1 Introduction to R and RStudio

1.1 Welcome!

This session will get you up and running with R and RStudio, the tools we’ll be using throughout this module. You’ll learn how to install the software, explore the RStudio interface, and run your first R commands. We’ll also cover the crucial role of version control for all of your projects.

1.2 Learning Objectives

Install R and RStudio.
Understand the different panels in RStudio.
Run basic R commands.
Install and load R packages.
Download sample data.
Inspect a csv file using RStudio.
Understand the basics of Version Control
Understand the basics of a working branch in version control

1.3 Installing R

Go to the CRAN website: https://cran.r-project.org/
Choose your operating system: (Windows, macOS, or Linux)
Download the installer: Select the appropriate download link for your system.
Run the installer: Follow the on-screen instructions to install R.

1.4 Installing RStudio

RStudio is an integrated development environment (IDE) that makes working with R much easier and more productive.

Go to the RStudio website: https://www.rstudio.com/products/rstudio/download/
Download RStudio Desktop: Select the free RStudio Desktop version.
Choose your operating system: Select the appropriate installer for your system.
Run the installer: Follow the on-screen instructions to install RStudio.

1.5 Exploring RStudio

Open RStudio. You’ll see four main panels:

Source Editor (Top-Left): This is where you write and save your R scripts.
Console (Bottom-Left): This is where you execute individual R commands and see the output.
Environment/History (Top-Right):
- Environment: Shows a list of loaded data, variables, and functions.
- History: Shows a history of commands you’ve entered.
Files/Plots/Packages/Help (Bottom-Right):
- Files: Allows you to browse your computer’s file system.
- Plots: Displays any plots or graphs you create.
- Packages: Allows you to install, update, and load R packages.
- Help: Provides documentation for R functions and packages.