As we conjure up scatter plots and regression analyses, we find ourselves in the midst of a great intellectual spectacle, where the mundane dance of data points transforms into a captivating display of statistical wizardry.
But let us not lose sight of the gravity of our quest amidst the whimsy of statistical theatrics. The implications of uncovering a meaningful connection between educational attainment and consumer behavior are profound. This discovery provides a unique vantage point from which to contemplate the intricate dance of supply and demand, human aspirations, and economic realities. As the poet Robert Frost mused, "Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—I took the one less traveled by." In our case, the road less traveled has led us to the intersection of academia and economics, where the unexpected convergence of variables paves the way for a delightfully unconventional pursuit of knowledge.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[RESULTS]]



ChatGPT:

[[RESULTS]]

The results of our statistical analysis revealed a remarkably strong correlation between the number of Bachelor's degrees awarded in Engineering and the frequency of Google searches for "dollar store near me" over the period from 2012 to 2021. The correlation coefficient of 0.9900033 suggests a near perfect positive linear relationship between these two seemingly unrelated variables. Our findings indicate that the increase in Engineering degrees awarded is highly associated with an uptick in the quest for dollar stores.

The r-squared value of 0.9801066 further emphasizes the robustness of this relationship, explaining a substantial 98.01% of the variability in dollar store searches based on the number of Engineering degrees conferred. It seems that as the pursuit of engineering knowledge flourishes, so too does the fervent exploration for affordable treasures at the nearest dollar store.

In line with these compelling results, the p-value of less than 0.01 provides strong evidence against the null hypothesis, indicating that the observed association between Engineering degrees and dollar store searches is not due to random chance. It appears that there is indeed a significant and meaningful connection between educational achievements in Engineering and the inclination to embark on a digital quest for budget-friendly shopping destinations.

Furthermore, our Figure 1 scatterplot graphically depicts this captivating relationship, capturing the undeniable correlation between the variables in a visually engaging manner. Like two celestial bodies in orbit, the points in the scatterplot gracefully align themselves along a trajectory that mirrors the dance of knowledge and consumer behavior, painting a vivid portrait of the interconnectedness between the pursuit of higher education and the search for economic bargains.

In conclusion, our research sheds light on the unanticipated interaction between academic aspirations and consumer habits, proving that statistical analysis can indeed uncover intriguing patterns that defy traditional expectations. This revelation invites further contemplation on the economic undercurrents that underpin human decision-making and offers a whimsical perspective on the intricate tapestry of human behavior in the digital age.


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a witty academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a statistics 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 Bachelor's degrees awarded in Engineering and Google searches for 'dollar store near me'. 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]]
Engineering Enrollment and Economic Endeavors: Exploring the Enigmatic Link between Bachelor's Degrees and Dollar Store Searches

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study delves into the peculiar relationship between the number of Bachelor's degrees awarded in Engineering and the frequency of Google searches for "dollar store near me." Using data from the National Center for Education Statistics and Google Trends, our research team sets out on an intellectually playful journey to uncover the enigmatic connection between these seemingly disparate domains. We employed statistical analysis to unveil a striking correlation coefficient of 0.9900033 and a p-value less than 0.01 for the period spanning from 2012 to 2021. Our findings challenge conventional wisdom, unfolding an unexpected interplay between academic pursuits and consumer behavior. The implications of this study extend beyond academic curiosity, providing a whimsical lens through which to explore the intricate tapestry of human decision-making in the digital age.

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]
In "Smith et al.," the authors find a significant positive correlation between the number of Bachelor's degrees awarded in Engineering and the frequency of Google searches for "dollar store near me." This surprising linkage piqued our curiosity and prompted a comprehensive exploration of the existing literature in this domain.
Turning to serious non-fiction works, "Freakonomics" by Steven D. Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner sheds light on the unexpected relationships that underpin economic behavior. While the book may not specifically delve into the correlation between Engineering degrees and dollar store searches, its examination of unconventional economic patterns provides a thought-provoking backdrop for our investigation. Additionally, "The Wealth of Nations" by Adam Smith furnishes a foundational understanding of economic principles, albeit without offering direct insights into our peculiar research question.
On a fictional note, the whimsical world of "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" by Roald Dahl offers a satirical glimpse into consumer behavior and the allure of inexpensive merchandise. Although the novel may be more concerned with the magical inner workings of a chocolate factory, its portrayal of human desire and consumer culture adds a playful dimension to our research theme. Furthermore, the dystopian landscapes of "Brave New World" by Aldous Huxley prompt contemplation of societal structures and individual choices, albeit in a context unrelated to dollar store inquiries.
Venturing further into the realm of unconventional sources, we encountered rather atypical material. Amidst the seemingly ordinary fabric of everyday life, we discovered an unexpected treasure trove of insight: CVS receipts. These enigmatic slips of paper, with their cryptic list of purchases and tantalizing discount offers, provided an unorthodox yet oddly informative glimpse into consumer spending habits. While perhaps not the most rigorous scholarly material, their unintentional humor and accidental commentary on consumerist tendencies offered a lighthearted diversion in our research journey.
As we navigate this uncharted academic terrain, the juxtaposition of serious scholarship and whimsical exploration serves as a poignant reminder of the unpredictable delights that await those who venture beyond the confines of traditional inquiry. In blending the rigors of academia with the levity of unexpected connections, our pursuit of knowledge assumes a playfully enigmatic quality, mirroring the very mystery we seek to unravel.

[[RESULTS]]
The results of our statistical analysis revealed a remarkably strong correlation between the number of Bachelor's degrees awarded in Engineering and the frequency of Google searches for "dollar store near me" over the period from 2012 to 2021. The correlation coefficient of 0.9900033 suggests a near perfect positive linear relationship between these two seemingly unrelated variables. Our findings indicate that the increase in Engineering degrees awarded is highly associated with an uptick in the quest for dollar stores.
The r-squared value of 0.9801066 further emphasizes the robustness of this relationship, explaining a substantial 98.01% of the variability in dollar store searches based on the number of Engineering degrees conferred. It seems that as the pursuit of engineering knowledge flourishes, so too does the fervent exploration for affordable treasures at the nearest dollar store.
In line with these compelling results, the p-value of less than 0.01 provides strong evidence against the null hypothesis, indicating that the observed association between Engineering degrees and dollar store searches is not due to random chance. It appears that there is indeed a significant and meaningful connection between educational achievements in Engineering and the inclination to embark on a digital quest for budget-friendly shopping destinations.
Furthermore, our Figure 1 scatterplot graphically depicts this captivating relationship, capturing the undeniable correlation between the variables in a visually engaging manner. Like two celestial bodies in orbit, the points in the scatterplot gracefully align themselves along a trajectory that mirrors the dance of knowledge and consumer behavior, painting a vivid portrait of the interconnectedness between the pursuit of higher education and the search for economic bargains.
In conclusion, our research sheds light on the unanticipated interaction between academic aspirations and consumer habits, proving that statistical analysis can indeed uncover intriguing patterns that defy traditional expectations. This revelation invites further contemplation on the economic undercurrents that underpin human decision-making and offers a whimsical perspective on the intricate tapestry of human behavior in the digital age.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[DISCUSSION]]



ChatGPT:

[[DISCUSSION]]

Our research has unveiled a surprisingly strong and statistically robust connection between the conferral of Bachelor's degrees in Engineering and the frequency of Google searches for "dollar store near me." The near-perfect positive linear relationship with a correlation coefficient of 0.9900033 stands as a testament to the unexpected interplay between these seemingly unrelated variables. It appears that as the pursuit of engineering knowledge flourishes, so too does the fervent exploration for affordable treasures at the nearest dollar store.

Harkening back to the literature review, our findings support the work of "Smith et al.," who also identified a significant positive correlation between Engineering degrees and dollar store searches. While the whimsical world of "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" may have initially seemed like an unlikely source of inspiration, its satirical glimpse into consumer behavior ultimately resonates with our results. After all, who wouldn't want to find the golden ticket to the nearest dollar store bargain?

The robustness of our findings, as indicated by the r-squared value of 0.9801066, suggests that a substantial 98.01% of the variability in dollar store searches can be explained by the number of Engineering degrees awarded. This statistical prowess provides a compelling narrative of the captivating relationship between educational achievements in Engineering and the inclination to embark on a digital quest for budget-friendly shopping destinations. As "Freakonomics" has taught us, the unconventional is often nestled within the folds of the ordinary - just like the unexpected connection we have uncovered in our research.

In line with the quirky diversions encountered in our literature review, our results have introduced an unconventional yet oddly informative glimpse into consumer spending habits. Much like the enigmatic CVS receipts, our findings carry a touch of unintentional humor and provide valuable insight into the unpredictable delights that await in the realm of statistical exploration.

It is evident that our study offers a whimsical perspective on the intricate tapestry of human behavior, serving as a poignant reminder of the unpredictable delights that emerge when the rigors of academia intersect with the playful enigmas of unconventional inquiry. As we delve further into this uncharted academic terrain, the intersection of serious scholarship and lighthearted exploration mirrors the delightfully mysterious nature of the very correlation we seek to unravel.

In summary, our findings contribute to the whimsical tapestry of human decision-making, offering a unique lens through which to examine the economic undercurrents that underpin consumer behavior. Our statistical analysis has uncovered a correlation that defies traditional expectations, emphasizing that serious inquiry can indeed lead to delightfully unexpected - yet statistically robust - discoveries.


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a witty academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a statistics 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 Bachelor's degrees awarded in Engineering and Google searches for 'dollar store near me'. 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]]
Engineering Enrollment and Economic Endeavors: Exploring the Enigmatic Link between Bachelor's Degrees and Dollar Store Searches

[[ABSTRACT]]
This study delves into the peculiar relationship between the number of Bachelor's degrees awarded in Engineering and the frequency of Google searches for "dollar store near me." Using data from the National Center for Education Statistics and Google Trends, our research team sets out on an intellectually playful journey to uncover the enigmatic connection between these seemingly disparate domains. We employed statistical analysis to unveil a striking correlation coefficient of 0.9900033 and a p-value less than 0.01 for the period spanning from 2012 to 2021. Our findings challenge conventional wisdom, unfolding an unexpected interplay between academic pursuits and consumer behavior. The implications of this study extend beyond academic curiosity, providing a whimsical lens through which to explore the intricate tapestry of human decision-making in the digital age.

[[INTRDUCTION]]
In the colorful landscape of academic inquiry, one might not immediately envision a connection between the awarding of Bachelor's degrees in Engineering and the frantic quest for dollar stores. However, as Carl Sagan famously said, "Somewhere, something incredible is waiting to be known." In this case, that something incredible happened to be the peculiar correlation between these two seemingly unrelated phenomena. Our study aims to unravel this perplexing relationship, armed with the powerful tools of statistical analysis and an unwavering sense of curiosity.
As we venture into uncharted territories of research, it is essential to acknowledge the whimsical nature of this undertaking. Much like a mad scientist in a lab full of test tubes, we find ourselves concocting a hypothesis that may seem preposterous at first glance. Nevertheless, as intrepid explorers of the academic realm, we remain undaunted in our pursuit of truth, no matter how unconventional the path may seem.
The field of statistics, much like a magician, holds the power to reveal hidden patterns and unveil the unexpected. In this study, we harness the magic of numbers to cast a spell of correlation between the number of Engineering degrees and the fervor of dollar store searches. As we conjure up scatter plots and regression analyses, we find ourselves in the midst of a great intellectual spectacle, where the mundane dance of data points transforms into a captivating display of statistical wizardry.
But let us not lose sight of the gravity of our quest amidst the whimsy of statistical theatrics. The implications of uncovering a meaningful connection between educational attainment and consumer behavior are profound. This discovery provides a unique vantage point from which to contemplate the intricate dance of supply and demand, human aspirations, and economic realities. As the poet Robert Frost mused, "Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—I took the one less traveled by." In our case, the road less traveled has led us to the intersection of academia and economics, where the unexpected convergence of variables paves the way for a delightfully unconventional pursuit of knowledge.

[[RESULTS]]
The results of our statistical analysis revealed a remarkably strong correlation between the number of Bachelor's degrees awarded in Engineering and the frequency of Google searches for "dollar store near me" over the period from 2012 to 2021. The correlation coefficient of 0.9900033 suggests a near perfect positive linear relationship between these two seemingly unrelated variables. Our findings indicate that the increase in Engineering degrees awarded is highly associated with an uptick in the quest for dollar stores.
The r-squared value of 0.9801066 further emphasizes the robustness of this relationship, explaining a substantial 98.01% of the variability in dollar store searches based on the number of Engineering degrees conferred. It seems that as the pursuit of engineering knowledge flourishes, so too does the fervent exploration for affordable treasures at the nearest dollar store.
In line with these compelling results, the p-value of less than 0.01 provides strong evidence against the null hypothesis, indicating that the observed association between Engineering degrees and dollar store searches is not due to random chance. It appears that there is indeed a significant and meaningful connection between educational achievements in Engineering and the inclination to embark on a digital quest for budget-friendly shopping destinations.
Furthermore, our Figure 1 scatterplot graphically depicts this captivating relationship, capturing the undeniable correlation between the variables in a visually engaging manner. Like two celestial bodies in orbit, the points in the scatterplot gracefully align themselves along a trajectory that mirrors the dance of knowledge and consumer behavior, painting a vivid portrait of the interconnectedness between the pursuit of higher education and the search for economic bargains.
In conclusion, our research sheds light on the unanticipated interaction between academic aspirations and consumer habits, proving that statistical analysis can indeed uncover intriguing patterns that defy traditional expectations. This revelation invites further contemplation on the economic undercurrents that underpin human decision-making and offers a whimsical perspective on the intricate tapestry of human behavior in the digital age.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[CONCLUSION]]



ChatGPT:

[[CONCLUSION]]

In the grand tradition of scientific discoveries that elicit a hearty chuckle, our investigation into the link between Bachelor's degrees in Engineering and Google searches for 'dollar store near me' has not disappointed in its whimsical revelations. Just as Newton's apple fell from the tree, our statistical analysis has unveiled a delightful cascade of data points that connect the pursuit of engineering knowledge with the fervent hunt for dollar store treasures.

Our findings, with a correlation coefficient of 0.9900033, have unmasked an almost comically strong relationship between these seemingly unrelated variables. It seems that as the number of bright minds delving into the world of Engineering increases, so does the collective urge to embark on a digital quest for budget-friendly shopping destinations. It's as if the allure of affordable knick-knacks and the thrill of differential equations share a harmonious waltz within the human psyche.

The r-squared value of 0.9801066 reaffirms this captivating relationship, painting a statistical portrait of the entwined paths of academic pursuits and consumer whims. The p-value of less than 0.01 further solidifies the significance of this discovery, leaving no room for doubt that the connection between Engineering degrees and dollar store searches is not a product of statistical randomness but a genuine correlation that tickles the fancy of the scholarly mind.

In the grand finale of our statistical spectacle, our scatterplot, akin to a cosmic ballet, captures the beautiful dance of knowledge and consumer behavior, offering a visual testament to the harmonious convergence of these unconventional bedfellows.

In closing, our journey has unveiled a whimsical landscape where the pursuit of higher education and the search for economic bargains intertwine in an enigmatic pas de deux. The implications of this improbable correlation are as intriguing as they are captivating, providing a humorous lens through which to ponder the intricate tapestry of human behavior in the digital age.

As for further research on this topic, we dare proclaim that no more investigation is needed. For in the fun-filled realms of statistical exploration, sometimes the most unexpected correlations are the ones that bring the most joy—and that, dear reader, is a statistical certainty.


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 Engineering Enrollment and Economic Endeavors: Exploring the Enigmatic Link between Bachelor's Degrees and Dollar Store Searches. Respond only with the name of a fictional academic journal.

ChatGPT:

The Journal of Quirky Economics and Unconventional 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 Engineering Enrollment and Economic Endeavors: Exploring the Enigmatic Link between Bachelor's Degrees and Dollar Store Searches. Respond only with the name of a fictional organization.

ChatGPT:

The Society for Interdisciplinary Economic Research and 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 Engineering Enrollment and Economic Endeavors: Exploring the Enigmatic Link between Bachelor's Degrees and Dollar Store Searches with an abstract of This study delves into the peculiar relationship between the number of Bachelor's degrees awarded in Engineering and the frequency of Google searches for "dollar store near me." Using data from the National Center for Education Statistics and Google Trends, our research team sets out on an intellectually playful journey to uncover the enigmatic connection between these seemingly disparate domains. We employed statistical analysis to unveil a striking correlation coefficient of 0.9900033 and a p-value less than 0.01 for the period spanning from 2012 to 2021. Our findings challenge conventional wisdom, unfolding an unexpected interplay between academic pursuits and consumer behavior. The implications of this study extend beyond academic curiosity, providing a whimsical lens through which to explore the intricate tapestry of human decision-making in the digital age.

ChatGPT:

Engineering enrollment, Bachelor's degrees in Engineering, economic endeavors, dollar store searches, correlation, statistical analysis, consumer behavior, Google Trends, National Center for Education Statistics

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



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Data details

Bachelor's degrees awarded in Engineering
Detailed data title: Bachelor's degrees conferred by postsecondary institutions, in field of study: Engineering
Source: National Center for Education Statistics
See what else correlates with Bachelor's degrees awarded in Engineering

Google searches for 'dollar store near me'
Detailed data title: Relative volume of Google searches for 'dollar store near me' (Worldwide, without quotes)
Source: Google Trends
Additional Info: Relative search volume (not absolute numbers)

See what else correlates with Google searches for 'dollar store near me'

Correlation r = 0.9900033 (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 = 0.9801066 (Coefficient of determination)
This means 98% of the change in the one variable (i.e., Google searches for 'dollar store near me') is predictable based on the change in the other (i.e., Bachelor's degrees awarded in Engineering) over the 10 years from 2012 through 2021.

p < 0.01, which is statistically significant(Null hypothesis significance test)
The p-value is 4.3E-8. 0.0000000431700987050049050000
The p-value is a measure of how probable it is that we would randomly find a result this extreme. 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 0.99 in 4.3E-6% of random cases. Said differently, if you correlated 23,164,181 random variables You don't actually need 23 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 9 degrees of freedom, Degrees of freedom is a measure of how many free components we are testing. In this case it is 9 because we have two variables measured over a period of 10 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.

[ 0.96, 1 ] 95% correlation confidence interval (using the Fisher z-transformation)
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: 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.
2012201320142015201620172018201920202021
Bachelor's degrees awarded in Engineering (Degrees awarded)81371859879216997852106789115671121953126692128337126037
Google searches for 'dollar store near me' (Rel. search volume)13.255.7516.083330.7545.833356.833369.166772.566.9167




Why this works

  1. 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.
  2. Lack of causal connection: There is probably 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.
  3. 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 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.
  4. Y-axis doesn't start at zero: I truncated the Y-axes of the graph above. I also used a line graph, which makes the visual connection stand out more than it deserves. Nothing against line graphs. They are great at telling a story when you have linear data! But visually it is deceptive because the only data is at the points on the graph, not the lines on the graph. In between each point, the data could have been doing anything. Like going for a random walk by itself!
    Mathematically what I showed is true, but it is intentionally misleading. Below is the same chart but with both Y-axes starting at zero.




Try it yourself

You can calculate the values on this page on your own! Try running the Python code to see the calculation results. 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([81371,85987,92169,97852,106789,115671,121953,126692,128337,126037,])
array_2 = np.array([1,3.25,5.75,16.0833,30.75,45.8333,56.8333,69.1667,72.5,66.9167,])
array_1_name = "Bachelor's degrees awarded in Engineering"
array_2_name = "Google searches for 'dollar store near me'"

# 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)



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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.

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Correlation ID: 2354 · Black Variable ID: 1273 · Red Variable ID: 1375
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