Installing R

Step-by-step instructions to install R and RStudio.

How to Install R and RStudio

Installing R is the first step to getting started with data analysis, while RStudio provides a powerful and user-friendly interface to work with R.

Installing R

R is a standalone program that does all the heavy lifting behind the scenes. To install R, follow these steps:

  1. Download R from CRAN:
    Visit the CRAN website to download the version of R that matches your operating system. (Fun fact: R versions are named after Charlie Brown episodes!)
    Tip: Check for updates every six months to ensure you have the latest features and bug fixes.

  2. Run the Installer:
    After downloading, run the installer and follow the on‑screen instructions.

CRAN download page for R

Installing RStudio

Once you have R installed, it’s time to install RStudio—the Integrated Development Environment (IDE) that makes working with R much easier.

  1. Download RStudio:
    Visit the RStudio download page to get the installer for your computer.

  2. Install and Launch RStudio:
    After installing, open RStudio. It will automatically connect to the installed version of R, providing a streamlined interface to work with scripts, data, and visualizations.

Screenshot of the RStudio interface

  1. Positron a new and cool interface
    Visit the Positron page to get the installer for your computer.