Spurious correlation #1,088 · View random
A linear line chart with years as the X-axis and two variables on the Y-axis. The first variable is NCAA Men's Lacrosse Div I Championship final point differential and the second variable is Number of pirate attacks in Indonesia. The chart goes from 2008 to 2022, and the two variables track closely in value over that time.

A linear line chart with years as the X-axis and two variables on the Y-axis. The first variable is NCAA Men's Lacrosse Div I Championship final point differential and the second variable is Number of pirate attacks in Indonesia. The chart goes from 2008 to 2022, and the two variables track closely in value over that time.

Download png, svg

AI explanation

As the lacrosse point differentials increased, the players' precision in shooting improved. The more accurate shots somehow led to a surge in the production of lacrosse balls. These excess lacrosse balls were thought to have been mistaken for plunder by passing pirates in Indonesia, leading to an increase in attempted attacks. It seems the pirates were just trying to get their hands on some booty, but ended up with a different kind of ball game altogether!

^{Show image generation prompt} Model: dalle-3
Prompt: Generate a comic-book-style illustration with muted colors and a dotted halftone pattern from the 1960s. Depict a scene of prankster pirates gathering by the shore, wearing lacrosse uniforms and laughing as they practice shooting goals on a makeshift field. In the distance, a large ship sails away from the coast, its crew also dressed in lacrosse gear, carrying lacrosse sticks instead of swords. Meanwhile, on an island in Indonesia, local villagers are seen cheerfully going about their daily activities, with fewer instances of pirate attacks as the mischievous pirates are too occupied with their newfound love for lacrosse. Ensure the depiction is simple and does not include any words or speech bubbles for a true comic-book vibe. 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 situation described. You respond only with the scene descriptions provided and say nothing else.
User prompt: Here is a situation: An increase in prankster pirates switching from swashbuckling to scoring goals coincided with the decrease in NCAA Men's Lacrosse Div I Championship final point differential, resulting in fewer pirate attacks in Indonesia as the pirates were too busy perfecting their lacrosse skills to pillage and plunder.. Given that situation, which of the following image descriptions seems most appropriate? Pick the one that seems to be related to one of the variables at hand and the tone of the explanation. Please respond with only one of the following potential descriptions: Psychedelic Pop art A comic-book-style illustration with muted colors and a dotted halftone pattern from the 1960s Realistic Symbolism
ChatGPT: A comic-book-style illustration with muted colors and a dotted halftone pattern from the 1960s

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You describe simple visual scenes that depict the two variables stated and the explanation described. Do not reference graphs or charts; describe physical objects.
User prompt: Please describe a visual scene that depicts the following situation. Keep the description simple. An increase in prankster pirates switching from swashbuckling to scoring goals coincided with the decrease in NCAA Men's Lacrosse Div I Championship final point differential, resulting in fewer pirate attacks in Indonesia as the pirates were too busy perfecting their lacrosse skills to pillage and plunder.
ChatGPT: Imagine a group of prankster pirates gathering by the shore, wearing lacrosse uniforms and laughing as they practice shooting goals on a makeshift field. In the distance, a large ship sails away from the coast, its crew also dressed in lacrosse gear, carrying lacrosse sticks instead of swords. Meanwhile, on an island in Indonesia, local villagers are seen cheerfully going about their daily activities, with fewer instances of pirate attacks as the mischievous pirates are too occupied with their newfound love for lacrosse.

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 comic-book-style illustration with muted colors and a dotted halftone pattern from the 1960s ] and depicting this scene: Imagine a group of prankster pirates gathering by the shore, wearing lacrosse uniforms and laughing as they practice shooting goals on a makeshift field. In the distance, a large ship sails away from the coast, its crew also dressed in lacrosse gear, carrying lacrosse sticks instead of swords. Meanwhile, on an island in Indonesia, local villagers are seen cheerfully going about their daily activities, with fewer instances of pirate attacks as the mischievous pirates are too occupied with their newfound love for lacrosse. Keep the visual depiction simple. Do not include any words or speech bubbles.
ChatGPT: Generate a comic-book-style illustration with muted colors and a dotted halftone pattern from the 1960s. Depict a scene of prankster pirates gathering by the shore, wearing lacrosse uniforms and laughing as they practice shooting goals on a makeshift field. In the distance, a large ship sails away from the coast, its crew also dressed in lacrosse gear, carrying lacrosse sticks instead of swords. Meanwhile, on an island in Indonesia, local villagers are seen cheerfully going about their daily activities, with fewer instances of pirate attacks as the mischievous pirates are too occupied with their newfound love for lacrosse. Ensure the depiction is simple and does not include any words or speech bubbles for a true comic-book vibe.

*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.
^{Show prompt for explanation} 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 increases in NCAA Men's Lacrosse Div I Championship final point differential positively influenced Number of pirate attacks in Indonesia.

AI academic paper

(Because p < 0.01)

Scoring Goals and Stealing Ships: The Intriguing Relationship Between NCAA Men's Lacrosse Div I Championship Final Point Differential and Pirate Attacks in Indonesia

The Journal of Sports Piratology

Jan 2024

Reminder: This paper is AI-generated. Not real!

^{Show prompt used to generate this paper} 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 goofy academic researcher writing an academic paper. You follow the rules, but you throw out convention regularly to make jokes and funny asides.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 NCAA Men's Lacrosse Div I Championship final point differential and Number of pirate attacks in Indonesia. 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 name some movies that you watched that are tangentially related to the topic.

Here is the title and abstract of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
"Scoring Goals and Stealing Ships: The Intriguing Relationship Between NCAA Men's Lacrosse Div I Championship Final Point Differential and Pirate Attacks in Indonesia"

[[ABSTRACT]]
In this paper, we explore the curious and unlikely correlation between the final point differentials of the NCAA Men's Lacrosse Div I Championship and the occurrences of pirate attacks in Indonesia. Utilizing data from the NCAA and Statista, we conducted a comprehensive analysis covering the years 2008 to 2022. Surprisingly, our findings revealed a correlation coefficient of 0.6582522 and a p-value less than 0.01, indicating a statistically significant relationship. Through this investigation, we aim to shed light on this peculiar connection that may have otherwise gone unnoticed. The implications of this unexpected association extend beyond the realms of sports and maritime security, providing a playful reminder that in the world of data analysis, even the most improbable pairings may uncannily intersect. This research opens the door to further exploration and speculation, proving that in academia, sometimes truth is stranger than fiction.

-------

And here is the introduction section that led to this literature review:
[[INTRODUCTION]]
INTRODUCTION
The world of sports and statistical analysis often intersect in unexpected ways, yielding curious and sometimes perplexing relationships. One such intriguing connection has surfaced within the realm of NCAA Men's Lacrosse Div I Championship final point differentials and the occurrences of pirate attacks in Indonesia. While this may initially seem like an odd pairing, our investigation aims to unravel the enigmatic bond that exists between these seemingly disparate phenomena.
As researchers, we are constantly on the lookout for correlations that challenge conventional wisdom and provoke further inquiry. Thus, prompted by an offhand joke at a statistical conference, we delved into this unusual juxtaposition, fully aware that embarking on such an unconventional research pursuit might raise a few eyebrows, if not a whole fleet of them. Unpredictability, it seems, is an integral part of the academic adventure, akin to setting sail without a compass – or in our case, without a clear hypothesis.
The objective of this study is to uncover whether there is any substantive link between the outcome of lacrosse matches at the highest collegiate level and the frequency of pirate attacks off the coast of Indonesia. This investigation promises to shed light on the unexplored interplay between athletic achievement and nautical mischief, adding an element of whimsy to the usual rigors of scholarly inquiry. Additionally, it serves as a reminder that in the realm of statistical analysis, the sea of data can often conceal unexpected treasures, or in this case, treasures and pirates.
Armed with a sturdy statistical compass, a shipload of data, and a sense of academic adventure, we set sail on this uncharted research voyage, eager to uncover the hidden correlations and unearth any buried statistical doubloons. The prospect of uncovering meaningful connections between these disparate variables lends an air of excitement to the otherwise staid world of data analysis, proving that even the unlikeliest pairings can yield fruitful insights – or at least a good nautical pun or two. Through this research, we not only aim to advance our understanding of statistical relationships but also to infuse a sense of levity into the often-serious pursuit of scholarly inquiry. After all, in the words of Oscar Wilde, "Life is too important to be taken seriously," and we endeavor to apply this maxim to our scholarly endeavors.
With the anchor of skepticism firmly secured and the winds of curiosity at our backs, we set sail into uncharted statistical waters, fully prepared to navigate the unexpected currents of this research endeavor. Thar she blows – a promising correlation on the horizon! Or perhaps it's just a statistical mirage; either way, the voyage promises to be both enlightening and delightfully offbeat.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]

ChatGPT:
[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]

The relationship between seemingly unrelated phenomena has long captivated the attention of researchers across various disciplines. In the realm of statistical analysis, the pursuit of unexpected correlations often yields intriguing findings. As such, our investigation into the correlation between NCAA Men's Lacrosse Div I Championship final point differentials and pirate attacks in Indonesia builds upon the foundation of scholarly inquiry into seemingly disparate variables.

Smith (2015) delves into the statistical analysis of sports outcomes and their broader societal implications, laying the groundwork for understanding the impact of athletic events on unconventional areas of study. Similarly, Doe (2018) explores the intersection of statistical anomalies and historical occurrences, providing a framework for the examination of unexpected correlations that defy conventional wisdom. Jones (2020) contributes to this body of knowledge by investigating the influence of international events on local phenomena, enriching our understanding of how disparate factors may interconnect in surprising ways.

Expanding beyond academic studies, "The Statistical Secrets of Sports" by Statsman and Statson (2017) offers insights into the statistical underpinnings of athletic competitions, providing a lens through which to view the unanticipated relationships between sports and other domains. Furthermore, "The Art of Statistical Surprise" by Number Cruncher (2019) presents compelling cases of unlikely statistical associations, offering valuable insights into the nature of unexpected correlations.

In addition to scholarly works, fictional literature also offers thought-provoking narratives that inspire unconventional lines of inquiry. "The Mythical Method: Novel Approaches to Statistical Analysis" by Professor Fictional (2016) introduces imaginative storytelling as a means of unraveling statistical enigmas, encouraging researchers to embrace creative approaches to understanding data. Moreover, "The Unlikely Unions: A Tale of Intriguing Intersections" by Author Adventurous (2018) weaves fantastical tales of improbable connections, underscoring the value of exploring unconventional relationships in scholarly research.

Turning to the world of cinema, the film "Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl" (2003) provides a cinematic portrayal of maritime adventures, offering an entertaining backdrop for contemplating the unexpected convergence of seafaring exploits and statistical analysis. Likewise, "Moneyball" (2011) masterfully illustrates the transformative power of statistical insights in the realm of sports, serving as a poignant reminder of the potential hidden within statistical data, much like buried treasure awaiting discovery.

As we navigate the scholarly seas of research literature, the diverse perspectives provided by these works offer valuable insights and inspire us to approach our study with a spirit of intellectual curiosity and lighthearted exploration. The intersection of sports analytics and maritime occurrences may appear unconventional, yet it holds promise for uncovering unexpected connections that challenge traditional boundaries of statistical inquiry. With these diverse sources anchoring our scholarly odyssey, we set course to unravel the mysteries that lie at the confluence of collegiate athletics and nautical exploits.

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a goofy academic researcher writing an academic paper. You follow the rules, but you throw out convention regularly to make jokes and funny asides.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 NCAA Men's Lacrosse Div I Championship final point differential and Number of pirate attacks in Indonesia. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns. Sneak in some jokes and clever puns about science, research, statistics, and the variables.

Your research team collected data from all across the internet, but mostly just used information from NCAA and Statista . You used data from 2008 to 2022

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]]
"Scoring Goals and Stealing Ships: The Intriguing Relationship Between NCAA Men's Lacrosse Div I Championship Final Point Differential and Pirate Attacks in Indonesia"

[[ABSTRACT]]
In this paper, we explore the curious and unlikely correlation between the final point differentials of the NCAA Men's Lacrosse Div I Championship and the occurrences of pirate attacks in Indonesia. Utilizing data from the NCAA and Statista, we conducted a comprehensive analysis covering the years 2008 to 2022. Surprisingly, our findings revealed a correlation coefficient of 0.6582522 and a p-value less than 0.01, indicating a statistically significant relationship. Through this investigation, we aim to shed light on this peculiar connection that may have otherwise gone unnoticed. The implications of this unexpected association extend beyond the realms of sports and maritime security, providing a playful reminder that in the world of data analysis, even the most improbable pairings may uncannily intersect. This research opens the door to further exploration and speculation, proving that in academia, sometimes truth is stranger than fiction.

[[INTRODUCTION]]
INTRODUCTION
The world of sports and statistical analysis often intersect in unexpected ways, yielding curious and sometimes perplexing relationships. One such intriguing connection has surfaced within the realm of NCAA Men's Lacrosse Div I Championship final point differentials and the occurrences of pirate attacks in Indonesia. While this may initially seem like an odd pairing, our investigation aims to unravel the enigmatic bond that exists between these seemingly disparate phenomena.
As researchers, we are constantly on the lookout for correlations that challenge conventional wisdom and provoke further inquiry. Thus, prompted by an offhand joke at a statistical conference, we delved into this unusual juxtaposition, fully aware that embarking on such an unconventional research pursuit might raise a few eyebrows, if not a whole fleet of them. Unpredictability, it seems, is an integral part of the academic adventure, akin to setting sail without a compass – or in our case, without a clear hypothesis.
The objective of this study is to uncover whether there is any substantive link between the outcome of lacrosse matches at the highest collegiate level and the frequency of pirate attacks off the coast of Indonesia. This investigation promises to shed light on the unexplored interplay between athletic achievement and nautical mischief, adding an element of whimsy to the usual rigors of scholarly inquiry. Additionally, it serves as a reminder that in the realm of statistical analysis, the sea of data can often conceal unexpected treasures, or in this case, treasures and pirates.
Armed with a sturdy statistical compass, a shipload of data, and a sense of academic adventure, we set sail on this uncharted research voyage, eager to uncover the hidden correlations and unearth any buried statistical doubloons. The prospect of uncovering meaningful connections between these disparate variables lends an air of excitement to the otherwise staid world of data analysis, proving that even the unlikeliest pairings can yield fruitful insights – or at least a good nautical pun or two. Through this research, we not only aim to advance our understanding of statistical relationships but also to infuse a sense of levity into the often-serious pursuit of scholarly inquiry. After all, in the words of Oscar Wilde, "Life is too important to be taken seriously," and we endeavor to apply this maxim to our scholarly endeavors.
With the anchor of skepticism firmly secured and the winds of curiosity at our backs, we set sail into uncharted statistical waters, fully prepared to navigate the unexpected currents of this research endeavor. Thar she blows – a promising correlation on the horizon! Or perhaps it's just a statistical mirage; either way, the voyage promises to be both enlightening and delightfully offbeat.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[METHODOLOGY]]

ChatGPT:

[[METHODOLOGY]]

To navigate the uncharted waters of this peculiar research inquiry, our methodology involved a series of systematic, albeit whimsical, data collection and analysis techniques. We charted our course through the NCAA Men's Lacrosse Div I Championship final point differentials and the records of pirate attacks in Indonesia from 2008 to 2022, employing a series of statistical instruments that would make even the most intrepid academic sailors envious.

Data Collection:
Our intrepid crew scoured the digital seas, consulting the archives of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) for the historical point differentials of the men's lacrosse championship games. Simultaneously, we set our sights on a treasure trove of information provided by Statista, unraveling the tales of pirate attacks in the Indonesian waters. The data, much like a hidden treasure chest, was meticulously curated to ensure the authenticity and accuracy of our findings.

Analysis of Point Differentials:
To capture the ebbs and flows of athletic triumph, we employed rudimentary statistical measures to calculate the final point differentials of the NCAA Men's Lacrosse Div I Championship games. It was essential to ensure that our analysis did not become lost in the statistical Bermuda Triangle, so we diligently employed standard deviation and variance calculations to illuminate the nuances of victory and defeat on the lacrosse field.

Examination of Pirate Activity:
The maritime domain of pirate activity required a different set of tools to navigate. Just as sailors of yore relied on celestial navigation, we utilized chi-square tests and regression analyses to decode the frequency and intensity of pirate incursions in Indonesian waters. This analytical approach allowed us to steer through the waves of pirate activity, enabling us to plumb the depths of this unexpected variable.

Correlation Analysis:
With both sets of data securely stowed in our metaphorical cargo hold, we set sail for the unexplored territory of correlation analysis. Navigating between shoals of statistical insignificance and tempests of random variance, we computed correlation coefficients and p-values to ascertain the strength and significance of the relationship between NCAA men's lacrosse final point differentials and pirate attacks in Indonesia.

Statistical Software:
In our pursuit of hidden statistical treasures, we availed ourselves of the latest statistical software, sparing no expense to ensure that our calculations remained steadfast in the face of computational undertows. We rode the waves of technology, relying on the sturdy anchors of programs such as SPSS and R to capture and analyze the nuances of our disparate datasets.

Ethical Considerations:
In keeping with the scholarly compass that guides ethical research, we maintained the sanctity of our data sources and conducted our analyses with the utmost integrity. Our pursuit of knowledge was tempered with a respect for the privacy and integrity of the data, ensuring that our findings remain a testament to the scholarly ideals that guide us.

Ultimately, our methodology, while adventurous in spirit, was grounded in the sturdy rigging of scientific inquiry, enabling us to navigate the unpredictable currents of this intriguing research endeavor. As we hoisted the sails of statistical analysis, our journey through the choppy seas of NCAA lacrosse and pirate-infested waters was marked by both scholarly vigor and a healthy dose of academic whimsy.

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a goofy academic researcher writing an academic paper. You follow the rules, but you throw out convention regularly to make jokes and funny asides.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 NCAA Men's Lacrosse Div I Championship final point differential and Number of pirate attacks in Indonesia. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns. Sneak in some jokes and clever puns about science, research, statistics, and the variables.

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]]
"Scoring Goals and Stealing Ships: The Intriguing Relationship Between NCAA Men's Lacrosse Div I Championship Final Point Differential and Pirate Attacks in Indonesia"

[[ABSTRACT]]
In this paper, we explore the curious and unlikely correlation between the final point differentials of the NCAA Men's Lacrosse Div I Championship and the occurrences of pirate attacks in Indonesia. Utilizing data from the NCAA and Statista, we conducted a comprehensive analysis covering the years 2008 to 2022. Surprisingly, our findings revealed a correlation coefficient of 0.6582522 and a p-value less than 0.01, indicating a statistically significant relationship. Through this investigation, we aim to shed light on this peculiar connection that may have otherwise gone unnoticed. The implications of this unexpected association extend beyond the realms of sports and maritime security, providing a playful reminder that in the world of data analysis, even the most improbable pairings may uncannily intersect. This research opens the door to further exploration and speculation, proving that in academia, sometimes truth is stranger than fiction.

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]
The relationship between seemingly unrelated phenomena has long captivated the attention of researchers across various disciplines. In the realm of statistical analysis, the pursuit of unexpected correlations often yields intriguing findings. As such, our investigation into the correlation between NCAA Men's Lacrosse Div I Championship final point differentials and pirate attacks in Indonesia builds upon the foundation of scholarly inquiry into seemingly disparate variables.
Smith (2015) delves into the statistical analysis of sports outcomes and their broader societal implications, laying the groundwork for understanding the impact of athletic events on unconventional areas of study. Similarly, Doe (2018) explores the intersection of statistical anomalies and historical occurrences, providing a framework for the examination of unexpected correlations that defy conventional wisdom. Jones (2020) contributes to this body of knowledge by investigating the influence of international events on local phenomena, enriching our understanding of how disparate factors may interconnect in surprising ways.
Expanding beyond academic studies, "The Statistical Secrets of Sports" by Statsman and Statson (2017) offers insights into the statistical underpinnings of athletic competitions, providing a lens through which to view the unanticipated relationships between sports and other domains. Furthermore, "The Art of Statistical Surprise" by Number Cruncher (2019) presents compelling cases of unlikely statistical associations, offering valuable insights into the nature of unexpected correlations.
In addition to scholarly works, fictional literature also offers thought-provoking narratives that inspire unconventional lines of inquiry. "The Mythical Method: Novel Approaches to Statistical Analysis" by Professor Fictional (2016) introduces imaginative storytelling as a means of unraveling statistical enigmas, encouraging researchers to embrace creative approaches to understanding data. Moreover, "The Unlikely Unions: A Tale of Intriguing Intersections" by Author Adventurous (2018) weaves fantastical tales of improbable connections, underscoring the value of exploring unconventional relationships in scholarly research.
Turning to the world of cinema, the film "Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl" (2003) provides a cinematic portrayal of maritime adventures, offering an entertaining backdrop for contemplating the unexpected convergence of seafaring exploits and statistical analysis. Likewise, "Moneyball" (2011) masterfully illustrates the transformative power of statistical insights in the realm of sports, serving as a poignant reminder of the potential hidden within statistical data, much like buried treasure awaiting discovery.
As we navigate the scholarly seas of research literature, the diverse perspectives provided by these works offer valuable insights and inspire us to approach our study with a spirit of intellectual curiosity and lighthearted exploration. The intersection of sports analytics and maritime occurrences may appear unconventional, yet it holds promise for uncovering unexpected connections that challenge traditional boundaries of statistical inquiry. With these diverse sources anchoring our scholarly odyssey, we set course to unravel the mysteries that lie at the confluence of collegiate athletics and nautical exploits.

[[RESULTS]]
During the comprehensive data analysis, a striking correlation between the final point differentials of the NCAA Men's Lacrosse Div I Championship and the occurrences of pirate attacks in Indonesia emerged, much like a buried treasure finally unearthed. The correlation coefficient of 0.6582522 suggested a moderately strong relationship, indicating that as lacrosse final point differentials increased, so did the frequency of pirate attacks in Indonesia. This connection, while surprising, demonstrated a statistically significant association with a p-value less than 0.01, leaving us less room for doubt than a crew of sailors caught in a storm.
The scatterplot (Fig. 1) illustrates this unexpected relationship, resembling a map of uncharted statistical waters where the boundaries of sports and maritime activity intersect in a serendipitous display of correlation. The data points align like stars guiding a ship, revealing a clear trend that cannot be dismissed as mere statistical noise. The r-squared value of 0.4332960 further confirmed that 43.33% of the variability in pirate attacks in Indonesia can be explained by the final point differentials of the NCAA Men's Lacrosse Div I Championship, a result as unlikely as finding a parrot that can recite p-values.
In summary, the findings of this research unveil a correlation that defies conventional expectations, akin to discovering a pirate's treasure map hidden within the annals of collegiate sports statistics. This improbable relationship offers a whimsical twist within the domain of data analysis, reminding researchers that beneath the surface of seemingly unrelated variables, a hidden trove of statistical treasures may await discovery. This delightful discovery serves as a playful reminder that in the vast sea of research, even the most outlandish hypotheses may yield unexpected – and occasionally amusing – revelations.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[DISCUSSION]]

ChatGPT:

[[DISCUSSION]]

The conspicuous correlation identified in our study between the final point differentials of the NCAA Men's Lacrosse Div I Championship and the occurrences of pirate attacks in Indonesia is a discovery that can be likened to stumbling upon a chest of statistical gold in the fog-laden realm of research. Our findings not only align with the prior research that has delved into the enigmatic interconnections between unrelated variables but also elevate the discourse to a sea-worthy level of intrigue.

Harking back to the literature review, the scholarly works by Smith (2015) and Doe (2018), though intrepidly exploring the statistical nuances of sports outcomes and historical occurrences, could scarcely have foreseen the unexpected convergence of lacrosse finals and maritime exploits that our research has uncovered. Furthermore, the fictional depictions in "The Mythical Method" (2016) and "The Unlikely Unions" (2018) offer imaginative narratives of improbable connections, presciently presaging the fanciful union we have now validated through empirical analysis.

The statistical sailing adventure embarked upon by Statsman and Statson (2017) and the statistical secrets divulged by Number Cruncher (2019) indeed set the stage for our own seafaring statistical odyssey, guiding us through uncharted waters, where we uncovered a lustrous statistical relationship keener than the sharpest of cutlasses.

As for the unexpected twist in "Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl" (2003) and the transformative statistical insights in "Moneyball" (2011), they stand as testament to the entertainment value and hidden depth within the realms of sports and statistical analysis. Our research, in a similar vein, delves into uncharted waters, bridging the lacrosse-pirate nexus with a playful spirit and an eye for the statistically peculiar.

The substantial correlation coefficient of 0.6582522 that emerged from our analysis illustrates a relationship that defies simple explanation, much like the enigmatic allure of buried treasures awaiting discovery. The scatterplot, reminiscent of the cartographic charts used in seafaring expeditions, visually encapsulates the unanticipated convergence of lacrosse accolades and piratical endeavors, painting a picture as colorful as a parrot's plumage.

In conclusion, our findings not only reaffirm the fortuity that underpins the peculiar association between NCAA Men's Lacrosse and pirate attacks in Indonesia but also serve as a testament to the captivating and often whimsical discoveries that await those bold enough to venture into the unpredictable waters of unconventional correlations. This revelatory investigation in this peculiar pairing not only solidifies its place in the annals of statistical inquiry but also serves as a jovial reminder that statistical analysis, much like a pirate's life, is as much about unearthing unexpected treasures as it is about navigating uncharted seas.

Model: gpt-3.5-turbo-1106
System prompt: You are a goofy academic researcher writing an academic paper. You follow the rules, but you throw out convention regularly to make jokes and funny asides.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 NCAA Men's Lacrosse Div I Championship final point differential and Number of pirate attacks in Indonesia. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns. Sneak in some jokes and clever puns about science, research, statistics, and the variables.

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]]
"Scoring Goals and Stealing Ships: The Intriguing Relationship Between NCAA Men's Lacrosse Div I Championship Final Point Differential and Pirate Attacks in Indonesia"

[[ABSTRACT]]
In this paper, we explore the curious and unlikely correlation between the final point differentials of the NCAA Men's Lacrosse Div I Championship and the occurrences of pirate attacks in Indonesia. Utilizing data from the NCAA and Statista, we conducted a comprehensive analysis covering the years 2008 to 2022. Surprisingly, our findings revealed a correlation coefficient of 0.6582522 and a p-value less than 0.01, indicating a statistically significant relationship. Through this investigation, we aim to shed light on this peculiar connection that may have otherwise gone unnoticed. The implications of this unexpected association extend beyond the realms of sports and maritime security, providing a playful reminder that in the world of data analysis, even the most improbable pairings may uncannily intersect. This research opens the door to further exploration and speculation, proving that in academia, sometimes truth is stranger than fiction.

[[INTRDUCTION]]
INTRODUCTION
The world of sports and statistical analysis often intersect in unexpected ways, yielding curious and sometimes perplexing relationships. One such intriguing connection has surfaced within the realm of NCAA Men's Lacrosse Div I Championship final point differentials and the occurrences of pirate attacks in Indonesia. While this may initially seem like an odd pairing, our investigation aims to unravel the enigmatic bond that exists between these seemingly disparate phenomena.
As researchers, we are constantly on the lookout for correlations that challenge conventional wisdom and provoke further inquiry. Thus, prompted by an offhand joke at a statistical conference, we delved into this unusual juxtaposition, fully aware that embarking on such an unconventional research pursuit might raise a few eyebrows, if not a whole fleet of them. Unpredictability, it seems, is an integral part of the academic adventure, akin to setting sail without a compass – or in our case, without a clear hypothesis.
The objective of this study is to uncover whether there is any substantive link between the outcome of lacrosse matches at the highest collegiate level and the frequency of pirate attacks off the coast of Indonesia. This investigation promises to shed light on the unexplored interplay between athletic achievement and nautical mischief, adding an element of whimsy to the usual rigors of scholarly inquiry. Additionally, it serves as a reminder that in the realm of statistical analysis, the sea of data can often conceal unexpected treasures, or in this case, treasures and pirates.
Armed with a sturdy statistical compass, a shipload of data, and a sense of academic adventure, we set sail on this uncharted research voyage, eager to uncover the hidden correlations and unearth any buried statistical doubloons. The prospect of uncovering meaningful connections between these disparate variables lends an air of excitement to the otherwise staid world of data analysis, proving that even the unlikeliest pairings can yield fruitful insights – or at least a good nautical pun or two. Through this research, we not only aim to advance our understanding of statistical relationships but also to infuse a sense of levity into the often-serious pursuit of scholarly inquiry. After all, in the words of Oscar Wilde, "Life is too important to be taken seriously," and we endeavor to apply this maxim to our scholarly endeavors.
With the anchor of skepticism firmly secured and the winds of curiosity at our backs, we set sail into uncharted statistical waters, fully prepared to navigate the unexpected currents of this research endeavor. Thar she blows – a promising correlation on the horizon! Or perhaps it's just a statistical mirage; either way, the voyage promises to be both enlightening and delightfully offbeat.

[[RESULTS]]
During the comprehensive data analysis, a striking correlation between the final point differentials of the NCAA Men's Lacrosse Div I Championship and the occurrences of pirate attacks in Indonesia emerged, much like a buried treasure finally unearthed. The correlation coefficient of 0.6582522 suggested a moderately strong relationship, indicating that as lacrosse final point differentials increased, so did the frequency of pirate attacks in Indonesia. This connection, while surprising, demonstrated a statistically significant association with a p-value less than 0.01, leaving us less room for doubt than a crew of sailors caught in a storm.
The scatterplot (Fig. 1) illustrates this unexpected relationship, resembling a map of uncharted statistical waters where the boundaries of sports and maritime activity intersect in a serendipitous display of correlation. The data points align like stars guiding a ship, revealing a clear trend that cannot be dismissed as mere statistical noise. The r-squared value of 0.4332960 further confirmed that 43.33% of the variability in pirate attacks in Indonesia can be explained by the final point differentials of the NCAA Men's Lacrosse Div I Championship, a result as unlikely as finding a parrot that can recite p-values.
In summary, the findings of this research unveil a correlation that defies conventional expectations, akin to discovering a pirate's treasure map hidden within the annals of collegiate sports statistics. This improbable relationship offers a whimsical twist within the domain of data analysis, reminding researchers that beneath the surface of seemingly unrelated variables, a hidden trove of statistical treasures may await discovery. This delightful discovery serves as a playful reminder that in the vast sea of research, even the most outlandish hypotheses may yield unexpected – and occasionally amusing – revelations.

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Your response should start like this:

[[CONCLUSION]]

ChatGPT:

[[CONCLUSION]]

In conclusion, our research has illuminated the hitherto unseen connection between NCAA Men's Lacrosse Div I Championship final point differentials and the frequency of pirate attacks in Indonesia. The statistically significant correlation coefficient and p-value reinforce the unanticipated nature of this relationship, prompting a reevaluation of the factors influencing piracy beyond the high seas. It appears that as lacrosse teams score more goals, pirates are emboldened to plunder more ships, proving that statistical correlations can be as slippery as an eel in the bilge.

This revelation challenges traditional viewpoints and emphasizes the need for researchers to navigate the uncharted waters of data analysis with an open mind, much like sailors braving the unpredictable currents of the ocean. The unexpected convergence of these variables serves as a testament to the multifaceted nature of statistical relationships, urging scholars to plunder the bounty of knowledge hidden within the depths of complex data sets.

While this study sheds light on the unexplored parallels between athletic achievement and maritime activities, it also serves as a lighthearted reminder of the whimsical surprises that can arise from rigorous scientific inquiry. The correlation uncovered in this study stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of academic adventure, proving that in the boundless expanse of research, even the most unexpected pairings can unfurl their sails and chart new courses of discovery.

As such, this research essentially hoists the Jolly Roger flag of unconventional statistical investigation, boldly asserting that in the quest for knowledge, even the most peculiar associations can steer the course toward enlightening insights. Therefore, we assert that no further research is needed in this area, as we have undoubtedly unearthed the buried treasure of statistical oddities within this unlikely pairing. It's time to dock our vessel, secure the scientific treasure we've discovered, and bid adieu to this peculiar statistical expedition.

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 Scoring Goals and Stealing Ships: The Intriguing Relationship Between NCAA Men's Lacrosse Div I Championship Final Point Differential and Pirate Attacks in Indonesia. Respond only with the name of a fictional academic journal.

ChatGPT:

The Journal of Sports Piratology

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 Scoring Goals and Stealing Ships: The Intriguing Relationship Between NCAA Men's Lacrosse Div I Championship Final Point Differential and Pirate Attacks in Indonesia. Respond only with the name of a fictional organization.

ChatGPT:

The Association for Quirky Sports and Global Phenomena Research

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 Scoring Goals and Stealing Ships: The Intriguing Relationship Between NCAA Men's Lacrosse Div I Championship Final Point Differential and Pirate Attacks in Indonesia with an abstract of In this paper, we explore the curious and unlikely correlation between the final point differentials of the NCAA Men's Lacrosse Div I Championship and the occurrences of pirate attacks in Indonesia. Utilizing data from the NCAA and Statista, we conducted a comprehensive analysis covering the years 2008 to 2022. Surprisingly, our findings revealed a correlation coefficient of 0.6582522 and a p-value less than 0.01, indicating a statistically significant relationship. Through this investigation, we aim to shed light on this peculiar connection that may have otherwise gone unnoticed. The implications of this unexpected association extend beyond the realms of sports and maritime security, providing a playful reminder that in the world of data analysis, even the most improbable pairings may uncannily intersect. This research opens the door to further exploration and speculation, proving that in academia, sometimes truth is stranger than fiction.

ChatGPT:

NCAA Men's Lacrosse Div I Championship, final point differentials, pirate attacks, Indonesia, correlation coefficient, statistical significance, maritime security, data analysis, unexpected association, sports and maritime security, research implications

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

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Data details

NCAA Men's Lacrosse Div I Championship final point differential
Source: NCAA
See what else correlates with NCAA Men's Lacrosse Div I Championship final point differential

Number of pirate attacks in Indonesia
Source: Statista
See what else correlates with Number of pirate attacks in Indonesia

Correlation r = 0.6582522 (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 = 0.4332960 (Coefficient of determination)
This means 43.3% of the change in the one variable (i.e., Number of pirate attacks in Indonesia) is predictable based on the change in the other (i.e., NCAA Men's Lacrosse Div I Championship final point differential) over the 15 years from 2008 through 2022.

p < 0.01, which is statistically significant(Null hypothesis significance test)
The p-value is 0.0076.^Show 0.0076315172593654865000000000
The p-value is a measure of how probable it is that we would randomly find a result this extreme.^Note 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 0.66 in 0.76% of random cases. Said differently, if you correlated 131 random variables^Note Which I absolutely did.
with the same 14 degrees of freedom, ^Note Degrees of freedom is a measure of how many free components we are testing. In this case it is 14 because we have two variables measured over a period of 15 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.

[ 0.22, 0.88 ] 95% correlation confidence interval (using the Fisher z-transformation)
^{Read more about the confidence interval} 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: ^Note 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.

	2008	2009	2010	2011	2012	2013	2014	2015	2016	2017	2018	2019	2020	2021	2022
NCAA Men's Lacrosse Div I Championship final point differential (Points)	3	1	1	2	6	6	2	5	1	3	2	4	0	1	2
Number of pirate attacks in Indonesia (Incidents)	28	15	40	46	81	106	100	108	49	43	36	25	26	9	10

Why this works

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.
Lack of causal connection: There is probably^Note 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.
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^Note 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.

Try it yourself

You can calculate the values on this page on your own! Try running the Python code to see the calculation results. ^{Show the steps to do this.} 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([3,1,1,2,6,6,2,5,1,3,2,4,0,1,2,])
array_2 = np.array([28,15,40,46,81,106,100,108,49,43,36,25,26,9,10,])
array_1_name = "NCAA Men's Lacrosse Div I Championship final point differential"
array_2_name = "Number of pirate attacks in Indonesia"

# 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)

Reuseable content

You may re-use the images on this page for any purpose, even commercial purposes, without asking for permission. The only requirement is that you attribute Tyler Vigen. ^Note Attribution can take many different forms. If you leave the "tylervigen.com" link in the image, that satisfies it just fine. If you remove it and move it to a footnote, that's fine too. You can also just write "Charts courtesy of Tyler Vigen" at the bottom of an article.

You do not need to attribute "the spurious correlations website," and you don't even need to link here if you don't want to. I don't gain anything from pageviews. There are no ads on this site, there is nothing for sale, and I am not for hire.

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.

Full license details.
For more on re-use permissions, or to get a signed release form, see tylervigen.com/permission.

Download images for these variables:

High resolution line chart ^Note The image linked here is a Scalable Vector Graphic (SVG). It is the highest resolution that is possible to achieve. It scales up beyond the size of the observable universe without pixelating. You do not need to email me asking if I have a higher resolution image. I do not. The physical limitations of our universe prevent me from providing you with an image that is any higher resolution than this one.

If you insert it into a PowerPoint presentation (a tool well-known for managing things that are the scale of the universe), you can right-click > "Ungroup" or "Create Shape" and then edit the lines and text directly. You can also change the colors this way.

Alternatively you can use a tool like Inkscape.
High resolution line chart, optimized for mobile
Alternative high resolution line chart
Scatterplot
Portable line chart (png)
Portable line chart (png), optimized for mobile
Line chart for only NCAA Men's Lacrosse Div I Championship final point differential
Line chart for only Number of pirate attacks in Indonesia
The spurious research paper: Scoring Goals and Stealing Ships: The Intriguing Relationship Between NCAA Men's Lacrosse Div I Championship Final Point Differential and Pirate Attacks in Indonesia

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Correlation ID: 1088 · Black Variable ID: 129 · Red Variable ID: 69


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