Matplotlib `cla()`, `clf()`, and `close()`: When to Use Which?

When to Use cla(), clf(), or close() for Clearing a Plot

Matplotlib provides several functions for clearing plots: cla(), clf(), and close(). Understanding their individual functions and usage scenarios is crucial for effective plot management.

cla()

The cla() function clears the current axis in a figure, removing all plotted data and labels. It does not affect other axes within the figure.

When to Use: Use cla() when you want to erase data from a specific axis without clearing the entire figure or closing the window.

clf()

The clf() function clears the entire current figure, removing all axes, plot elements, and labels. The figure itself remains open, allowing it to be reused for subsequent plots.

When to Use: Use clf() when you need to completely clear a figure and start with a fresh drawing surface.

close()

The close() function closes the current figure window. You can specify a specific window to close by passing its number or name as an argument. Additionally, close('all') closes all open figure windows.

When to Use: Use close() when you want to remove a figure window from memory. This is useful when you have multiple plots open and need to free up resources.

Comparison Table

Function	Action
cla()	Clear the current axis
clf()	Clear the entire current figure
close()	Close the current figure window

Usage Examples

pyplot Interface:

import matplotlib.pyplot as plt

# Clear the current axis
plt.cla()

# Clear the entire figure
plt.clf()

# Close the current figure window
plt.close()

Figure Class Methods:

import matplotlib.pyplot as plt

# Create a figure
fig = plt.figure()

# Clear the figure
fig.clf()

Note: The fig.clear() method is a synonym for fig.clf().

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