In Stata 8 or higher, why can't I execute the .graph command as in previous releases?

Beginning with Stata 8, the .graph command has markedly enhanced features and different syntax. Therefore, a .graph that worked in previous releases may or may not work in releases 8, 9, 10 and 11.

Suppose you wish to draw a histogram of a variable named score with a normal distribution curve. In previous releases, you can execute the following command:

This command does not work in releases 8, 9, 10 and 11. Instead, you need to use the newly added .histogram command to get the equivalent output:

If you still wish to use the old style syntax in Stata 8, 9, 10 or 11, you can choose one of two options, which give identical results:

• Set the command interpreter to a lower version, using the .version command: .version 7 .graph score, bin(10) normal
• Use the .graph7 command: .graph7 score, bin(10) normal

For more information about the differences across Stata releases, run the following command:

For more about statistical and mathematical software, email the UITS Stat/Math Center, visit the center's web page, or phone 812-855-4724 (IUB) or 317-278-4740 (IUPUI). The center is located in Bloomington at 410 N. Park Avenue, and is open for consultation by appointment Monday-Friday 9am-5pm.

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