Review of sample-based methods used in an analysis of multistable dynamical systems

Sample-based methods are a useful tool in analyzing the global behavior of multi-stable systems originating from various branches of science. Classical methods, such as bifurcation diagrams, Lyapunov exponents, and basins of attraction, often fail to analyze complex systems with many coexisting attractors. Thus, we have to apply a different strategy to understand the dynamics of such systems. We can distinguish basin stability, extended basin stability, constrained basin stability, basin entropy, time dependent stability margin, and survivability among sample-based methods. Each method has specific properties and gives us important data about the behavior of the analyzed system. However, none of the methods provides complete information. Hence, to have a full overview of the dynamics, one has to collect data from two or more approaches. This study describes the sample-based methods and presents their advantages and disadvantages for the archetypal nonlinear oscillator with multiple coexisting attractors. Hence, we give helpful information in selecting the best method or methods for analyzing the dynamical system.