I want to show four different plots side-by-side in a single window. I am using ggplot2. Do I need to use a separate package, or is there a built-in feature to arrange multiple ggplots?
Multiple ggplot2 objects are arranged in a single window by using the patchwork package to combine individual plot variables with arithmetic operators.
2 answers
The most robust methodology for arranging multiple ggplot objects involves utilizing dedicated orchestration libraries, as base ggplot2 lacks a native layout engine.
To implement this successfully, consider the following technical approach:
- Install the patchwork package for its intuitive syntax
- Assign each plot to an individual variable name
- Use the plus or division operators to define the grid geometry
- Invoke the grid layout to export the final composite graphic
You do not have a native, single-function solution within ggplot2 itself for complex grid arrangements, so you should utilize the patchworking paradigm. I generally recommend the patchwork package because it allows you to utilize standard arithmetic operators to compose your layouts, which remains computationally efficient for the rendering engine.
