ChauBoxplot and AdaptiveBoxplot : two R packages for boxplot-based outlier detection
Abstract
Tukey's boxplot is widely used for outlier detection; however, its classic fixed-fence rule tends to flag an excessive number of outliers as the sample size grows. To address this, we introduce two new R packages, ChauBoxplot and AdaptiveBoxplot, which implement more robust and statistically principled outlier detection methods. We illustrate their advantages and practical implications through comprehensive simulation studies and a real-world analysis of provincial university admission rates from China's National College Entrance Examination. Based on these findings, we provide practical guidance to help practitioners select appropriate boxplot methods, achieving a balance between interpretability and statistical reliability.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Anomaly Detection Techniques and Applications
Advanced Statistical Methods and Models
Data Analysis with R
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Statistical Theory and Related Fields
- Publisher
- Informa UK Limited
- Volume
- 10
- Issue
- 3
- Pages
- 507–516
- Publication date
- 24 March 2026
- Language
- EN