Matplotlib is a Python 2D plotting library which produces publication-quality figures in a variety of hardcopy formats and interactive environments across platforms. Matplotlib can be used in Python scripts, the Python and IPython shell (à la MATLAB or Mathematica), web application servers, and various graphical user interface toolkits.
For installation instructions and requirements, see the INSTALL.rst file or the install documentation. If you think you may want to contribute to matplotlib, check out the guide to working with the source code.
After installation, you can launch the test suite:
py.test
Or from the Python interpreter:
import matplotlib matplotlib.test()
Consider reading http://matplotlib.org/devel/coding_guide.html#testing for more information. Note that the test suite requires pytest and, on Python 2.7, mock. Please install with pip or your package manager of choice.
matplotlib's communication channels include active mailing lists:
- Users mailing list: matplotlib-users@python.org
- Announcement mailing list: matplotlib-announce@python.org
- Development mailing list: matplotlib-devel@python.org
The first is a good starting point for general questions and discussions.
Gitter is for coordinating development and asking questions directly related to contributing to matplotlib.
You've discovered a bug or something else you want to change - excellent!
You've worked out a way to fix it – even better!
You want to tell us about it – best of all!
Start at the contributing guide!