To create a contour plot, you need two variables for the x- and y-axes and at least one more variable for contours. You can also use several y-variables. This example uses the Little Pond.jmp sample data table. X and Y are coordinates of a pond. Z is the depth.

The x- and y-axes are coordinates and the contour lines are defined by the depth variable. This contour plot is essentially a map of a pond showing depth. To see the contours more clearly, click the red triangle menu and select Fill Areas.