In the context of the SYMBOL statement, what does the 'i=' option specify?

The 'i=' option within the SYMBOL statement in SAS is used to specify the interpolation method for the symbols in a plot. This means it controls how SAS draws the line segments between the data points. Different interpolation methods can affect the visual representation of the data, especially for time series or line plots where the connection between points is significant. For example, linear interpolation creates straight lines between points, while other methods may provide smoother curves or different visual effects.

In contexts where data points might be sporadic or irregular, choosing the correct interpolation can enhance the clarity and usefulness of a graphical output. This attention to detail in graphical representation is crucial when presenting data to ensure that the information is conveyed accurately and effectively.

Understanding other options: Symbol shape, line width, and color of symbols pertain to different characteristics in the SYMBOL statement. While they define how the symbols look in terms of their shape, size, and color, the 'i=' option is specifically focused on the method of connecting those symbols rather than their artistic attributes.