Steps On How To Become A Very Good Data Analyst. As time passes, there is an overwhelming exponential increase in data development. However, to become an outstanding asset in the field of analysis, There are certain data-analytical skills that must be acquired to be very good.
We will walk you through the steps to becoming a very good data analyst, and you will learn the most in-depth level of actions to take in order to not only be a data analyst but a very good one.
Steps On How To Become A Very Good Data Analyst
However, it would be incorrect of us to provide you with a step-by-step process for becoming a very good data analyst. Without telling you what data analysis is and who data analysts are, it will be like putting square pegs in a round hole.
What Is Data Analysis?
From the eyes of an eagle, the word “analyze” can mean having to look keenly through something to get useful details or information from it. Hence, data analytics can simply be defined as the process of gaining meaningful insights from raw data by looking through it. Examples of such insights can be information on businesses, the development of new products, and market trends.
Data analytics has potential similar to that of individuals playing a puzzle game. A puzzle player plays a puzzle game by arranging the pieces into a specific order in order to gain sensible meaning. Data analysts are similarly trained to collect information from various sources. Analyze the data collected and then change it into information with clear details that humans can interpret.
There is a vast requirement for experts who help organizations convert raw data into simplified details or information. Therefore, they affect the overall growth of businesses. There are several tools and platforms used in the process of analysis.
Who Is A Data Analyst?
A data analyst collects information, evaluates it, processes it, and performs analysis on the datasets. Every organization or enterprise, be it small-scale or large, generates and collects data. The information or data collected can be in the form of customer feedback, accounts, marketing, research, etc.
A data analyst is an expert who collects this data and develops vast measures, such as how to improve the services rendered to customers, the prices of new materials, and the reduction of transport costs, just to mention a few. A very good analyst deals with the handling of data, data modification, and reporting. Now let’s talk about the topic of the day: how to become a very good analyst.
How To Become A Very Good Data Analyst
There are various places you can find data analytics jobs, such as in various industries and organizations, among others. If you want to be highly recommended by various individuals to organizations and frequently sorted out by different enterprises, you must be a very good data analyst. Here are the various steps to take and processes to undergo on how to become a very good analysis;
Obtain a Superior Educational Background
If this is your first time being exposed to the world of data analysis, You may have to get some basic knowledge in the field to start. Getting a wide overview of data analytics will help you make the decision on whether you want to venture into it while developing the necessary skills.
It is a regular practice that every data analyst must have a bachelor’s degree if he or she wants to be employed by an enterprise. However, this is changing as the day goes by.
While you can build yourself up with basic foundational knowledge in mathematics and computer-related courses, Establishments now allow individuals with no bachelor’s degree but certification from professional programs, boot camps, or even self-study courses to work in companies as data analysts.
Build Your Technical Skills
Working as a data analyst in companies or any enterprise requires the possession of certain technical skills or data analytics skills. Whether acquiring a degree program, professional certification, or through self-development, there are certain necessary skill sets that must be learned for you to get a job as an analyst. Some of these skill sets are:
- Statistics
- R or Python programming
- SQL (Structural Query Language)
- Data Visualization
- Data cleaning and preparation
before you decide to accept a job or apply for one. You must focus your learning on a specific programming language that is required. This is the standard for most companies on data analyst requirements in other to get hired.
Furthermore, these skills are not easy to acquire. Managers also look at other skill sets like communication skills, among others. You may be asked to explain certain findings of yours in a simpler form so that others without such knowledge can understand.
Work on Real-World Data Projects
Very good data analysts always deal with real-world situations. Search for degree programs that make use of real data. You can also look for various free public sets of data you can use for the development of your own work.
The National Centers for Environmental Information give climate data of different varieties, which you can search through.
You can dive into the news by extracting data from the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) or give solutions to the problems of individuals who venture into forex trading by using the data acquired for the world’s biggest traders.
Make Your Own Portfolio of Your Work
as you go around working on different data sets. Make sure to compile a portfolio of your best work. This gives the candidate a sense of high value in the eyes of hiring managers. A very strong portfolio gives you a very high chance of getting jobs at different companies.
As you begin to create a very good folder for yourself, you must be able to choose the real ones that demonstrate your potential to:
- Generate data from different sources.
- Skim and normalize raw data
- Scan your findings through graphs, charts, or maps.
- Data can be used to generate useful insights.
Another advantage that increases the value of your folder is having to work in a group. This shows that you can practice teamwork.
Experiment with Communicating Your Findings
The urge to give all attention to the technical aspect of data analysis can be very tempting. This can result in ineffective communication of findings. The most important part of data analysis is not getting and analyzing the data but explaining your findings in a language that stakeholders in companies can understand.
Put your findings in the minds of your listeners like a story when you are able to communicate them effectively and clearly. This helps organizations make effective decisions.
Apply for a Data Analyst Position
Following that, finding work should be considered. Certain companies and positions can be scary to apply for, but this shouldn’t be your concern.
Apply to companies and for positions that you feel qualified or unqualified for. Your potential, drive, and enthusiasm are the most important qualities of a very good analyst. Don’t concern yourself with the companies’ qualification lists out there. Meeting all the qualifications required by companies does not guarantee that you will be employed by them.
Obtain Additional Certification or an Advanced Degree
As you begin to grow in your career as a data analyst, you should consider taking your qualifications to the next level. Getting certificates such as “Certified Analytics Professional” or “Cloudera Certified Data Analyst” will help you get promoted to a higher position with increased pay.
However, when considering advancing to the position of a data scientist, you may need to get a master’s degree in data science or any field related to data science. Although advanced degrees are not always required, having one increases your chances of getting many more opportunities.
Difference Between Data Scientist And A Data Analyst
Although there is a common and significant similarity between a data scientist and an analyst in that they both involve data, here is the major difference between them:
Data Analyst
A data analyst is trained to give solutions to business problems using tools like SQL, R, or Python programming languages, data visualization software, and statistical analysis.
Data Scientist
A data scientist makes use of more advanced data techniques in determining what is likely to happen in the future. They develop prediction models and automate their own machine-learning algorithm that can solve problems with both structured and unstructured data.
What Does A Data Analyst Do?
A data analyst has the sole responsibility of collecting, evaluating, and analyzing information (data) that can be used in improving business decision-making. They must be able to clearly communicate their findings to those in charge of making decisions. In addition, a data analyst should have a very good knowledge of mathematics and computer science.
The role being played by data analysts has become very essential to the growth of any business that wants to beat its competitors, whether small or large. Data analysts provide help with drawing reasonable conclusions from very large data collections.
They use a high level of skill derived from knowledge of mathematics and computer science to evaluate and go through data, and then clearly communicate their findings to those who take on the role of implementation.
How To Become A Data Analyst Without A Degree
Although the usefulness of having a degree in data analysis cannot be overemphasized, However, you can also be a data analyst even without a degree. Data analysis in the business world is in very high demand.
All that some employers desire in individuals they want to hire is the right attitude and enthusiasm, and also if they have the skill set, not necessarily a degree. It can be a form of education for data analysis from basic programs and so on. If you don’t have a degree, focus on using the free data available online to build your own portfolio to a very high standard.
How To Become A Data Analyst Without Experience
You don’t have any working experience in data analysis; there’s no need to be scared about this. Although most companies and enterprises often hire employees with one form of work experience or another,
However, you don’t have to wait for a job opportunity to get hired. There are a million numbers of data points around us. You can collect data from the internet, clean it, analyze it, and evaluate it. You can come out with your own findings from your vast research to gain experience. Also, you can seek the training of a real data analyst to gain experience.
How to become a data analyst for free?
If you are looking for where to become a data analyst for free, you are in the right place. Simplilearn is the best solution for this. although it is not entirely free. However, it is free for beginner courses.
Simplilearn
This is an online boot camp and an online learning and upskilling platform. They offer the industry’s best master’s programs and certifications. The Introduction to Data Analytics Course offers a free course for beginners looking to become data analysts or analytics managers. Its free Google Analytics Training Course for Beginners helps you learn to set up a Google Analytics account and understand the metrics in digital marketing.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Many Years Does It Take to Become A Data Analyst?
There is no specific time it takes to become a data analyst. However, researchers say it is estimated to take several months to several years to become a data analyst. The amount of time it takes depends on your current skill set, your educational background, and how much time you put into developing the skills of a data analyst.
Can I Be a Data Analyst Without a Degree?
Luckily, yes, you can. Although most companies require at least a bachelor’s degree as a criterion for employment, it also increases your chances of being hired. However, it is also possible to get hired just by having the right skill sets and experience. If you don’t have a degree, make sure you spend extra time developing your portfolio so you can demonstrate your abilities.
What Qualifications Do You Need to Be a Data Analyst?
Data analytics is a profession that is based solely on the right skill sets. Many positions look for candidates with proficiency in SQL, Microsoft Excel, R, or Python programming, data visualization, and presentation skills. These are some of the data analyst qualifications needed, so in order to be employed by any company, you must have this set of skills at your disposal.
Are Data Analysts in Demand?
The demand for skilled data analysts is on the increase as the day goes by. In addition, the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs 2020 report listed this career as number one in terms of increasing demand. And hiring data analysts is a top priority across a range of industries, including technology, financial services, healthcare, information technology, and energy.
