Search Algorithms: MIMBuild



Introduction

MIM Build stands for Multiple Indicator Model Build. It is one of the three algorithms in Tetrad designed to build pure measurement/structural models (the others are the Build Pure Clusters algorithm and the Purify algorithm).

MIM Build should be used to learn causal relationships among latent variables in a when the measurement model is given in advance but the structural model is unknown.

The MIM Build algorithm also assumes that the underlying (unknown) data generating process is a linear graph. If the user strongly suspects that the latents or indicators may be non-linearly related, MIM Build should not be used. We are also assuming that latents here do not have other hidden common causes.

All observed variables are assumed to be continuous, and therefore the current implementation of the algorithm accepts only continuous data sets as input. For general information about model building algorithms, consult the Search Algorithms page.


Entering MIM Build parameters

Create a new Search object as described in the Search Algorithms page, but in order to follow this tutorial, use the following graph to generate a simulated continuous data set:

When the MIM Build algorithm is chosen from the Search box, a window appears for specifying search parameters.

The parameters that are used by MIM Build can be specified in this window. The parameters are as follows:

Execute the search as explained in the Search Algorithms page.


Interpreting the output

MIM Build returns a pattern over latent variables that is completely analogous to the one produced by a PC Search, or GES Search. The same interpretation used in such algorithms can be applied to MIM Build output.