SPSS Syntax Tutorial

For questions, contact:

Dr. Michael Bixter - bixterm@montclair.edu

Psych 739: Multivariate Statistics

First…why is it important to
understand how to use SPSS syntax?
1. It will save you a ton of time in the long run
(I promise!!!)
2. It allows you to keep a record of your
analyses
3. Easier to keep track of any mistakes
4. Allows you to share your analysis code with
your collaborators
5. Did I already say that it will save you time?!?
Opening a New Syntax File
Syntax File Overview

Syntax files are where you can type and execute code to run all of your
analyses
Learning SPSS Syntax

• You can always find SPSS syntax code tutorials in the SPSS
Manual or by just searching online for examples

My Recommendation

• When first learning SPSS syntax, take advantage of the Paste

option when running a command through the traditional point-
and-click method of using SPSS
 The paste function will “paste” the syntax code of the analysis you are
running to your opened syntax file.
 This allows you to save your syntax without having to write it from
scratch
 It also is a nice learning tool, because you get to become familiar with
the syntax