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Spurious correlation #2,735 · View random

A linear line chart with years as the X-axis and two variables on the Y-axis. The first variable is The distance between the Sun and Earth and the second variable is Total Receiving Yards by Steve Smith.  The chart goes from 2001 to 2016, and the two variables track closely in value over that time. Small Image
Download png
, svg

AI explanation

As the distance between the Sun and Earth increases, so does the gravitational pull. This causes the footballs thrown towards Steve Smith to experience slightly less resistance, allowing him to make longer and more spectacular catches. Keep in mind that this is a purely fictional explanation for entertainment purposes, and in reality, Steve Smith's total receiving yards are determined by a variety of factors on the football field!

Model: dalle-3
Prompt: Generate a Polaroid photo style image of a football field with Steve Smith standing in the center, surrounded by a scattering of footballs in different sizes and at various distances from him. The Earth should be depicted in the distance, shrinking as it moves away from the Sun. The footballs should create a visually striking trail, conveying the concept of Steve catching passes from increasingly longer distances due to the weaker gravitational pull caused by the Earth's movement away from the Sun. The image should capture the dynamic and awe-inspiring nature of this scenario, highlighting the skill and agility of Steve Smith as he makes these remarkable catches. The depiction should include only scenes, people, and objects, it should not include text or speech bubbles.
This image generation prompt was also generated by AI, using the following sequence:

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You select one of a few potential scene descriptors that seems to go along with the variables described. You respond only with the scene descriptions provided and say nothing else.
User prompt: Here are two variables: The distance between the Sun and Earth and Total Receiving Yards by Steve Smith. Given these, which of the following image style descriptions seems most appropriate? Pick the one that seems to be related to one of the variables at hand. Please respond with only one of the following potential descriptions: Art nouveau Cyberpunk a meme a Polaroid photo Cute 2D animation
ChatGPT: a Polaroid photo

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You describe simple visual scenes that depict the two variables stated. You combine both variables into one scene.
User prompt: Please describe a visual scene that prominently depicts both The distance between the Sun and Earth and Total Receiving Yards by Steve Smith, in the following situation: As the distance between the Sun and Earth increases, so does the gravitational pull. This causes the footballs thrown towards Steve Smith to experience slightly less resistance, allowing him to make longer and more spectacular catches. Keep in mind that this is a purely fictional explanation for entertainment purposes, and in reality, Steve Smith's total receiving yards are determined by a variety of factors on the football field!. Keep the description simple.
ChatGPT: Imagine the Earth drifting farther away from the Sun, as the increasing distance causes a weaker gravitational pull. In this scenario, Steve Smith is on a football field, and as the Earth moves, he makes remarkable catches, creating an impressive trail of footballs with ever-increasing receiving yards, symbolizing his ability to catch longer and more spectacular passes.

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You write and improve image generation prompts for DALLE-3. You maintain the same subjects, but enhance the visuals.
User prompt: Please respond with an image generation prompt that would be likely to create an interesting visual using DALLE-3, using the following style: [ a Polaroid photo ] and depicting this scene: Imagine the Earth drifting farther away from the Sun, as the increasing distance causes a weaker gravitational pull. In this scenario, Steve Smith is on a football field, and as the Earth moves, he makes remarkable catches, creating an impressive trail of footballs with ever-increasing receiving yards, symbolizing his ability to catch longer and more spectacular passes. Keep the visual depiction simple. Do not include any words or speech bubbles.
ChatGPT: Generate a Polaroid photo style image of a football field with Steve Smith standing in the center, surrounded by a scattering of footballs in different sizes and at various distances from him. The Earth should be depicted in the distance, shrinking as it moves away from the Sun. The footballs should create a visually striking trail, conveying the concept of Steve catching passes from increasingly longer distances due to the weaker gravitational pull caused by the Earth's movement away from the Sun. The image should capture the dynamic and awe-inspiring nature of this scenario, highlighting the skill and agility of Steve Smith as he makes these remarkable catches.

*Variations in the User Prompts from chart to chart are just the result of random number generation in Python. I wrote a few arrays of various styles and methods to ask questions to change up the results. Every time this site writes an explanation or generates an image, the script picks from each at random.

I sequence the requests into multiple prompts because I find GPT 3.5 to perform much better with short, well-managed contexts. Thus, I track the context directly in Python and only ask ChatGPT targeted questions.

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106 (fine-tuned)
System prompt: You provide humorous responses in the form of plausible sounding explanations for correlations. You assume the correlation is causative for the purpose of the explanation even if it is ridiculous. You do not chat with the user, you only reply with the causal connection explanation and nothing else.
User prompt: Please make up a funny explanation for how an increase in The distance between the Sun and Earth caused Total Receiving Yards by Steve Smith to increase.\Make it sound serious until the end.

AI academic paper

(Because p < 0.01)
Spinning Yarns: Does the Sun's Distance Affect Steve Smith's Resilience in Receiving?

The Journal of Solar Psychology

Jan 2024

Reminder: This paper is AI-generated. Not real!
Quick note: This sequence is long and repetitive. That's how the prompt engineering works for this one. I manage the output in Python to format it into this PDF.




Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a witty academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a statistics journal.You write titles and abstracts of goofy academic research papers.
User prompt:
Pretend you are an academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a medical or economics journal. However, you frequently crack jokes, make puns, and add unexpected twists in your writing.

Please draft the title and abstract of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between The distance between the Sun and Earth and Total Receiving Yards by Steve Smith. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns.

Rhyme words in the title.

Your research team used data from Caclculated using Astropy and Pro-football-reference to assess this nagging question. You found a correlation coefficient of 0.6227015 and p < 0.01 for 2001 to 2016.

Please respond in this format (replace "Lorem ipsum dolor sit" with your title and abstract)

[[TITLE]]
Lorem ipsum dolor sit

[[ABSTRACT]]
Lorem ipsum dolor sit



ChatGPT:
[[TITLE]]
Spinning Yarns: Does the Sun's Distance Affect Steve Smith's Resilience in Receiving?

[[ABSTRACT]]
In this groundbreaking study, we embarked on a celestial odyssey to investigate the enigmatic relationship between the distance separating the Earth and the Sun and the total receiving yards racked up by the renowned football maestro, Steve Smith. Utilizing data obtained from the venerable sources of Astropy and Pro-football-reference, our research team rigorously scrutinized the annual variations in the Earth-Sun distance and juxtaposed them with Steve Smith's notable acrobatics on the football field from 2001 to 2016. Our statistical analysis revealed a surprising correlation coefficient of 0.6227015 and a remarkably low p-value of less than 0.01, unraveling an intriguing association between celestial distances and football feats. While our findings may seem as distant as the Sun itself from the realm of football analytics, they unequivocally shed light on the cosmic threads connecting the heavens above and the gridiron below.


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a witty academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a statistics journal.You draft the introduction section of an academic research paper.
User prompt:
Pretend you are an academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a medical or economics journal. However, you frequently crack jokes, make puns, or add unexpected twists in your writing.

Please make up the introduction section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between The distance between the Sun and Earth and Total Receiving Yards by Steve Smith. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns. Stay serious and dry most of the time, but then occasionally let your wit shine through.

Here is the title and abstract of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
Spinning Yarns: Does the Sun's Distance Affect Steve Smith's Resilience in Receiving?

[[ABSTRACT]]
In this groundbreaking study, we embarked on a celestial odyssey to investigate the enigmatic relationship between the distance separating the Earth and the Sun and the total receiving yards racked up by the renowned football maestro, Steve Smith. Utilizing data obtained from the venerable sources of Astropy and Pro-football-reference, our research team rigorously scrutinized the annual variations in the Earth-Sun distance and juxtaposed them with Steve Smith's notable acrobatics on the football field from 2001 to 2016. Our statistical analysis revealed a surprising correlation coefficient of 0.6227015 and a remarkably low p-value of less than 0.01, unraveling an intriguing association between celestial distances and football feats. While our findings may seem as distant as the Sun itself from the realm of football analytics, they unequivocally shed light on the cosmic threads connecting the heavens above and the gridiron below.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[INTRODUCTION]]



ChatGPT:
[[INTRODUCTION]]

In the realm of sports analysis, the connection between celestial phenomena and athletic performance has been an area of little exploration, often overshadowed by more traditional physical and statistical factors. However, in the grand tapestry of sports analytics, we cannot dismiss any potential influence, no matter how seemingly far-fetched. Thus, we embarked on a journey that would rival Odysseus’ quest, seeking to unravel the cosmic web that binds the football prowess of Steve Smith with the astronomical dance of the Earth and the Sun.

Much like the intricate patterns woven by a cosmic seamstress, the interplay of celestial bodies has long captured the imagination of mankind. From ancient star gazers to modern astronomers, the movements of the celestial bodies have been subject to study and speculation. Our endeavor, though not concerned with the creation of celestial garments, sought to tease out the subtle interplay between the distance separating the Sun and the Earth, and its potential impact on the gridiron exploits of Steve Smith, a luminary in his own right.

While one might be inclined to dismiss such inquiries as mere flights of fancy, our methodology was anything but whimsical. No stone was left unturned in our pursuit of truth, and no touchdown was scored without rigorous statistical scrutiny. Our data, sourced from reputable establishments such as Astropy and Pro-football-reference, underwent painstaking scrutiny and analysis. The numbers, like the stars in the night sky, were studied with precision and care, in the hopes of revealing the elusive threads of correlation.

As we delve into the depths of our investigation, it becomes clear that the astrophysical aspect is not merely an embellishment to the narrative of Steve Smith’s career. Rather, it serves as a lens through which we can gain fresh insight into his accomplishments. The celestial ballet of the Earth and the Sun may hold unexpected keys to our understanding of the resiliency and adaptability displayed by this mercurial athlete on the field. Just as the planets orbit the Sun in a complex cosmic dance, so too does the receiver navigate the ever-changing landscape of the football field.

This study represents a departure from traditional sports analysis, where statistics are often confined to the earthly realm of player performance and physical attributes. By intertwining these earthbound statistics with planetary movements, we aim to showcase the boundless potential for discovery that lies at the intersection of sports and celestial mechanics. Though our journey may seem whimsical at first glance, it is grounded in the bedrock of statistical analysis and academic rigor, ready to shed light on the celestial connections that may shape our understanding of athletic achievement.


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a witty academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a statistics journal.You draft a literature review section of an academic research paper, that starts out dry for the first few sentences but then becomes hilarious and goofy.
User prompt:
Pretend you are an academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a medical or economics journal. However, you frequently crack jokes, make puns, or add unexpected twists in your writing.

Please make up a literature review section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between The distance between the Sun and Earth and Total Receiving Yards by Steve Smith. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns.

Speak in the present tense for this section (the authors find...), as is common in academic research paper literature reviews. Name the sources in a format similar to this: In "Book," the authors find lorem and ipsum.

Make up the lorem and ipsum part, but make it sound related to the topic at hand.

Start by naming serious-sounding studies by authors like Smith, Doe, and Jones - but then quickly devolve. Name some real non-fiction books that would be related to the topic. Then name some real fiction books that sound like they could be related. Then cite some social media posts you read that seem to be related.

Here is the title and abstract of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
Spinning Yarns: Does the Sun's Distance Affect Steve Smith's Resilience in Receiving?

[[ABSTRACT]]
In this groundbreaking study, we embarked on a celestial odyssey to investigate the enigmatic relationship between the distance separating the Earth and the Sun and the total receiving yards racked up by the renowned football maestro, Steve Smith. Utilizing data obtained from the venerable sources of Astropy and Pro-football-reference, our research team rigorously scrutinized the annual variations in the Earth-Sun distance and juxtaposed them with Steve Smith's notable acrobatics on the football field from 2001 to 2016. Our statistical analysis revealed a surprising correlation coefficient of 0.6227015 and a remarkably low p-value of less than 0.01, unraveling an intriguing association between celestial distances and football feats. While our findings may seem as distant as the Sun itself from the realm of football analytics, they unequivocally shed light on the cosmic threads connecting the heavens above and the gridiron below.

-------

And here is the introduction section that led to this literature review:
[[INTRODUCTION]]
In the realm of sports analysis, the connection between celestial phenomena and athletic performance has been an area of little exploration, often overshadowed by more traditional physical and statistical factors. However, in the grand tapestry of sports analytics, we cannot dismiss any potential influence, no matter how seemingly far-fetched. Thus, we embarked on a journey that would rival Odysseus’ quest, seeking to unravel the cosmic web that binds the football prowess of Steve Smith with the astronomical dance of the Earth and the Sun.
Much like the intricate patterns woven by a cosmic seamstress, the interplay of celestial bodies has long captured the imagination of mankind. From ancient star gazers to modern astronomers, the movements of the celestial bodies have been subject to study and speculation. Our endeavor, though not concerned with the creation of celestial garments, sought to tease out the subtle interplay between the distance separating the Sun and the Earth, and its potential impact on the gridiron exploits of Steve Smith, a luminary in his own right.
While one might be inclined to dismiss such inquiries as mere flights of fancy, our methodology was anything but whimsical. No stone was left unturned in our pursuit of truth, and no touchdown was scored without rigorous statistical scrutiny. Our data, sourced from reputable establishments such as Astropy and Pro-football-reference, underwent painstaking scrutiny and analysis. The numbers, like the stars in the night sky, were studied with precision and care, in the hopes of revealing the elusive threads of correlation.
As we delve into the depths of our investigation, it becomes clear that the astrophysical aspect is not merely an embellishment to the narrative of Steve Smith’s career. Rather, it serves as a lens through which we can gain fresh insight into his accomplishments. The celestial ballet of the Earth and the Sun may hold unexpected keys to our understanding of the resiliency and adaptability displayed by this mercurial athlete on the field. Just as the planets orbit the Sun in a complex cosmic dance, so too does the receiver navigate the ever-changing landscape of the football field.
This study represents a departure from traditional sports analysis, where statistics are often confined to the earthly realm of player performance and physical attributes. By intertwining these earthbound statistics with planetary movements, we aim to showcase the boundless potential for discovery that lies at the intersection of sports and celestial mechanics. Though our journey may seem whimsical at first glance, it is grounded in the bedrock of statistical analysis and academic rigor, ready to shed light on the celestial connections that may shape our understanding of athletic achievement.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]



ChatGPT:
[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]

In their seminal work, "The Solar System and Athletic Prowess," Smith et al. examine the potential ramifications of celestial distances on athletic performance. Their extensive analysis of various sports metrics reveals an intriguing pattern, suggesting a plausible connection between the Earth-Sun distance and the agility of athletes. This study lays a foundational understanding and prompts further investigation into the cosmic influence on the physical abilities of individuals.

Further contributing to the discourse, Doe and Jones, in "Celestial Bodies and Sporting Feats," present a comprehensive review of historical celestial events and their intersection with remarkable athletic achievements. Their examination encompasses exceptional cases from a wide array of sports, shedding light on the potential correlations between astronomical occurrences and notable athletic performances.

While these initial investigations set a serious tone for the exploration of cosmic factors in sports, our foray into the literature on this subject matter uncovers a more eclectic array of sources that touch upon the tangential connections between celestial phenomena and athletic accomplishments. Books such as "Astrology of the Gridiron: Planetary Signs and Touchdown Times" and "Football Under the Stars: A Cosmic Perspective on Athletic Triumph" present fanciful, yet thought-provoking, speculations on the intersection of astrology and sports. Though these works tread the line between scholarly inquiry and celestial amusement, they offer unique perspectives that contribute to the broader conversation on the cosmic dimensions of athletic triumphs.

Delving further into the obscure realms of fiction, works such as "The Sun Also Throws" and "To the End Zone and Beyond: A Cosmic Receiving Odyssey" maneuver between the boundaries of imaginative storytelling and speculative cosmic influences on athletic endeavor. These literary creations, while firmly situated in the realm of make-believe, serve as intriguing testaments to the human fascination with juxtaposing the celestial with the terrestrial, even in the context of professional sports.

It is worth noting that in our quest for literature that speaks to the peculiar ties between celestial distances and athletic prowess, social media has emerged as a surprising font of informal yet captivating anecdotes. Numerous Twitter threads and Instagram posts recount curious coincidences between planetary alignments and exceptional athletic performances. Though these accounts may lack the empirical rigor of academic studies, they add a layer of contemporary societal engagement with the intertwining of celestial phenomena and sporting achievements, offering a glimpse into the pervasive hold of cosmic fascination in popular imagination.


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a witty academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a statistics journal.You draft the methodology section of an academic research paper.
User prompt:
Pretend you are an academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a medical or economics journal. However, you frequently crack jokes, make puns, or add unexpected twists in your writing.

Please make up the methodology section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between The distance between the Sun and Earth and Total Receiving Yards by Steve Smith. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns. Stay serious and dry most of the time, but then occasionally let your wit shine through.

Your research team collected data from all across the internet, but mostly just used information from Caclculated using Astropy and Pro-football-reference . You used data from 2001 to 2016

Make up the research methods you don't know. Make them a bit goofy and convoluted.

Here is the title, abstract, and introduction of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
Spinning Yarns: Does the Sun's Distance Affect Steve Smith's Resilience in Receiving?

[[ABSTRACT]]
In this groundbreaking study, we embarked on a celestial odyssey to investigate the enigmatic relationship between the distance separating the Earth and the Sun and the total receiving yards racked up by the renowned football maestro, Steve Smith. Utilizing data obtained from the venerable sources of Astropy and Pro-football-reference, our research team rigorously scrutinized the annual variations in the Earth-Sun distance and juxtaposed them with Steve Smith's notable acrobatics on the football field from 2001 to 2016. Our statistical analysis revealed a surprising correlation coefficient of 0.6227015 and a remarkably low p-value of less than 0.01, unraveling an intriguing association between celestial distances and football feats. While our findings may seem as distant as the Sun itself from the realm of football analytics, they unequivocally shed light on the cosmic threads connecting the heavens above and the gridiron below.

[[INTRODUCTION]]
In the realm of sports analysis, the connection between celestial phenomena and athletic performance has been an area of little exploration, often overshadowed by more traditional physical and statistical factors. However, in the grand tapestry of sports analytics, we cannot dismiss any potential influence, no matter how seemingly far-fetched. Thus, we embarked on a journey that would rival Odysseus’ quest, seeking to unravel the cosmic web that binds the football prowess of Steve Smith with the astronomical dance of the Earth and the Sun.
Much like the intricate patterns woven by a cosmic seamstress, the interplay of celestial bodies has long captured the imagination of mankind. From ancient star gazers to modern astronomers, the movements of the celestial bodies have been subject to study and speculation. Our endeavor, though not concerned with the creation of celestial garments, sought to tease out the subtle interplay between the distance separating the Sun and the Earth, and its potential impact on the gridiron exploits of Steve Smith, a luminary in his own right.
While one might be inclined to dismiss such inquiries as mere flights of fancy, our methodology was anything but whimsical. No stone was left unturned in our pursuit of truth, and no touchdown was scored without rigorous statistical scrutiny. Our data, sourced from reputable establishments such as Astropy and Pro-football-reference, underwent painstaking scrutiny and analysis. The numbers, like the stars in the night sky, were studied with precision and care, in the hopes of revealing the elusive threads of correlation.
As we delve into the depths of our investigation, it becomes clear that the astrophysical aspect is not merely an embellishment to the narrative of Steve Smith’s career. Rather, it serves as a lens through which we can gain fresh insight into his accomplishments. The celestial ballet of the Earth and the Sun may hold unexpected keys to our understanding of the resiliency and adaptability displayed by this mercurial athlete on the field. Just as the planets orbit the Sun in a complex cosmic dance, so too does the receiver navigate the ever-changing landscape of the football field.
This study represents a departure from traditional sports analysis, where statistics are often confined to the earthly realm of player performance and physical attributes. By intertwining these earthbound statistics with planetary movements, we aim to showcase the boundless potential for discovery that lies at the intersection of sports and celestial mechanics. Though our journey may seem whimsical at first glance, it is grounded in the bedrock of statistical analysis and academic rigor, ready to shed light on the celestial connections that may shape our understanding of athletic achievement.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[METHODOLOGY]]



ChatGPT:

[[METHODOLOGY]]

To unpack the cosmic enigma fueling our inquiry, we engaged in a methodological endeavor that was as meticulous as it was unconventional. Our approach sought to bridge the quixotic realms of astrophysics and gridiron glory, melding statistical analysis with celestial mechanics in a quest to elucidate the celestial fibers that seemingly interweave the Earth-Sun distance with the gridiron finesse of Steve Smith.

Data Collection:
Our research journey commenced with the acquisition of data from the astronomical compendium Astropy, known for its celestial prowess, and the venerable Pro-football-reference, renowned for its encyclopedic repository of football statistics. The years spanning from 2001 to 2016 were our temporal domain, encompassing a celestial corridor rich with annual variations in the Earth-Sun distance and Steve Smith's remarkable receiving feats.

Celestial Parameters:
With the precision of an interstellar cartographer, we meticulously cataloged the Earth-Sun distance using validated astronomical measurements. These calculations, akin to charting the trajectories of celestial bodies, provided the foundation upon which our celestial analysis would unfurl.

Football Metrics:
In parallel, we delved into the statistical annals of Steve Smith's receiving yards, capturing the expanse of his gridiron exploits with the keen eye of a star-gazing voyager. The quantified representation of his football feats formed the stalwart pillar supporting the terrestrial facet of our investigation.

Statistical Measures:
Like navigating the cosmic expanse with a trusty compass, we employed statistical analyses to discern underlying patterns within our data. Our methodology encompassed the calculation of correlation coefficients, hinging upon the revered Pearson correlation and Spearman rank correlation tests. The resultant statistics proffered insight into the degree of association between the Earth-Sun distance and Steve Smith's receiving yards, serving as the linchpin of our investigative framework.

Model Development:
In an endeavor to encapsulate the celestial ebb and flow, we conceived a conceptual model that sought to render the interplay between the Earth-Sun distance and Smith's receiving yards in a statistically coherent manner. Through regression analysis and time series modeling, we endeavored to untangle the celestial yarn that may silently weave amidst the statistical fabric of football prowess.

Control Variables:
Acknowledging the complex tapestry of football dynamics, we remained cognizant of potential confounding variables, from quarterback performance to team strategies. These considerations encompassed the orbit of our investigation, ensuring that the celestial hue did not obscure the nuanced influences prevalent in the footballing milieu.

Interdisciplinary Synthesis:
To elucidate the interstellar synergy underpinning our inquiry, we undertook an interdisciplinary synthesis, fostering a dialogue between the celestial and athletic domains. By marrying astronomy with football analytics, we endeavored to transcend the gravitational pull of conventional sports analysis and venture into the cosmos of atypical inquiry.

The amalgamation of celestial and terrestrial data sets, culminating in a convergence of statistics and astronomical veracity, forms the bedrock upon which our methodological endeavor is hinged. Our approach, while predicated on academic rigor, ventures to unfurl the cosmic fibers that enshroud the improbable connection between the Earth-Sun distance and the prodigious feats of Steve Smith on the gridiron.


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a witty academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a statistics journal.You draft the results section of an academic research paper. You speak in the past tense (you found...).
User prompt:
Pretend you are an academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a medical or economics journal. However, you frequently crack jokes, make puns, or add unexpected twists in your writing.

Please make up the results section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between The distance between the Sun and Earth and Total Receiving Yards by Steve Smith. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns. Stay serious and dry most of the time, but then occasionally let your wit shine through.

Your research team collected data from all across the internet, but mostly just used information from Caclculated using Astropy and Pro-football-reference .

For the time period 2001 to 2016, you found a correlation 0.6227015, r-squared of 0.3877572, and p < 0.01.

One figure will be included. The figure (Fig. 1) is a scatterplot showing the strong correlation between the two variables. You don't need to specify where; I will add the figure.

Here is the title and abstract of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
Spinning Yarns: Does the Sun's Distance Affect Steve Smith's Resilience in Receiving?

[[ABSTRACT]]
In this groundbreaking study, we embarked on a celestial odyssey to investigate the enigmatic relationship between the distance separating the Earth and the Sun and the total receiving yards racked up by the renowned football maestro, Steve Smith. Utilizing data obtained from the venerable sources of Astropy and Pro-football-reference, our research team rigorously scrutinized the annual variations in the Earth-Sun distance and juxtaposed them with Steve Smith's notable acrobatics on the football field from 2001 to 2016. Our statistical analysis revealed a surprising correlation coefficient of 0.6227015 and a remarkably low p-value of less than 0.01, unraveling an intriguing association between celestial distances and football feats. While our findings may seem as distant as the Sun itself from the realm of football analytics, they unequivocally shed light on the cosmic threads connecting the heavens above and the gridiron below.

-------

And here is the methodology section that led to this result:
[[METHODOLOGY]]
In the realm of sports analysis, the connection between celestial phenomena and athletic performance has been an area of little exploration, often overshadowed by more traditional physical and statistical factors. However, in the grand tapestry of sports analytics, we cannot dismiss any potential influence, no matter how seemingly far-fetched. Thus, we embarked on a journey that would rival Odysseus’ quest, seeking to unravel the cosmic web that binds the football prowess of Steve Smith with the astronomical dance of the Earth and the Sun.
Much like the intricate patterns woven by a cosmic seamstress, the interplay of celestial bodies has long captured the imagination of mankind. From ancient star gazers to modern astronomers, the movements of the celestial bodies have been subject to study and speculation. Our endeavor, though not concerned with the creation of celestial garments, sought to tease out the subtle interplay between the distance separating the Sun and the Earth, and its potential impact on the gridiron exploits of Steve Smith, a luminary in his own right.
While one might be inclined to dismiss such inquiries as mere flights of fancy, our methodology was anything but whimsical. No stone was left unturned in our pursuit of truth, and no touchdown was scored without rigorous statistical scrutiny. Our data, sourced from reputable establishments such as Astropy and Pro-football-reference, underwent painstaking scrutiny and analysis. The numbers, like the stars in the night sky, were studied with precision and care, in the hopes of revealing the elusive threads of correlation.
As we delve into the depths of our investigation, it becomes clear that the astrophysical aspect is not merely an embellishment to the narrative of Steve Smith’s career. Rather, it serves as a lens through which we can gain fresh insight into his accomplishments. The celestial ballet of the Earth and the Sun may hold unexpected keys to our understanding of the resiliency and adaptability displayed by this mercurial athlete on the field. Just as the planets orbit the Sun in a complex cosmic dance, so too does the receiver navigate the ever-changing landscape of the football field.
This study represents a departure from traditional sports analysis, where statistics are often confined to the earthly realm of player performance and physical attributes. By intertwining these earthbound statistics with planetary movements, we aim to showcase the boundless potential for discovery that lies at the intersection of sports and celestial mechanics. Though our journey may seem whimsical at first glance, it is grounded in the bedrock of statistical analysis and academic rigor, ready to shed light on the celestial connections that may shape our understanding of athletic achievement.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[RESULTS]]



ChatGPT:

[[RESULTS]]

The statistical analysis of the connection between the distance separating the Earth and the Sun and Steve Smith's total receiving yards yielded some noteworthy findings. Our examination of the data spanning from 2001 to 2016 revealed a correlation coefficient of 0.6227015, indicating a moderately strong positive relationship between these celestial distances and Smith's gridiron achievements. The r-squared value of 0.3877572 further signifies that approximately 38.8% of the variability in Steve Smith's receiving yards can be accounted for by variations in the Earth-Sun distance. The p-value of less than 0.01 suggests that this correlation is statistically significant, giving us strong confidence in the observed relationship.

To visually capture this astronomical association with football performance, we present Fig. 1, a scatterplot exhibiting the robust correlation between the distance from the Sun to the Earth and Steve Smith's total receiving yards. This scatterplot showcases the compelling relationship between these seemingly disparate phenomena, demonstrating how the Earth-Sun distance plays a non-negligible role in Steve Smith's receiving prowess.

Our findings, while initially raising some eyebrows, pave the way for further exploration into the celestial influences on athletic achievements. The unexpected connection between the fathomless abyss of space and the painted lines of the football field may seem as improbable as a touchdown scored from midfield, yet our rigorous statistical analysis unequivocally validates this intriguing association. These results underscore the need to broaden the horizons of sports analytics, recognizing that the cosmos may hold hidden clues to the performance of athletes.


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a witty academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a statistics journal.You draft the discussion section of an academic research paper.
User prompt:
Pretend you are an academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a medical or economics journal. However, you frequently crack jokes, make puns, or add unexpected twists in your writing.

Please make up the discussion section of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between The distance between the Sun and Earth and Total Receiving Yards by Steve Smith. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns. Stay serious and dry most of the time, but then occasionally let your wit shine through.

Limit your response to 500 tokens.

Here are the title, abstract, literature review, and results sections. Please harken back to 1-2 of the goofy items in the literature review, but pretend to take them completely seriously. Discuss how your results supported the prior research.

Do not write a conclusion. I will add a conclusion after this.

[[TITLE]]
Spinning Yarns: Does the Sun's Distance Affect Steve Smith's Resilience in Receiving?

[[ABSTRACT]]
In this groundbreaking study, we embarked on a celestial odyssey to investigate the enigmatic relationship between the distance separating the Earth and the Sun and the total receiving yards racked up by the renowned football maestro, Steve Smith. Utilizing data obtained from the venerable sources of Astropy and Pro-football-reference, our research team rigorously scrutinized the annual variations in the Earth-Sun distance and juxtaposed them with Steve Smith's notable acrobatics on the football field from 2001 to 2016. Our statistical analysis revealed a surprising correlation coefficient of 0.6227015 and a remarkably low p-value of less than 0.01, unraveling an intriguing association between celestial distances and football feats. While our findings may seem as distant as the Sun itself from the realm of football analytics, they unequivocally shed light on the cosmic threads connecting the heavens above and the gridiron below.

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]
In their seminal work, "The Solar System and Athletic Prowess," Smith et al. examine the potential ramifications of celestial distances on athletic performance. Their extensive analysis of various sports metrics reveals an intriguing pattern, suggesting a plausible connection between the Earth-Sun distance and the agility of athletes. This study lays a foundational understanding and prompts further investigation into the cosmic influence on the physical abilities of individuals.
Further contributing to the discourse, Doe and Jones, in "Celestial Bodies and Sporting Feats," present a comprehensive review of historical celestial events and their intersection with remarkable athletic achievements. Their examination encompasses exceptional cases from a wide array of sports, shedding light on the potential correlations between astronomical occurrences and notable athletic performances.
While these initial investigations set a serious tone for the exploration of cosmic factors in sports, our foray into the literature on this subject matter uncovers a more eclectic array of sources that touch upon the tangential connections between celestial phenomena and athletic accomplishments. Books such as "Astrology of the Gridiron: Planetary Signs and Touchdown Times" and "Football Under the Stars: A Cosmic Perspective on Athletic Triumph" present fanciful, yet thought-provoking, speculations on the intersection of astrology and sports. Though these works tread the line between scholarly inquiry and celestial amusement, they offer unique perspectives that contribute to the broader conversation on the cosmic dimensions of athletic triumphs.
Delving further into the obscure realms of fiction, works such as "The Sun Also Throws" and "To the End Zone and Beyond: A Cosmic Receiving Odyssey" maneuver between the boundaries of imaginative storytelling and speculative cosmic influences on athletic endeavor. These literary creations, while firmly situated in the realm of make-believe, serve as intriguing testaments to the human fascination with juxtaposing the celestial with the terrestrial, even in the context of professional sports.
It is worth noting that in our quest for literature that speaks to the peculiar ties between celestial distances and athletic prowess, social media has emerged as a surprising font of informal yet captivating anecdotes. Numerous Twitter threads and Instagram posts recount curious coincidences between planetary alignments and exceptional athletic performances. Though these accounts may lack the empirical rigor of academic studies, they add a layer of contemporary societal engagement with the intertwining of celestial phenomena and sporting achievements, offering a glimpse into the pervasive hold of cosmic fascination in popular imagination.

[[RESULTS]]
The statistical analysis of the connection between the distance separating the Earth and the Sun and Steve Smith's total receiving yards yielded some noteworthy findings. Our examination of the data spanning from 2001 to 2016 revealed a correlation coefficient of 0.6227015, indicating a moderately strong positive relationship between these celestial distances and Smith's gridiron achievements. The r-squared value of 0.3877572 further signifies that approximately 38.8% of the variability in Steve Smith's receiving yards can be accounted for by variations in the Earth-Sun distance. The p-value of less than 0.01 suggests that this correlation is statistically significant, giving us strong confidence in the observed relationship.
To visually capture this astronomical association with football performance, we present Fig. 1, a scatterplot exhibiting the robust correlation between the distance from the Sun to the Earth and Steve Smith's total receiving yards. This scatterplot showcases the compelling relationship between these seemingly disparate phenomena, demonstrating how the Earth-Sun distance plays a non-negligible role in Steve Smith's receiving prowess.
Our findings, while initially raising some eyebrows, pave the way for further exploration into the celestial influences on athletic achievements. The unexpected connection between the fathomless abyss of space and the painted lines of the football field may seem as improbable as a touchdown scored from midfield, yet our rigorous statistical analysis unequivocally validates this intriguing association. These results underscore the need to broaden the horizons of sports analytics, recognizing that the cosmos may hold hidden clues to the performance of athletes.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[DISCUSSION]]



ChatGPT:

[[DISCUSSION]]

The findings of our study not only add a celestial twist to football analytics but also substantiate the speculative work on the cosmic dimensions of athletic prowess. The notion that the distance separating the Earth and the Sun could have any bearing on a football player's receiving yards may seem as surreal as a Hail Mary pass, but our results lend credence to the uncharted territory of astrological athleticism.

In line with the precedent set by Smith et al., our study contributes to the growing body of research that dares to consider the astronomical in conjunction with the physical. Building upon the earlier inquiries into the connection between celestial distances and athletic performance, our investigation demonstrates a statistically significant correlation between the Earth-Sun distance and the on-field exploits of Steve Smith. The correlation coefficient of 0.6227015 that emerged from our analysis aligns closely with previous conjectures about the potential cosmic influences on sporting achievements.

Our results not only reinforce the notion of celestial forces subtly at play in athletic arenas but also emphasize the need to expand the horizons of empirical inquiry in sports analytics. While the concept of cosmic correlations in the realm of sports may seem like a flight of fancy, our rigorous statistical analysis underscores the significance of the unearthed association between celestial distances and football feats.

The scatterplot presented in Fig. 1 provides a visual testament to the surprising relationship between the Earth-Sun distance and Steve Smith's receiving yards. This graphical depiction reinforces the robustness of the statistical correlation, highlighting the compelling union between the celestial and the terrestrial in the context of professional sports. Indeed, one might say that our findings shed light on a whole new dimension of "stellar" performance in the world of athletic competition.

In conclusion, our research offers a celestial kaleidoscope through which to view the feats achieved on the gridiron. The interweaving of the cosmic and the athletic unfolds as a narrative that challenges conventional sporting wisdom, inviting further exploration of the cosmic tapestry that may be invisibly threaded through the achievements of athletes. As we bask in the glow of these unexpected findings, we cannot help but marvel at the celestial ballet that underpins the seemingly mundane action of catching a football—truly, a cosmic touchdown.


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a witty academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a statistics journal.You draft the discussion section of goofy academic research papers that sounds like it belongs based on the title and abstract provided.
User prompt:
Pretend you are an academic researcher. Your writing sounds like it belongs in a medical or economics journal. However, you frequently crack jokes, make puns, or add unexpected twists in your writing.

Please make up a short conclusion of an academic research paper presenting the findings of the connection between The distance between the Sun and Earth and Total Receiving Yards by Steve Smith. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns. Stay serious and dry most of the time, but then occasionally let your wit shine through.

Limit your response to 300 tokens. At the very end, assert that no more research is needed in this area.

Here are the title, abstract, introduction, and results sections.
[[TITLE]]
Spinning Yarns: Does the Sun's Distance Affect Steve Smith's Resilience in Receiving?

[[ABSTRACT]]
In this groundbreaking study, we embarked on a celestial odyssey to investigate the enigmatic relationship between the distance separating the Earth and the Sun and the total receiving yards racked up by the renowned football maestro, Steve Smith. Utilizing data obtained from the venerable sources of Astropy and Pro-football-reference, our research team rigorously scrutinized the annual variations in the Earth-Sun distance and juxtaposed them with Steve Smith's notable acrobatics on the football field from 2001 to 2016. Our statistical analysis revealed a surprising correlation coefficient of 0.6227015 and a remarkably low p-value of less than 0.01, unraveling an intriguing association between celestial distances and football feats. While our findings may seem as distant as the Sun itself from the realm of football analytics, they unequivocally shed light on the cosmic threads connecting the heavens above and the gridiron below.

[[INTRDUCTION]]
In the realm of sports analysis, the connection between celestial phenomena and athletic performance has been an area of little exploration, often overshadowed by more traditional physical and statistical factors. However, in the grand tapestry of sports analytics, we cannot dismiss any potential influence, no matter how seemingly far-fetched. Thus, we embarked on a journey that would rival Odysseus’ quest, seeking to unravel the cosmic web that binds the football prowess of Steve Smith with the astronomical dance of the Earth and the Sun.
Much like the intricate patterns woven by a cosmic seamstress, the interplay of celestial bodies has long captured the imagination of mankind. From ancient star gazers to modern astronomers, the movements of the celestial bodies have been subject to study and speculation. Our endeavor, though not concerned with the creation of celestial garments, sought to tease out the subtle interplay between the distance separating the Sun and the Earth, and its potential impact on the gridiron exploits of Steve Smith, a luminary in his own right.
While one might be inclined to dismiss such inquiries as mere flights of fancy, our methodology was anything but whimsical. No stone was left unturned in our pursuit of truth, and no touchdown was scored without rigorous statistical scrutiny. Our data, sourced from reputable establishments such as Astropy and Pro-football-reference, underwent painstaking scrutiny and analysis. The numbers, like the stars in the night sky, were studied with precision and care, in the hopes of revealing the elusive threads of correlation.
As we delve into the depths of our investigation, it becomes clear that the astrophysical aspect is not merely an embellishment to the narrative of Steve Smith’s career. Rather, it serves as a lens through which we can gain fresh insight into his accomplishments. The celestial ballet of the Earth and the Sun may hold unexpected keys to our understanding of the resiliency and adaptability displayed by this mercurial athlete on the field. Just as the planets orbit the Sun in a complex cosmic dance, so too does the receiver navigate the ever-changing landscape of the football field.
This study represents a departure from traditional sports analysis, where statistics are often confined to the earthly realm of player performance and physical attributes. By intertwining these earthbound statistics with planetary movements, we aim to showcase the boundless potential for discovery that lies at the intersection of sports and celestial mechanics. Though our journey may seem whimsical at first glance, it is grounded in the bedrock of statistical analysis and academic rigor, ready to shed light on the celestial connections that may shape our understanding of athletic achievement.

[[RESULTS]]
The statistical analysis of the connection between the distance separating the Earth and the Sun and Steve Smith's total receiving yards yielded some noteworthy findings. Our examination of the data spanning from 2001 to 2016 revealed a correlation coefficient of 0.6227015, indicating a moderately strong positive relationship between these celestial distances and Smith's gridiron achievements. The r-squared value of 0.3877572 further signifies that approximately 38.8% of the variability in Steve Smith's receiving yards can be accounted for by variations in the Earth-Sun distance. The p-value of less than 0.01 suggests that this correlation is statistically significant, giving us strong confidence in the observed relationship.
To visually capture this astronomical association with football performance, we present Fig. 1, a scatterplot exhibiting the robust correlation between the distance from the Sun to the Earth and Steve Smith's total receiving yards. This scatterplot showcases the compelling relationship between these seemingly disparate phenomena, demonstrating how the Earth-Sun distance plays a non-negligible role in Steve Smith's receiving prowess.
Our findings, while initially raising some eyebrows, pave the way for further exploration into the celestial influences on athletic achievements. The unexpected connection between the fathomless abyss of space and the painted lines of the football field may seem as improbable as a touchdown scored from midfield, yet our rigorous statistical analysis unequivocally validates this intriguing association. These results underscore the need to broaden the horizons of sports analytics, recognizing that the cosmos may hold hidden clues to the performance of athletes.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[CONCLUSION]]



ChatGPT:

[[CONCLUSION]]
In conclusion, the celestial ballet of the Earth and the Sun appears to have more influence on terrestrial matters than meets the eye, as demonstrated by the intriguing correlation between the distance separating these celestial bodies and Steve Smith's receiving yards. The statistically significant correlation coefficient of 0.6227015, coupled with the r-squared value of 0.3877572, highlights the substantial impact of these cosmic distances on Smith's on-field performance. Our findings provide a cosmic twist to the traditional narratives of sports analytics, reminding us that in the vast expanse of statistical exploration, the celestial may intertwine with the terrestrial in unexpected ways.

It is worth noting that while our study unveils this cosmic connection, it raises more questions than it answers. Are there cosmic "hot spots" where the Earth-Sun distance aligns favorably with the trajectory of footballs? Could gravitational fluctuations between these heavenly bodies subtly guide the flight of the pigskin towards a receiver? Perhaps further research is warranted to delve into these cosmic conundrums. However, for now, we confidently assert that our findings contribute a star-studded dimension to the understanding of athletic performance.

In the grand tapestry of statistical inquiry, our celestial excursion may seem like a celestial long shot, but it undoubtedly enriches the broader discourse on sports analytics. Thus, this study calls for a broader perspective in sports analysis, reminding researchers not to eclipse the potential influences of celestial phenomena. Finally, our findings suggest that no matter how far-fetched an idea may seem at first, it's worth exploring with an open mind. Therefore, we maintain that no further research is needed in this area, as we have truly reached the outer limits of this celestial conversation.


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You provide fictional names of academic journals. You say nothing else, and you do not chat with the user.
User prompt: Please provide the name of a funny but plausible sounding research, scientific, or academic journal that would publish a paper entited Spinning Yarns: Does the Sun's Distance Affect Steve Smith's Resilience in Receiving?. Respond only with the name of a fictional academic journal.

ChatGPT:

The Journal of Solar Psychology


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You provide fictional names of nonprofit research organizations and associations. You say nothing else, and you do not chat with the user.
User prompt: Please provide the name of a funny but plausible sounding nonprofit, academic, or scientific association or organization that would sponsor research that resulted in a paper entited Spinning Yarns: Does the Sun's Distance Affect Steve Smith's Resilience in Receiving?. Respond only with the name of a fictional organization.

ChatGPT:

The Association for Interstellar Cultural Impact Studies


Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You provide potential search keywords separated by commas. You say nothing else, and you do not chat with the user.
User prompt: Please provide potential search keywords for a paper titled Spinning Yarns: Does the Sun's Distance Affect Steve Smith's Resilience in Receiving? with an abstract of In this groundbreaking study, we embarked on a celestial odyssey to investigate the enigmatic relationship between the distance separating the Earth and the Sun and the total receiving yards racked up by the renowned football maestro, Steve Smith. Utilizing data obtained from the venerable sources of Astropy and Pro-football-reference, our research team rigorously scrutinized the annual variations in the Earth-Sun distance and juxtaposed them with Steve Smith's notable acrobatics on the football field from 2001 to 2016. Our statistical analysis revealed a surprising correlation coefficient of 0.6227015 and a remarkably low p-value of less than 0.01, unraveling an intriguing association between celestial distances and football feats. While our findings may seem as distant as the Sun itself from the realm of football analytics, they unequivocally shed light on the cosmic threads connecting the heavens above and the gridiron below.

ChatGPT:

Steve Smith, resilience, receiving, celestial distance, Earth-Sun distance, football, statistical analysis, correlation coefficient, p-value, celestial bodies, football analytics, gridiron, Astropy, Pro-football-reference

*There is a bunch of Python happening behind the scenes to turn this prompt sequence into a PDF.



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Data details

The distance between the Sun and Earth
Detailed data title: The average distance between the Sun and Earth as measured on the first day of each month
Source: Caclculated using Astropy
Additional Info: I wrote a Python script using Astropy to calculate the distance between the named planets on the first day of each month for every year.

See what else correlates with The distance between the Sun and Earth

Total Receiving Yards by Steve Smith
Source: Pro-football-reference
See what else correlates with Total Receiving Yards by Steve Smith

Correlation r = 0.6227015 (Pearson correlation coefficient)
Correlation is a measure of how much the variables move together. If it is 0.99, when one goes up the other goes up. If it is 0.02, the connection is very weak or non-existent. If it is -0.99, then when one goes up the other goes down. If it is 1.00, you probably messed up your correlation function.

r2 = 0.3877572 (Coefficient of determination)
This means 38.8% of the change in the one variable (i.e., Total Receiving Yards by Steve Smith) is predictable based on the change in the other (i.e., The distance between the Sun and Earth) over the 16 years from 2001 through 2016.

p < 0.01, which is statistically significant(Null hypothesis significance test)
The p-value is 0.01. 0.0099828771263787700000000000
The p-value is a measure of how probable it is that we would randomly find a result this extreme. More specifically the p-value is a measure of how probable it is that we would randomly find a result this extreme if we had only tested one pair of variables one time.

But I am a p-villain. I absolutely did not test only one pair of variables one time. I correlated hundreds of millions of pairs of variables. I threw boatloads of data into an industrial-sized blender to find this correlation.

Who is going to stop me? p-value reporting doesn't require me to report how many calculations I had to go through in order to find a low p-value!
On average, you will find a correaltion as strong as 0.62 in 1% of random cases. Said differently, if you correlated 100 random variables Which I absolutely did.
with the same 15 degrees of freedom, Degrees of freedom is a measure of how many free components we are testing. In this case it is 15 because we have two variables measured over a period of 16 years. It's just the number of years minus ( the number of variables minus one ), which in this case simplifies to the number of years minus one.
you would randomly expect to find a correlation as strong as this one.

[ 0.18, 0.85 ] 95% correlation confidence interval (using the Fisher z-transformation)
The confidence interval is an estimate the range of the value of the correlation coefficient, using the correlation itself as an input. The values are meant to be the low and high end of the correlation coefficient with 95% confidence.

This one is a bit more complciated than the other calculations, but I include it because many people have been pushing for confidence intervals instead of p-value calculations (for example: NEJM. However, if you are dredging data, you can reliably find yourself in the 5%. That's my goal!


All values for the years included above: If I were being very sneaky, I could trim years from the beginning or end of the datasets to increase the correlation on some pairs of variables. I don't do that because there are already plenty of correlations in my database without monkeying with the years.

Still, sometimes one of the variables has more years of data available than the other. This page only shows the overlapping years. To see all the years, click on "See what else correlates with..." link above.
2001200220032004200520062007200820092010201120122013201420152016
The distance between the Sun and Earth (Planetary distance (AU))1.000071.000081.000111.000051.00011.00011.000061.00011.000081.000071.000111.000051.000091.00011.000061.00009
Total Receiving Yards by Steve Smith (Yards)1548721110601563116610021421982554139411747451065670799




Why this works

  1. Data dredging: I have 25,153 variables in my database. I compare all these variables against each other to find ones that randomly match up. That's 632,673,409 correlation calculations! This is called “data dredging.” Instead of starting with a hypothesis and testing it, I instead abused the data to see what correlations shake out. It’s a dangerous way to go about analysis, because any sufficiently large dataset will yield strong correlations completely at random.
  2. Lack of causal connection: There is probably Because these pages are automatically generated, it's possible that the two variables you are viewing are in fact causually related. I take steps to prevent the obvious ones from showing on the site (I don't let data about the weather in one city correlate with the weather in a neighboring city, for example), but sometimes they still pop up. If they are related, cool! You found a loophole.
    no direct connection between these variables, despite what the AI says above. This is exacerbated by the fact that I used "Years" as the base variable. Lots of things happen in a year that are not related to each other! Most studies would use something like "one person" in stead of "one year" to be the "thing" studied.
  3. Observations not independent: For many variables, sequential years are not independent of each other. If a population of people is continuously doing something every day, there is no reason to think they would suddenly change how they are doing that thing on January 1. A simple Personally I don't find any p-value calculation to be 'simple,' but you know what I mean.
    p-value calculation does not take this into account, so mathematically it appears less probable than it really is.
  4. Y-axis doesn't start at zero: I truncated the Y-axes of the graph above. I also used a line graph, which makes the visual connection stand out more than it deserves. Nothing against line graphs. They are great at telling a story when you have linear data! But visually it is deceptive because the only data is at the points on the graph, not the lines on the graph. In between each point, the data could have been doing anything. Like going for a random walk by itself!
    Mathematically what I showed is true, but it is intentionally misleading. Below is the same chart but with both Y-axes starting at zero.




Try it yourself

You can calculate the values on this page on your own! Try running the Python code to see the calculation results. Step 1: Download and install Python on your computer.

Step 2: Open a plaintext editor like Notepad and paste the code below into it.

Step 3: Save the file as "calculate_correlation.py" in a place you will remember, like your desktop. Copy the file location to your clipboard. On Windows, you can right-click the file and click "Properties," and then copy what comes after "Location:" As an example, on my computer the location is "C:\Users\tyler\Desktop"

Step 4: Open a command line window. For example, by pressing start and typing "cmd" and them pressing enter.

Step 5: Install the required modules by typing "pip install numpy", then pressing enter, then typing "pip install scipy", then pressing enter.

Step 6: Navigate to the location where you saved the Python file by using the "cd" command. For example, I would type "cd C:\Users\tyler\Desktop" and push enter.

Step 7: Run the Python script by typing "python calculate_correlation.py"

If you run into any issues, I suggest asking ChatGPT to walk you through installing Python and running the code below on your system. Try this question:

"Walk me through installing Python on my computer to run a script that uses scipy and numpy. Go step-by-step and ask me to confirm before moving on. Start by asking me questions about my operating system so that you know how to proceed. Assume I want the simplest installation with the latest version of Python and that I do not currently have any of the necessary elements installed. Remember to only give me one step per response and confirm I have done it before proceeding."


# These modules make it easier to perform the calculation
import numpy as np
from scipy import stats

# We'll define a function that we can call to return the correlation calculations
def calculate_correlation(array1, array2):

    # Calculate Pearson correlation coefficient and p-value
    correlation, p_value = stats.pearsonr(array1, array2)

    # Calculate R-squared as the square of the correlation coefficient
    r_squared = correlation**2

    return correlation, r_squared, p_value

# These are the arrays for the variables shown on this page, but you can modify them to be any two sets of numbers
array_1 = np.array([1.00007,1.00008,1.00011,1.00005,1.0001,1.0001,1.00006,1.0001,1.00008,1.00007,1.00011,1.00005,1.00009,1.0001,1.00006,1.00009,])
array_2 = np.array([154,872,1110,60,1563,1166,1002,1421,982,554,1394,1174,745,1065,670,799,])
array_1_name = "The distance between the Sun and Earth"
array_2_name = "Total Receiving Yards by Steve Smith"

# Perform the calculation
print(f"Calculating the correlation between {array_1_name} and {array_2_name}...")
correlation, r_squared, p_value = calculate_correlation(array_1, array_2)

# Print the results
print("Correlation Coefficient:", correlation)
print("R-squared:", r_squared)
print("P-value:", p_value)



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For the record, I am just one person. Tyler Vigen, he/him/his. I do have degrees, but they should not go after my name unless you want to annoy my wife. If that is your goal, then go ahead and cite me as "Tyler Vigen, A.A. A.A.S. B.A. J.D." Otherwise it is just "Tyler Vigen."

When spoken, my last name is pronounced "vegan," like I don't eat meat.

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Correlation ID: 2735 · Black Variable ID: 1936 · Red Variable ID: 237
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