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About learning to be a data analyst!
I need to know if I'm doing what's right to become a data analyst, I've been writing down notes of the video tutorials, but I don't know if I'm progressing, please give me the right tools to make sure I become a data analyst, I've been using Udemy.com for training , please reply
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9 answers
Updated
Christopher’s Answer
Hi Jimmy, I agree with Jasmine's response regarding Coursera.org. It is a great platform for learning and obtaining certifications in Data Analytics. You mentioned that you currently use Udemy.com. It is my understanding that there are practice tests available (at least with a paid subscription). If you prefer the Udemy.com platform, I would recommend taking the practice tests to assess your progress so far and ensure that you are focused on the right concepts.
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Ashish’s Answer
Hi Jimmy,
Taking notes is great, but the best way to really learn is by doing projects and using what you know. If you're not sure what projects to start, check out LinkedIn to see what other Data Analysts are doing for inspiration. You can also find project ideas from ChatGPT or online.
Once you have a project idea, try to work on it by yourself. This will help you see where you might need more learning. It will also guide you on which tutorials or courses to explore next. Keep going, and you'll keep improving!
Taking notes is great, but the best way to really learn is by doing projects and using what you know. If you're not sure what projects to start, check out LinkedIn to see what other Data Analysts are doing for inspiration. You can also find project ideas from ChatGPT or online.
Once you have a project idea, try to work on it by yourself. This will help you see where you might need more learning. It will also guide you on which tutorials or courses to explore next. Keep going, and you'll keep improving!
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Drew’s Answer
I believe Stanford and MIT offer some free online courses that you may be able to sign up for. More and more colleges are putting these types of interactions on the web. You could also look into some introductory data visualization courses and certificates offered by Microsoft to build foundational knowledge that might lead to new interest pathways for you to pursue. YouTube also offers several series on data analytics and visualization, providing foundational knowledge.
You might try this as a starting point https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/training/career-paths/data-analyst
Drew recommends the following next steps:
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Daniel’s Answer
I took an untraditional path to become a data analyst at Xerox. I started with a degree in Chemical Engineering and later earned a graduate degree in Imaging Science after joining the company. This led me to a Quality Engineering group where I learned about databases and statistical data analysis. To improve my skills, I pursued a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt. This helped me move to a Senior Data Analysis role, focusing on online Business Intelligence tools for the Supplies Division. I also took courses in Power BI, SQL, and Python to enhance my data analysis and programming skills.
In my experience, most data analysts I've met have degrees in Computer Science or IT, which I see as the traditional path. Their programming and database skills are often stronger than mine. If you're interested in becoming a data analyst, consider these degrees. Good luck!
In my experience, most data analysts I've met have degrees in Computer Science or IT, which I see as the traditional path. Their programming and database skills are often stronger than mine. If you're interested in becoming a data analyst, consider these degrees. Good luck!
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Tony’s Answer
Hi Jimmy, starting with Udemy is a fantastic way to dive into learning about data analytics. I hope the courses are providing you with helpful examples and tools.
There are many tools available for data analytics, and they're always improving. But remember, your most important tool is your mind. First, think about what you want to learn from the data. Identify where you can get the data and whether it's complete or if you need more from other sources. Once you have the data and a clear goal, you can choose the right software tools.
Many data analytics projects begin with spreadsheets like Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets. These tools let you create pivot tables and charts to understand the data better. As you grow, you can explore advanced tools like Microsoft Power BI, which is widely used and connects to various data sources.
As you advance in your data analytics journey, you might need to learn programming languages like SQL, Python, or DAX. Tools like NotePad++ can be useful for editing any code you need to create for your analytics work. Keep going, and enjoy the learning process!
There are many tools available for data analytics, and they're always improving. But remember, your most important tool is your mind. First, think about what you want to learn from the data. Identify where you can get the data and whether it's complete or if you need more from other sources. Once you have the data and a clear goal, you can choose the right software tools.
Many data analytics projects begin with spreadsheets like Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets. These tools let you create pivot tables and charts to understand the data better. As you grow, you can explore advanced tools like Microsoft Power BI, which is widely used and connects to various data sources.
As you advance in your data analytics journey, you might need to learn programming languages like SQL, Python, or DAX. Tools like NotePad++ can be useful for editing any code you need to create for your analytics work. Keep going, and enjoy the learning process!
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Richard A. (Tony)’s Answer
Jimmy,
What do you THINK a data analyst does?
In my world, they take information in many forms and turn it into something that is consumable and traceable by (pardon the terms) total idiots.
If you want to REALLY see what a [good] data analyst does, look up Edward Tuffte (https://www.edwardtufte.com/) a really celebrated professor from Yale (his art/sculpture - not so much). His specialty is taking data and presenting it in a fashion that highlights what is important.
Two key samples spring to mind - graphical representation of Shuttle launch temperatures that WOULD have prevented the Challenger launch, and one is the graphical representation of the human cost of Napoleon's march on Moscow. Real eyeopeners on history.
Bottom line, a GOOD Data Analyst will be able to understand the data and what it represents with enough clarity to extract the import relationships and meanings, and then present it succinctly that generates a Gestalt response. It's not just making charts - It's making charts and graphs that communicate an unmistakable understanding of something.
When you get a minute - look at the data for Leaded Gasoline usage in the US and Violent crime in the US over the years 1920 - 2020 and see how you can present that data that leads to an inescapable conclusion - you do that and you might just understand what it is to be a Data Analyst.
Tony
P.S. Take Art classes that let you illustrate data too!
What do you THINK a data analyst does?
In my world, they take information in many forms and turn it into something that is consumable and traceable by (pardon the terms) total idiots.
If you want to REALLY see what a [good] data analyst does, look up Edward Tuffte (https://www.edwardtufte.com/) a really celebrated professor from Yale (his art/sculpture - not so much). His specialty is taking data and presenting it in a fashion that highlights what is important.
Two key samples spring to mind - graphical representation of Shuttle launch temperatures that WOULD have prevented the Challenger launch, and one is the graphical representation of the human cost of Napoleon's march on Moscow. Real eyeopeners on history.
Bottom line, a GOOD Data Analyst will be able to understand the data and what it represents with enough clarity to extract the import relationships and meanings, and then present it succinctly that generates a Gestalt response. It's not just making charts - It's making charts and graphs that communicate an unmistakable understanding of something.
When you get a minute - look at the data for Leaded Gasoline usage in the US and Violent crime in the US over the years 1920 - 2020 and see how you can present that data that leads to an inescapable conclusion - you do that and you might just understand what it is to be a Data Analyst.
Tony
P.S. Take Art classes that let you illustrate data too!
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John’s Answer
You’re on the right track by taking notes from video tutorials on Udemy—note-taking helps reinforce learning and makes it easier to review concepts later. However, to ensure you’re progressing toward becoming a data analyst, consider adding these steps and tools to your routine:
Core Skills to Build
• Learn Excel for data manipulation and basic analysis—it’s a foundational tool for analysts.
• Study SQL for querying databases.
• Get comfortable with Python or R for more advanced analytics and automation.
• Practice data visualization using tools like Power BI or Tableau—these are industry standards for presenting insights.
How to Track Your Progress
• Set clear learning goals (e.g., finish a course, complete a project).
• Apply what you learn by working on small projects or Kaggle datasets.
• Take online quizzes or assessments to test your skills—many platforms offer these for free.
• Build a portfolio by saving your projects and visualizations to share with potential employers.
Recommended Free Resources
• Kaggle (for hands-on projects and competitions).
• Khan Academy (for statistics and SQL basics).
• 365 Data Science flashcards (for reviewing key concepts).
• CareerFoundry’s free short course (for an overview of the analytics process)
Core Skills to Build
• Learn Excel for data manipulation and basic analysis—it’s a foundational tool for analysts.
• Study SQL for querying databases.
• Get comfortable with Python or R for more advanced analytics and automation.
• Practice data visualization using tools like Power BI or Tableau—these are industry standards for presenting insights.
How to Track Your Progress
• Set clear learning goals (e.g., finish a course, complete a project).
• Apply what you learn by working on small projects or Kaggle datasets.
• Take online quizzes or assessments to test your skills—many platforms offer these for free.
• Build a portfolio by saving your projects and visualizations to share with potential employers.
Recommended Free Resources
• Kaggle (for hands-on projects and competitions).
• Khan Academy (for statistics and SQL basics).
• 365 Data Science flashcards (for reviewing key concepts).
• CareerFoundry’s free short course (for an overview of the analytics process)
Updated
Jasmine’s Answer
Hi, Jimmy!
I'm a Sales Specialist too, but I'm aiming to get into data analysis. I think Coursera.org is a great place to start. They offer many courses, including some free ones, where you can become a certified Data Analyst.
I'm currently working on the Google Cloud Professional: Data Engineer certification. It's a bit challenging, but there are lots of resources to help you through it.
I've also connected with others who are studying to be data analysts. We've formed study groups, which can be really helpful if you find any lessons tough. Reaching out to your network can make a big difference.
Having a supportive team keeps you motivated and focused on earning your Data Analytics certification. With determination and support, you'll find plenty of opportunities ahead!
Good luck, my friend! I hope this helps!
I'm a Sales Specialist too, but I'm aiming to get into data analysis. I think Coursera.org is a great place to start. They offer many courses, including some free ones, where you can become a certified Data Analyst.
I'm currently working on the Google Cloud Professional: Data Engineer certification. It's a bit challenging, but there are lots of resources to help you through it.
I've also connected with others who are studying to be data analysts. We've formed study groups, which can be really helpful if you find any lessons tough. Reaching out to your network can make a big difference.
Having a supportive team keeps you motivated and focused on earning your Data Analytics certification. With determination and support, you'll find plenty of opportunities ahead!
Good luck, my friend! I hope this helps!
Updated
Mikhail’s Answer
Hi Jimmy,
The basic toolset might be 1) Excel, 2) Tableau/Power BI, 3) SQL.
You can then add Python/R to the mix.
Completing Online courses sounds like a great approach.
You can test yourself by completing Data Challenges here: https://mavenanalytics.io/challenges
You might also consider to find an internship that would boost your growth.
Good luck!
The basic toolset might be 1) Excel, 2) Tableau/Power BI, 3) SQL.
You can then add Python/R to the mix.
Completing Online courses sounds like a great approach.
You can test yourself by completing Data Challenges here: https://mavenanalytics.io/challenges
You might also consider to find an internship that would boost your growth.
Good luck!