Using Microsoft Office Excel 2007 to conduct generalized matching analyses

Abstract

The generalized matching equation is a robust and empirically supported means of analyzing relations between reinforcement and behavior. Unfortunately, no simple task analysis is available to behavior analysts interested in using the matching equation to evaluate data in clinical or applied settings. This technical article presents a task analysis for the use of Microsoft Excel to analyze and plot the generalized matching equation. Using a data-based case example and a step-by-step guide for completing the analysis, these instructions are intended to promote the use of quantitative analyses by researchers with little to no experience in quantitative analyses or the matching law.

Keywords: Microsoft Excel; choice; generalized matching equation; matching law; technology.

Figure 1

Screen shot depicting how the Excel spreadsheet should appear after completing Step 5 of creating the spreadsheet.

Figure 2

Screen shot depicting the scatterplot option to select in Step 2 of creating the plot, with an arrow directing the reader to the correct option.

Figure 3

Screen shot associated with Step 3 of creating the plot, indicating the “title below axis” option with an arrow.

Figure 4

Screen shot of the Excel format axis option box with the correct modifications specified in Step 5 of creating the plot.

Figure 5

Screen shot using an arrow to direct the reader how to find the “more trendline options” menu referenced in Step 10 of creating the plot.

Figure 6

Screen shot of the “trendline options” tab of the “format trendline” menu box with the proper specifications made in reference to Step 10 of creating the plot.

Figure 7

Final matching plot of the case example used throughout the task analysis, with the derived generalized matching equation displayed in the upper left corner.