Use of computer graphics in fitting statistical distribution functions to data representing random events

This paper describes the manner in which a window-oriented, graphical user interface can facilitate the fitting of statistical distribution functions to data representing random events. A multi-featured program that can display data in the form of histograms, fit specified distribution functions to the data and determine a distribution function that best fits the data is described and illustrated with graphical examples. The results are displayed both graphically and in tabular form. Additional features are also described. The program has been written to be compatible with the SIMAN graphical user interface, though the results are general and can be applied within any particular graphical environment.