How to avoid potential pitfalls in recurrence plot based data analysis

TL;DR

This paper discusses common pitfalls and potential misuse in applying recurrence plots and recurrence quantification analysis, emphasizing the importance of careful interpretation in dynamical systems research.

Contribution

It highlights specific problems and pitfalls in the application of recurrence-based methods, providing guidance to avoid misinterpretation.

Findings

Identifies key pitfalls in recurrence plot analysis

Provides recommendations to prevent misuse

Emphasizes importance of proper interpretation

Abstract

Recurrence plots and recurrence quantification analysis have become popular in the last two decades. Recurrence based methods have on the one hand a deep foundation in the theory of dynamical systems and are on the other hand powerful tools for the investigation of a variety of problems. The increasing interest encompasses the growing risk of misuse and uncritical application of these methods. Therefore, we point out potential problems and pitfalls related to different aspects of the application of recurrence plots and recurrence quantification analysis.