R Get Started – Your First Steps with R Programming and Scripts

Introduction – How to Start with R?

Once you’ve installed R and RStudio, you’re ready to start coding. This guide will walk you through how to write your first R commands, understand the R console, and create your first R script.

We’ll also cover how to run code line-by-line, save your work, and explore the working directory—all crucial skills for effective R programming.

In this guide, you’ll learn:

• How to run commands in the R console
• How to create and save R scripts
• The basics of working directories
• Writing your first R program

R Console vs Script Editor – What’s the Difference?

When you open RStudio, you’ll see:

• Console (bottom left)
• Script editor (top left)
• Environment/history (top right)
• Plots/files/packages/help (bottom right)

Your First R Commands

Open RStudio, and in the console, try:

2 + 3

Output:

[1] 5

You just performed your first R operation! Let’s try a few more:

print("Hello, R!")

Output:

[1] "Hello, R!"

x <- 10
y <- 5
z <- x * y
z

Output:

[1] 50

Create Your First R Script

1. Click File > New File > R Script
2. Type your R code:

# My First R Script
name <- "Alice"
score <- 98
message(paste("Student:", name, "- Score:", score))

3. Save the script: File > Save As > my_first_script.R
4. Click “Run” or press Ctrl + Enter to execute line-by-line

Understanding Working Directory

The working directory is where R reads/writes files by default.

To check your working directory:

getwd()

To set a new working directory:

setwd("C:/Users/YourName/Documents/R")

Make sure the folder path exists on your system. You can also use:

• Session > Set Working Directory > Choose Directory (in RStudio)

Install and Load Your First Package

Try installing a useful package like ggplot2:

install.packages("ggplot2")
library(ggplot2)

If no errors show up, you’ve successfully installed and loaded a package!

Summary – Recap & Next Steps

Getting started with R involves mastering the console, scripts, and your working directory. These basics lay the foundation for deeper data analysis, plotting, and modeling.

Key Takeaways:

• Use the console for quick code tests
• Use scripts to write reusable R code
• Learn to save files and set the working directory
• Start experimenting with built-in functions and installing packages

Real-World Relevance:
Every R project begins with scripts and data files. Knowing how to navigate RStudio and execute R code smoothly will help you work faster in data science projects, statistical reporting, and academic research.

FAQs – Getting Started with R

What is the difference between R and RStudio?
R is the language; RStudio is an IDE that makes using R easier with menus, panes, and tools.

How do I run code in RStudio?
Type code in the script editor and press Ctrl + Enter to run selected lines or use the Run button.

Where do my scripts get saved?
Scripts are saved as .R files in the folder you select using setwd() or via the RStudio interface.

How do I stop a running R process?
Click the red stop icon in RStudio or press Esc to interrupt execution.

What is the file extension for R programs?
R scripts use the .R extension. For R Markdown reports, use .Rmd.