Welcome to MATLAB, a programming environment widely used in engineering, science, and data analysis to simplify working with complex data and mathematical models.

What is MATLAB?

MATLAB (short for Matrix Laboratory) is a high-level programming language and interactive environment developed by MathWorks. It is designed for numerical computing, data analysis, visualization, and algorithm development.

MATLAB allows you to:

  • Analyze complex datasets using built-in mathematical and statistical functions
  • Perform advanced computations, including linear algebra, calculus, and numerical methods
  • Develop and test algorithms efficiently in an interactive workspace

Key Capabilities

Mathematical Computing

MATLAB is particularly strong in engineering and scientific contexts because it provides powerful tools for performing complex, math-based calculations. Its built-in functions make it easy to work with concepts from calculus, differential equations, and matrix operations.

Data Visualization

MATLAB offers extensive visualization capabilities, allowing you to create:

  • 2D and 3D plots
  • Surface and contour visualizations
  • Animated and interactive graphics

These tools make it easier to explore data and communicate results effectively. MATLAB also provides many customization options to refine the appearance of your visualizations.

Resources for Learning Matlab

In addition to these guides, there are many CSU courses and free resources available for learning Matlab.

View CSU Course Tree
Topic
Prerequisite Group
Course

Here are some of the free resources available organized by category.

Applied / Domain-Specific Resources

Resource Author / Provider Best for (goal) Level
Mathworks: Matlab help center Mathworks Learning how to use Matlab programming, scripts, arrays, and visualizations Beginner
MATLAB and it's applications for data science and machine learning Marco Giancola Learning about MATLAB data applications and how to use them Intermediate
Applications of MATLAB In Engineering Ijraset Applying Matlab skills to engineering practices Advanced
Hack Your Carbon Impact Workshop: Carbon Footprint Calculator & Action Tracker werixx1 Learning how to utilize Matlab for climate action applications Advanced
petercorke:github petercorke Bringing robotics computations into MATLAB Advanced

Online Courses / Structured Learning Paths

Resource Author / Provider Best for (goal) Level
Build Matlab Proficiency Matlab help center Developing a strong MATLAB foundation for more challenging applications Beginner
Handle Inconsistent and Unstructured Data Files Matlab Help Center Learning how to clean data and make it organized Beginner
Data Analysis in Matlab Matlab Help Center Learning how to analyze complex datasets for broad applications Intermediate
Matlab desktop tools and troubleshooting scripts Matlab Help Center Troubleshooting scripts and optimizing your work environment Intermediate
Model Dynamic Systems Matlab Help Center Learning to build models in MATLAB Intermediate
Programming in Matlab Matlab Help Center Learning to Debug MATLAB coding and increase efficiency Intermediate
Matlab skills for simulink modeling Matlab Help Center Learning how to use Simulink workflows Advanced
Software Development in Matlab Matlab help center Learning to build user friendly applications in MATLAB Advanced