Format

 

This parameter shows the current input/output status of each of the data columns in a datafile. Recall the sample of the garden.mbl datafile that we showed earlier:

% GreenG MinDrop Water Temp  Height   Brightness
    2      2      2     15   11.9      2
    2      2      2     20   12.1      2
    2      2      2     25   11.5      2
    2      2      4     15   27.9      2

Here the first four data columns correspond to input variables (factors in the plant regimen) and the last two data columns represent output variables (the flower-height and color-brightness that resulted from the regimen). The Format string for the garden.mbl datafile is thus: ``iiiioo.'' In general, the nth character in a Format string is an `i' if and only if the nth data column is being treated as an input, an `o' if the column is being treated as an output, and a `-' if it is being ignored.

By default, EYE assumes that the rightmost column of numbers in a datafile represents the output value, and that all the other columns correspond to input variables. You can edit the Format string if this default assumption is incorrect.

If you wish to permanently record a non-default format for the current datafile, first edit the Format string, and then save the datafile (using the File menu). Whenever EYE opens that datafile in the future, it will read in the Format that you recorded.