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How to Create a Row Vector in MATLAB?

Published in MATLAB Vector Creation 2 mins read

To create a row vector in MATLAB, you use square brackets [] around the elements. Elements are separated by either spaces or commas.

In MATLAB, creating vectors, especially row vectors, is a fundamental operation. As stated in the reference, the primary method involves enclosing the desired elements within square brackets [ ].

Creating a Row Vector Using Square Brackets

The most common way to define a row vector is by listing its elements inside square brackets. You have flexibility in how you separate these elements:

  • Using Spaces: You can use one or more spaces between elements.
  • Using Commas: You can use commas to separate elements.

Both methods produce the same result – a row vector.

Syntax Examples

Here are the basic syntaxes:

rowVector = [element1 element2 element3 ...]; % Using spaces
rowVector = [element1, element2, element3, ...]; % Using commas

You can even mix spaces and commas, though it's generally best practice for clarity to stick to one separator style within a single vector definition.

Practical Example from Reference

The reference provides a specific example: creating a row vector named x with elements x1 = 1, x2 = -2, and x3 = 5.

To create this vector x in MATLAB, you would type:

x = [1 -2 5];

or

x = [1, -2, 5];

Both lines of code result in the variable x being a row vector:

x =
     1    -2     5

Comparing Separators: Spaces vs. Commas

While both spaces and commas work for creating row vectors, using commas is often preferred, especially when dealing with more complex expressions as elements, as it enhances readability and clearly distinguishes elements.

Feature Using Spaces Using Commas
Syntax [1 2 3] [1, 2, 3]
Clarity Good for simple numbers Often better for expressions
Requirement At least one space One comma
Typical Use Simple numerical vectors More complex expressions

In summary, the fundamental technique for creating a row vector in MATLAB, as highlighted by the reference, is the use of square brackets [], with elements separated by either spaces or commas.

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