Spurious correlation #2,663 · View random
A linear line chart with years as the X-axis and two variables on the Y-axis. The first variable is Bachelor's degrees awarded in Mathematics and statistics and the second variable is Google searches for 'tummy ache'. The chart goes from 2012 to 2021, 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 Bachelor's degrees awarded in Mathematics and statistics and the second variable is Google searches for 'tummy ache'. The chart goes from 2012 to 2021, and the two variables track closely in value over that time.

Download png, svg

AI explanation

As the number of Math and Statistics graduates rose, so did the frequency of game nights centered around competitive board games like Monopoly and Parcheesi. The intense focus on strategic thinking and number crunching during these game nights led to heightened stress levels and ultimately, increased tummy aches from all the tension and high-stakes decision-making. Who knew that a love for numbers could lead to some serious gastrointestinal arithmetic!

^{Show image generation prompt} Model: dalle-3
Prompt: Prompt: Generate a cute 2D animation depicting a cozy living room scene. In the scene, a happy person with a freshly awarded Bachelor's degree in Mathematics and statistics is sitting at a desk with a stack of books, analyzing data on tummy aches. The person is typing "tummy ache remedies" into Google on the computer, surrounded by charming charts and statistical calculations. The overall visual should be simple and adorable. 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: Bachelor's degrees awarded in Mathematics and statistics and Google searches for 'tummy ache'. 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: Macabre Cute 2D animation Cute 2D animation Cutsy graphics Brutalism
ChatGPT: Cute 2D animation

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 Bachelor's degrees awarded in Mathematics and statistics and Google searches for 'tummy ache', in the following situation: Because as more people earn degrees in Mathematics and statistics, they become more adept at calculating the statistical probability of encountering tummy aches, leading to increased awareness and subsequent searches for remedies.. Keep the description simple.
ChatGPT: In a cozy living room, a person with a freshly awarded Bachelor's degree in Mathematics and statistics sits at a desk with a stack of books, analyzing data on tummy aches. On the computer, the person is typing "tummy ache remedies" into Google, surrounded by charts and statistical calculations.

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: [ Cute 2D animation ] and depicting this scene: In a cozy living room, a person with a freshly awarded Bachelor's degree in Mathematics and statistics sits at a desk with a stack of books, analyzing data on tummy aches. On the computer, the person is typing "tummy ache remedies" into Google, surrounded by charts and statistical calculations. Keep the visual depiction simple. Do not include any words or speech bubbles.
ChatGPT: Prompt: Generate a cute 2D animation depicting a cozy living room scene. In the scene, a happy person with a freshly awarded Bachelor's degree in Mathematics and statistics is sitting at a desk with a stack of books, analyzing data on tummy aches. The person is typing "tummy ache remedies" into Google on the computer, surrounded by charming charts and statistical calculations. The overall visual should be simple and adorable.

*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 an increase in Bachelor's degrees awarded in Mathematics and statistics caused tummy ache (Google searches for 'tummy ache') to increase. Make it feel plausible.

AI academic paper

(Because p < 0.01)

Crunching the Numbers: The Correlation Between Bachelor's Degrees in Mathematics and Statistics and Google Searches for 'Tummy Ache'

The Journal of Comedic Quantitative Research

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 Bachelor's degrees awarded in Mathematics and statistics and Google searches for 'tummy ache'. 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 devolve ever further, and mention something completely ridiculous, like you conducted literature review by reading CVS receipts.

Here is the title and abstract of the paper:
[[TITLE]]
"Crunching the Numbers: The Correlation Between Bachelor's Degrees in Mathematics and Statistics and Google Searches for 'Tummy Ache'"

[[ABSTRACT]]
In this study, we sought to digest the curious relationship between the confounding realms of academic achievement in mathematics and statistics, and the mundane yet prevalent human experience of stomach discomfort, as indicated by Google search trends for the phrase 'tummy ache'. Utilizing data from the National Center for Education Statistics and Google Trends, our analysis revealed a remarkably high correlation coefficient of 0.9916277 and a statistically significant p-value of less than 0.01 for the time period spanning 2012 to 2021. Our findings suggest a strong association between the awarding of Bachelor's degrees in mathematics and statistics and increased queries relating to digestive distress. Though this investigation raises more questions than it answers, it certainly bears notable implications for our understanding of the interconnectedness between intellectual pursuits and common human afflictions. Ultimately, our research serves as a reminder that even in the inscrutable landscape of statistical analysis, there may still be room for tongue-in-cheek correlations.

-------

And here is the introduction section that led to this literature review:
[[INTRODUCTION]]
The pursuit of understanding the intricate patterns of human behavior has long captivated the minds of researchers and scholars across various disciplines. In this study, we venture into the whimsical territory of investigating the enigmatic connection between the academic attainment of Bachelor's degrees in mathematics and statistics, and the seemingly unrelated, yet omnipresent, phenomenon of stomach discomfort, as manifested through Google searches for the colloquial term 'tummy ache'.
While the idea of delving into this peculiar nexus may initially evoke a chuckle or two, the basis of our inquiry underpins a genuine interest in uncovering the whimsical dance of human inquiry and physical malaise. As our investigation unfolds, readers are encouraged to digest the interconnectedness between the cerebral realm of mathematical aptitude and the visceral experience of gastrointestinal unease, and perhaps, bear with us through the occasional pun-infused sidestep.
The juxtaposition of lofty academic pursuits with the prosaic nature of stomach-related searches on the internet may indeed seem like a case of comparing apples and oranges – or in this case, perhaps apples and antacids. Nevertheless, we embarked on this expedition armed with statistical rigor and a sense of humor, recognizing that even in the most serious of academic endeavors, there may yet be room for a lighthearted smirk.
As we embark on this scholarly journey, we aim not only to unravel the statistical patterns that underpin the relationship between these seemingly disparate phenomena but also to revel in the delightful absurdity that emerges from such analyses. So, dear reader, fasten your seatbelts and prepare to savor some data-driven amusement as we unravel the mysterious correlation between mathematical prowess and the humble tummy ache.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]

ChatGPT:
[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]

The correlation between academic achievement and peculiar societal phenomena has been a subject of scholarly interest for many years. In "Smith et al.'s Analysis of Educational Attainment and Its Societal Implications," the authors explore the complex interplay between educational pursuits and everyday experiences. Similarly, Doe and Jones, in "The Nexus of Academic Excellence and Human Quirks," delve into the unexpected connections that can arise between intellectual endeavors and seemingly mundane occurrences.

Turning to the realm of literature, several notable works have touched upon the themes of mathematics, human physiology, and the curious intersection of the two. "Mathematical Musings on the Human Body" by Dr. Calculus presents an intriguing exploration of the mathematical principles underlying bodily functions, offering a unique perspective on the potential links between math and bodily sensations. In a similar vein, "Statistical Stomach: A Novel Approach to Digestive Discomfort" by Data Dickens offers a fictional narrative that weaves together statistical analyses and gastrointestinal distress in a manner that is as entertaining as it is thought-provoking.

Venturing further into the obscure corners of research, our team stumbled upon an unlikely treasure trove of insights in the form of everyday items – specifically, CVS receipts. While not a conventional source of scholarly information, these paper relics of consumer transactions yielded unexpected revelations about the purchasing patterns of antacids and their potential correlation with local trends in mathematics and statistics education. Although a departure from traditional academic sources, these mundane slips of paper proved to be an unexpectedly rich source of inspiration for our investigation.

As we leap into this uncharted academic territory, it becomes apparent that the pursuit of knowledge often leads us down unexpected and amusing paths. The landscape of scholarly inquiry, it seems, is not without its fair share of quirky diversions.

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 Bachelor's degrees awarded in Mathematics and statistics and Google searches for 'tummy ache'. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns.

Your research team collected data from all across the internet, but mostly just used information from National Center for Education Statistics and Google Trends . You used data from 2012 to 2021

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]]
"Crunching the Numbers: The Correlation Between Bachelor's Degrees in Mathematics and Statistics and Google Searches for 'Tummy Ache'"

[[ABSTRACT]]
In this study, we sought to digest the curious relationship between the confounding realms of academic achievement in mathematics and statistics, and the mundane yet prevalent human experience of stomach discomfort, as indicated by Google search trends for the phrase 'tummy ache'. Utilizing data from the National Center for Education Statistics and Google Trends, our analysis revealed a remarkably high correlation coefficient of 0.9916277 and a statistically significant p-value of less than 0.01 for the time period spanning 2012 to 2021. Our findings suggest a strong association between the awarding of Bachelor's degrees in mathematics and statistics and increased queries relating to digestive distress. Though this investigation raises more questions than it answers, it certainly bears notable implications for our understanding of the interconnectedness between intellectual pursuits and common human afflictions. Ultimately, our research serves as a reminder that even in the inscrutable landscape of statistical analysis, there may still be room for tongue-in-cheek correlations.

[[INTRODUCTION]]
The pursuit of understanding the intricate patterns of human behavior has long captivated the minds of researchers and scholars across various disciplines. In this study, we venture into the whimsical territory of investigating the enigmatic connection between the academic attainment of Bachelor's degrees in mathematics and statistics, and the seemingly unrelated, yet omnipresent, phenomenon of stomach discomfort, as manifested through Google searches for the colloquial term 'tummy ache'.
While the idea of delving into this peculiar nexus may initially evoke a chuckle or two, the basis of our inquiry underpins a genuine interest in uncovering the whimsical dance of human inquiry and physical malaise. As our investigation unfolds, readers are encouraged to digest the interconnectedness between the cerebral realm of mathematical aptitude and the visceral experience of gastrointestinal unease, and perhaps, bear with us through the occasional pun-infused sidestep.
The juxtaposition of lofty academic pursuits with the prosaic nature of stomach-related searches on the internet may indeed seem like a case of comparing apples and oranges – or in this case, perhaps apples and antacids. Nevertheless, we embarked on this expedition armed with statistical rigor and a sense of humor, recognizing that even in the most serious of academic endeavors, there may yet be room for a lighthearted smirk.
As we embark on this scholarly journey, we aim not only to unravel the statistical patterns that underpin the relationship between these seemingly disparate phenomena but also to revel in the delightful absurdity that emerges from such analyses. So, dear reader, fasten your seatbelts and prepare to savor some data-driven amusement as we unravel the mysterious correlation between mathematical prowess and the humble tummy ache.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[METHODOLOGY]]

ChatGPT:

[[METHODOLOGY]]

To unravel the tantalizing enigma of the correlation between Bachelor's degrees in Mathematics and Statistics and Google searches for 'tummy ache', we embarked on a methodological journey infused with scholarly rigor and a dash of whimsy. Our approach can be likened to a complex, yet delicious recipe, blending together data collection, statistical analysis, and a pinch of light-heartedness for good measure.

Data Collection:
Our research team cast a wide net across the vast expanse of the internet, voyaging through the digital seas to capture pertinent data for our investigation. The primary sources of data were the National Center for Education Statistics, serving as the foundation for academic achievement in Mathematics and Statistics, and the inimitable Google Trends, providing a window into the realm of stomach-related searches. We focused on the period from 2012 to 2021, encapsulating a broad spectrum of academic and digital inquiries, akin to a gastronomic feast for the inquisitive mind.

The Academic and Gastrointestinal Cornucopia:
The focal point of our analysis was the number of Bachelor's degrees awarded in Mathematics and Statistics, a testament to the intellectual prowess of students venturing into the intricate maze of numbers and algorithms. Concurrently, we gathered data on Google searches for the colloquial term 'tummy ache', serving as the window into the tumultuous world of gastrointestinal unease. The juxtaposition of these seemingly disparate datasets was akin to pairing a savory main course with a zesty side dish, drawing intriguing parallels between academic achievement and everyday bodily experiences.

Statistical Analysis:
Enveloped in the warm embrace of statistical software, we embarked on a quest to unravel the potential relationship between academic accolades in Mathematics and Statistics and the prevalence of 'tummy ache' searches. Utilizing advanced techniques such as correlation analysis and time series modeling, we deciphered the rhythmic dance between these two seemingly incongruent domains, akin to composing a symphony of data.

Validation and Caveats:
Throughout our endeavor, we remained keenly attuned to the nuances and potential confounding factors that may influence our findings. While we established a robust statistical framework, we also acknowledge the possibility of unforeseen variables and the delightful complexity of human behavior. Our journey is not without its twists and turns, akin to a roller coaster ride through the landscape of data science and gastrointestinal queries.

In summary, our methodology for exploring the connection between Bachelor's degrees in Mathematics and Statistics and Google searches for 'tummy ache' encompassed a harmonious blend of data collection, statistical analysis, and an offbeat perspective, akin to a waltz of academic inquiry and whimsical musings.

This is a work of academic research, but that doesn't mean we can't sprinkle a little fun into the mix, right? After all, in the world of academia, it's not just about crunching numbers – it's also about savoring the quirky correlations that emerge along the way. Cheers to statistical shenanigans and gastrointestinal intrigue!

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 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 Bachelor's degrees awarded in Mathematics and statistics and Google searches for 'tummy ache'. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns.

Your research team collected data from all across the internet, but mostly just used information from National Center for Education Statistics and Google Trends .

For the time period 2012 to 2021, you found a correlation 0.9916277, r-squared of 0.9833255, 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]]
"Crunching the Numbers: The Correlation Between Bachelor's Degrees in Mathematics and Statistics and Google Searches for 'Tummy Ache'"

[[ABSTRACT]]
In this study, we sought to digest the curious relationship between the confounding realms of academic achievement in mathematics and statistics, and the mundane yet prevalent human experience of stomach discomfort, as indicated by Google search trends for the phrase 'tummy ache'. Utilizing data from the National Center for Education Statistics and Google Trends, our analysis revealed a remarkably high correlation coefficient of 0.9916277 and a statistically significant p-value of less than 0.01 for the time period spanning 2012 to 2021. Our findings suggest a strong association between the awarding of Bachelor's degrees in mathematics and statistics and increased queries relating to digestive distress. Though this investigation raises more questions than it answers, it certainly bears notable implications for our understanding of the interconnectedness between intellectual pursuits and common human afflictions. Ultimately, our research serves as a reminder that even in the inscrutable landscape of statistical analysis, there may still be room for tongue-in-cheek correlations.

-------

And here is the methodology section that led to this result:
[[METHODOLOGY]]
The pursuit of understanding the intricate patterns of human behavior has long captivated the minds of researchers and scholars across various disciplines. In this study, we venture into the whimsical territory of investigating the enigmatic connection between the academic attainment of Bachelor's degrees in mathematics and statistics, and the seemingly unrelated, yet omnipresent, phenomenon of stomach discomfort, as manifested through Google searches for the colloquial term 'tummy ache'.
While the idea of delving into this peculiar nexus may initially evoke a chuckle or two, the basis of our inquiry underpins a genuine interest in uncovering the whimsical dance of human inquiry and physical malaise. As our investigation unfolds, readers are encouraged to digest the interconnectedness between the cerebral realm of mathematical aptitude and the visceral experience of gastrointestinal unease, and perhaps, bear with us through the occasional pun-infused sidestep.
The juxtaposition of lofty academic pursuits with the prosaic nature of stomach-related searches on the internet may indeed seem like a case of comparing apples and oranges – or in this case, perhaps apples and antacids. Nevertheless, we embarked on this expedition armed with statistical rigor and a sense of humor, recognizing that even in the most serious of academic endeavors, there may yet be room for a lighthearted smirk.
As we embark on this scholarly journey, we aim not only to unravel the statistical patterns that underpin the relationship between these seemingly disparate phenomena but also to revel in the delightful absurdity that emerges from such analyses. So, dear reader, fasten your seatbelts and prepare to savor some data-driven amusement as we unravel the mysterious correlation between mathematical prowess and the humble tummy ache.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[RESULTS]]

ChatGPT:

[[RESULTS]]

Our data analysis revealed a striking correlation coefficient of 0.9916277 between the number of Bachelor's degrees awarded in mathematics and statistics and Google searches for the term 'tummy ache' over the period of 2012 to 2021. This correlation implies a remarkably strong relationship between the academic achievements in the field of mathematical and statistical prowess and the online queries related to abdominal discomfort.

The coefficient of determination (r-squared) of 0.9833255 further emphasizes the robustness of this association, indicating that approximately 98.33% of the variation in 'tummy ache' search volumes can be explained by the number of Bachelor's degrees awarded in mathematics and statistics. Put simply, it seems that the search for understanding gastrointestinal distress is closely tied to the pursuit and attainment of advanced mathematical knowledge—perhaps a testament to the gut-wrenching nature of certain mathematical problems.

Additionally, the statistical analysis yielded a p-value of less than 0.01, signifying that the observed correlation is highly unlikely to have occurred by chance alone. In other words, the likelihood of the strong relationship between mathematics and statistics degrees and 'tummy ache' searches being a fluke is as slim as winning the lottery while simultaneously sneezing and doing a pirouette—virtually impossible.

To visually encapsulate these findings, we present in Figure 1 a scatterplot demonstrating the remarkable correlation between the number of Bachelor's degrees awarded in mathematics and statistics and the frequency of Google searches for 'tummy ache'. The data points are so neatly aligned that one might even mistake them for a perfectly ordered line-up of stomach ache remedies—though we assure you, it is indeed a scatterplot representing a serious statistical analysis.

In summary, our results lay bare a compelling relationship between the attainment of academic degrees in mathematics and statistics and the curiosity towards abdominal discomfort. This seemingly incongruous connection serves as a reminder that in the world of statistical analysis, unlikely correlations can emerge, prompting us to ponder the quirky interplay of academic achievements and everyday human experiences.

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 Bachelor's degrees awarded in Mathematics and statistics and Google searches for 'tummy ache'. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns.

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]]
"Crunching the Numbers: The Correlation Between Bachelor's Degrees in Mathematics and Statistics and Google Searches for 'Tummy Ache'"

[[ABSTRACT]]
In this study, we sought to digest the curious relationship between the confounding realms of academic achievement in mathematics and statistics, and the mundane yet prevalent human experience of stomach discomfort, as indicated by Google search trends for the phrase 'tummy ache'. Utilizing data from the National Center for Education Statistics and Google Trends, our analysis revealed a remarkably high correlation coefficient of 0.9916277 and a statistically significant p-value of less than 0.01 for the time period spanning 2012 to 2021. Our findings suggest a strong association between the awarding of Bachelor's degrees in mathematics and statistics and increased queries relating to digestive distress. Though this investigation raises more questions than it answers, it certainly bears notable implications for our understanding of the interconnectedness between intellectual pursuits and common human afflictions. Ultimately, our research serves as a reminder that even in the inscrutable landscape of statistical analysis, there may still be room for tongue-in-cheek correlations.

[[LITERATURE REVIEW]]
The correlation between academic achievement and peculiar societal phenomena has been a subject of scholarly interest for many years. In "Smith et al.'s Analysis of Educational Attainment and Its Societal Implications," the authors explore the complex interplay between educational pursuits and everyday experiences. Similarly, Doe and Jones, in "The Nexus of Academic Excellence and Human Quirks," delve into the unexpected connections that can arise between intellectual endeavors and seemingly mundane occurrences.
Turning to the realm of literature, several notable works have touched upon the themes of mathematics, human physiology, and the curious intersection of the two. "Mathematical Musings on the Human Body" by Dr. Calculus presents an intriguing exploration of the mathematical principles underlying bodily functions, offering a unique perspective on the potential links between math and bodily sensations. In a similar vein, "Statistical Stomach: A Novel Approach to Digestive Discomfort" by Data Dickens offers a fictional narrative that weaves together statistical analyses and gastrointestinal distress in a manner that is as entertaining as it is thought-provoking.
Venturing further into the obscure corners of research, our team stumbled upon an unlikely treasure trove of insights in the form of everyday items – specifically, CVS receipts. While not a conventional source of scholarly information, these paper relics of consumer transactions yielded unexpected revelations about the purchasing patterns of antacids and their potential correlation with local trends in mathematics and statistics education. Although a departure from traditional academic sources, these mundane slips of paper proved to be an unexpectedly rich source of inspiration for our investigation.
As we leap into this uncharted academic territory, it becomes apparent that the pursuit of knowledge often leads us down unexpected and amusing paths. The landscape of scholarly inquiry, it seems, is not without its fair share of quirky diversions.

[[RESULTS]]
Our data analysis revealed a striking correlation coefficient of 0.9916277 between the number of Bachelor's degrees awarded in mathematics and statistics and Google searches for the term 'tummy ache' over the period of 2012 to 2021. This correlation implies a remarkably strong relationship between the academic achievements in the field of mathematical and statistical prowess and the online queries related to abdominal discomfort.
The coefficient of determination (r-squared) of 0.9833255 further emphasizes the robustness of this association, indicating that approximately 98.33% of the variation in 'tummy ache' search volumes can be explained by the number of Bachelor's degrees awarded in mathematics and statistics. Put simply, it seems that the search for understanding gastrointestinal distress is closely tied to the pursuit and attainment of advanced mathematical knowledge—perhaps a testament to the gut-wrenching nature of certain mathematical problems.
Additionally, the statistical analysis yielded a p-value of less than 0.01, signifying that the observed correlation is highly unlikely to have occurred by chance alone. In other words, the likelihood of the strong relationship between mathematics and statistics degrees and 'tummy ache' searches being a fluke is as slim as winning the lottery while simultaneously sneezing and doing a pirouette—virtually impossible.
To visually encapsulate these findings, we present in Figure 1 a scatterplot demonstrating the remarkable correlation between the number of Bachelor's degrees awarded in mathematics and statistics and the frequency of Google searches for 'tummy ache'. The data points are so neatly aligned that one might even mistake them for a perfectly ordered line-up of stomach ache remedies—though we assure you, it is indeed a scatterplot representing a serious statistical analysis.
In summary, our results lay bare a compelling relationship between the attainment of academic degrees in mathematics and statistics and the curiosity towards abdominal discomfort. This seemingly incongruous connection serves as a reminder that in the world of statistical analysis, unlikely correlations can emerge, prompting us to ponder the quirky interplay of academic achievements and everyday human experiences.

-------

Your response should start like this:

[[DISCUSSION]]

ChatGPT:

[[DISCUSSION]]

The present investigation has buttressed the prior research that hinted at the cryptic entanglement of academic accomplishments in mathematics and statistics with the banal yet prevalent human phenomenon of tummy aches. Our findings echo the sentiments expressed in the literature, particularly the sagacious musings of Dr. Calculus in "Mathematical Musings on the Human Body," whose exploration of the mathematical underpinnings of bodily functions appears increasingly prescient. The statistically significant correlation coefficient of 0.9916277 between the awarding of Bachelor's degrees in mathematics and statistics and Google searches for 'tummy ache' lends credence to the notion that there is, indeed, a robust affinity between mathematical prowess and gastrointestinal distress. Notably, the observed r-squared value of 0.9833255 reinforces the notion that a gut feeling about this link is not just a whim but a well-grounded result, substantiating the deep-rooted connection between numerical acumen and visceral discomfort.

Our investigation also uncovered an unexpected parallel with the whimsical study of Data Dickens, "Statistical Stomach: A Novel Approach to Digestive Discomfort," shedding light on the uncanny convergence of statistical analyses and bodily afflictions. The striking coherence between our empirical findings and Dickens' fictional narrative serves as a compelling testament to the remarkable interplay of numbers and the stomach, compelling us to acknowledge that statistical stomachaches are more than just a figment of the academic imagination.

Furthermore, our unexpected foray into the realm of CVS receipts, following the waggish footsteps of such groundbreaking explorations as "Statistical Stomach," cemented our understanding of the whimsical divergences inherent in academic inquiry. Though initially perceived as an offbeat pursuit, our unorthodox investigation into the purchasing patterns of antacids and their correlation with local trends in mathematics and statistics education ultimately reinforced the veracity of our findings and added a touch of levity to our scholarly pursuits.

In conclusion, our research illuminates the uncanny association between the conferment of Bachelor's degrees in mathematics and statistics and the burgeoning curiosity surrounding tummy aches, underscoring the whimsical and unexpected turns that scholarship may take. The robust correlation and statistical significance of our findings highlight the intriguing intertwinement of intellectual feats and everyday human idiosyncrasies, reminding us that even in the ostensibly serious domain of statistical analysis, there may be space for audacious correlations and droll juxtapositions.

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 Bachelor's degrees awarded in Mathematics and statistics and Google searches for 'tummy ache'. Make it seem dry like academic research paper, but with lots of subtle hidden offhand remarks, jokes, goofy observations, and puns.

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]]
"Crunching the Numbers: The Correlation Between Bachelor's Degrees in Mathematics and Statistics and Google Searches for 'Tummy Ache'"

[[ABSTRACT]]
In this study, we sought to digest the curious relationship between the confounding realms of academic achievement in mathematics and statistics, and the mundane yet prevalent human experience of stomach discomfort, as indicated by Google search trends for the phrase 'tummy ache'. Utilizing data from the National Center for Education Statistics and Google Trends, our analysis revealed a remarkably high correlation coefficient of 0.9916277 and a statistically significant p-value of less than 0.01 for the time period spanning 2012 to 2021. Our findings suggest a strong association between the awarding of Bachelor's degrees in mathematics and statistics and increased queries relating to digestive distress. Though this investigation raises more questions than it answers, it certainly bears notable implications for our understanding of the interconnectedness between intellectual pursuits and common human afflictions. Ultimately, our research serves as a reminder that even in the inscrutable landscape of statistical analysis, there may still be room for tongue-in-cheek correlations.

[[INTRDUCTION]]
The pursuit of understanding the intricate patterns of human behavior has long captivated the minds of researchers and scholars across various disciplines. In this study, we venture into the whimsical territory of investigating the enigmatic connection between the academic attainment of Bachelor's degrees in mathematics and statistics, and the seemingly unrelated, yet omnipresent, phenomenon of stomach discomfort, as manifested through Google searches for the colloquial term 'tummy ache'.
While the idea of delving into this peculiar nexus may initially evoke a chuckle or two, the basis of our inquiry underpins a genuine interest in uncovering the whimsical dance of human inquiry and physical malaise. As our investigation unfolds, readers are encouraged to digest the interconnectedness between the cerebral realm of mathematical aptitude and the visceral experience of gastrointestinal unease, and perhaps, bear with us through the occasional pun-infused sidestep.
The juxtaposition of lofty academic pursuits with the prosaic nature of stomach-related searches on the internet may indeed seem like a case of comparing apples and oranges – or in this case, perhaps apples and antacids. Nevertheless, we embarked on this expedition armed with statistical rigor and a sense of humor, recognizing that even in the most serious of academic endeavors, there may yet be room for a lighthearted smirk.
As we embark on this scholarly journey, we aim not only to unravel the statistical patterns that underpin the relationship between these seemingly disparate phenomena but also to revel in the delightful absurdity that emerges from such analyses. So, dear reader, fasten your seatbelts and prepare to savor some data-driven amusement as we unravel the mysterious correlation between mathematical prowess and the humble tummy ache.

[[RESULTS]]
Our data analysis revealed a striking correlation coefficient of 0.9916277 between the number of Bachelor's degrees awarded in mathematics and statistics and Google searches for the term 'tummy ache' over the period of 2012 to 2021. This correlation implies a remarkably strong relationship between the academic achievements in the field of mathematical and statistical prowess and the online queries related to abdominal discomfort.
The coefficient of determination (r-squared) of 0.9833255 further emphasizes the robustness of this association, indicating that approximately 98.33% of the variation in 'tummy ache' search volumes can be explained by the number of Bachelor's degrees awarded in mathematics and statistics. Put simply, it seems that the search for understanding gastrointestinal distress is closely tied to the pursuit and attainment of advanced mathematical knowledge—perhaps a testament to the gut-wrenching nature of certain mathematical problems.
Additionally, the statistical analysis yielded a p-value of less than 0.01, signifying that the observed correlation is highly unlikely to have occurred by chance alone. In other words, the likelihood of the strong relationship between mathematics and statistics degrees and 'tummy ache' searches being a fluke is as slim as winning the lottery while simultaneously sneezing and doing a pirouette—virtually impossible.
To visually encapsulate these findings, we present in Figure 1 a scatterplot demonstrating the remarkable correlation between the number of Bachelor's degrees awarded in mathematics and statistics and the frequency of Google searches for 'tummy ache'. The data points are so neatly aligned that one might even mistake them for a perfectly ordered line-up of stomach ache remedies—though we assure you, it is indeed a scatterplot representing a serious statistical analysis.
In summary, our results lay bare a compelling relationship between the attainment of academic degrees in mathematics and statistics and the curiosity towards abdominal discomfort. This seemingly incongruous connection serves as a reminder that in the world of statistical analysis, unlikely correlations can emerge, prompting us to ponder the quirky interplay of academic achievements and everyday human experiences.

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Your response should start like this:

[[CONCLUSION]]

ChatGPT:

[[CONCLUSION]]

In summary, our investigation into the correlation between the confounding worlds of academic success in mathematics and statistics and the ubiquitous human phenomenon of tummy aches has yielded some rather surprising insights. The remarkably high correlation coefficient and statistically significant p-value emphasize the unexpected link between these seemingly unrelated realms. It appears that the pursuit of understanding gastrointestinal distress is intertwined with the pursuit of advanced mathematical knowledge—a revelation that may leave us with a slight case of cognitive indigestion.

These findings prompt us to consider the implications of such a correlation. Perhaps, as future researchers endeavor to digest these results, they may use this study as a springboard to explore other unlikely connections, such as the link between physics degrees and stubbed toes, or the relationship between literature degrees and existential pondering in the form of cat memes.

Despite the seriousness with which we approach statistical analysis, our study serves as a gentle reminder that sometimes, amidst the rigorous pursuit of knowledge, a bit of whimsy and wonder can sneak in unannounced. As for the practical implications of our findings, it appears that we have uncovered a correlation that is as unexpected as finding a calculus textbook in a kindergarten classroom.

In conclusion, it seems that this curious correlation between Bachelor's degrees in mathematics and statistics and Google searches for 'tummy ache' certainly leaves us with food for thought, or perhaps, antacid for thought. We firmly assert that no further research in this particular area is necessary, as we may have already reached the apex of unexpected and amusing statistical correlations. It's time to bid adieu to this peculiar pairing and move on to more, shall we say, digestible research pursuits.

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 Crunching the Numbers: The Correlation Between Bachelor's Degrees in Mathematics and Statistics and Google Searches for 'Tummy Ache'. Respond only with the name of a fictional academic journal.

ChatGPT:

The Journal of Comedic Quantitative Research

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 Crunching the Numbers: The Correlation Between Bachelor's Degrees in Mathematics and Statistics and Google Searches for 'Tummy Ache'. Respond only with the name of a fictional organization.

ChatGPT:

The Society for Mathematical Mirth and Mischief

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 Crunching the Numbers: The Correlation Between Bachelor's Degrees in Mathematics and Statistics and Google Searches for 'Tummy Ache' with an abstract of In this study, we sought to digest the curious relationship between the confounding realms of academic achievement in mathematics and statistics, and the mundane yet prevalent human experience of stomach discomfort, as indicated by Google search trends for the phrase 'tummy ache'. Utilizing data from the National Center for Education Statistics and Google Trends, our analysis revealed a remarkably high correlation coefficient of 0.9916277 and a statistically significant p-value of less than 0.01 for the time period spanning 2012 to 2021. Our findings suggest a strong association between the awarding of Bachelor's degrees in mathematics and statistics and increased queries relating to digestive distress. Though this investigation raises more questions than it answers, it certainly bears notable implications for our understanding of the interconnectedness between intellectual pursuits and common human afflictions. Ultimately, our research serves as a reminder that even in the inscrutable landscape of statistical analysis, there may still be room for tongue-in-cheek correlations.

ChatGPT:

bachelor's degrees, mathematics, statistics, Google searches, tummy ache, correlation, National Center for Education Statistics, Google Trends, academic achievement, statistical analysis, data analysis, research, human afflictions, correlation coefficient

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

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Data details

Bachelor's degrees awarded in Mathematics and statistics
Detailed data title: Bachelor's degrees conferred by postsecondary institutions, in field of study: Mathematics and statistics
Source: National Center for Education Statistics
See what else correlates with Bachelor's degrees awarded in Mathematics and statistics

Google searches for 'tummy ache'
Detailed data title: Relative volume of Google searches for 'tummy ache' (Worldwide, without quotes)
Source: Google Trends
Additional Info: ^{See full details} Relative search volume (not absolute numbers)

See what else correlates with Google searches for 'tummy ache'

Correlation r = 0.9916277 (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 = 0.9833255 (Coefficient of determination)
This means 98.3% of the change in the one variable (i.e., Google searches for 'tummy ache') is predictable based on the change in the other (i.e., Bachelor's degrees awarded in Mathematics and statistics) over the 10 years from 2012 through 2021.

p < 0.01, which is statistically significant(Null hypothesis significance test)
The p-value is 2.1E-8.^Show 0.0000000212806467510997160000
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 0.99 in 2.1E-6% of random cases. Said differently, if you correlated 46,991,053 random variables^Note You don't actually need 46 million variables to find a correlation like this one. I don't have that many variables in my database. You can also correlate variables that are not independent. I do this a lot.

p-value calculations are useful for understanding the probability of a result happening by chance. They are most useful when used to highlight the risk of a fluke outcome. For example, if you calculate a p-value of 0.30, the risk that the result is a fluke is high. It is good to know that! But there are lots of ways to get a p-value of less than 0.01, as evidenced by this project.

In this particular case, the values are so extreme as to be meaningless. That's why no one reports p-values with specificity after they drop below 0.01.

Just to be clear: I'm being completely transparent about the calculations. There is no math trickery. This is just how statistics shakes out when you calculate hundreds of millions of random correlations.
with the same 9 degrees of freedom, ^Note Degrees of freedom is a measure of how many free components we are testing. In this case it is 9 because we have two variables measured over a period of 10 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.

[ 0.96, 1 ] 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.

	2012	2013	2014	2015	2016	2017	2018	2019	2020	2021
Bachelor's degrees awarded in Mathematics and statistics (Degrees awarded)	18841	20449	20987	21854	22778	24075	25253	26155	27227	27092
Google searches for 'tummy ache' (Rel. search volume)	51	55.5833	60	65.4167	69.0833	71.1667	77.9167	82.5833	83.5	83.5833

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([18841,20449,20987,21854,22778,24075,25253,26155,27227,27092,])
array_2 = np.array([51,55.5833,60,65.4167,69.0833,71.1667,77.9167,82.5833,83.5,83.5833,])
array_1_name = "Bachelor's degrees awarded in Mathematics and statistics"
array_2_name = "Google searches for 'tummy ache'"

# 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 Bachelor's degrees awarded in Mathematics and statistics
Line chart for only Google searches for 'tummy ache'
AI-generated correlation image
The spurious research paper: Crunching the Numbers: The Correlation Between Bachelor's Degrees in Mathematics and Statistics and Google Searches for 'Tummy Ache'

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Correlation ID: 2663 · Black Variable ID: 1283 · Red Variable ID: 1345


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