R is a powerful and popular open-source programming language and environment primarily used for statistical computing and data visualization. It is widely recognized in the fields of data science and machine learning, making it a go-to choice for statisticians, analysts, and data scientists who need to analyze and visualize data effectively.

R allows users to write scripts, execute commands, and create graphics, which can be displayed on-screen or saved to files. It supports both interactive and batch processing modes, enabling users to explore data in real-time or run pre-written scripts for analysis. The R console is the most common interface for beginners, providing a straightforward way to start coding in R.

Additionally, R has a strong community and ecosystem, supported by organizations like the R Consortium, which aims to promote the language and assist its user community ⁴. This collaborative environment fosters the development of numerous packages and tools that enhance R’s capabilities for various applications.