Random starting points for mode-finding

  1. Finding the correct mode (and all that goes into it) is the main technical challenge in estimating DSGE models. There are many intricacies. That is not a problem that is “too specific”. If you look through the forum, the non-positive definite Hessian at the mode is the most common problem in estimation. That is why I warned you long ago to embark on this path. Also keep in mind the Pareto rule: the last 20 percent take 80 percent of the time.
  2. Forget about the code part I wrote. Run one single estimation command with the mode_check option and the graphs should show up (unless you have nograph enabled). Also see Mode Check Plots Curvature - #2 by jpfeifer