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Introduction to Data Analytics

Rav Ahuja

Ready to start a career in Data Analysis but don’t know where to begin? This course presents you with a gentle introduction to Data Analysis, the role of a Data Analyst, and the tools used in this job. You will learn about the skills and responsibilities of a data analyst and hear from several data experts sharing their tips & advice to start a career. This course will help you to differentiate between the roles of Data Analysts, Data Scientists, and Data Engineers.

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Ready to start a career in Data Analysis but don’t know where to begin? This course presents you with a gentle introduction to Data Analysis, the role of a Data Analyst, and the tools used in this job. You will learn about the skills and responsibilities of a data analyst and hear from several data experts sharing their tips & advice to start a career. This course will help you to differentiate between the roles of Data Analysts, Data Scientists, and Data Engineers.

You will familiarize yourself with the data ecosystem, alongside Databases, Data Warehouses, Data Marts, Data Lakes and Data Pipelines. Continue this exciting journey and discover Big Data platforms such as Hadoop, Hive, and Spark.

By the end of this course you’ll be able to understand the fundamentals of the data analysis process including gathering, cleaning, analyzing and sharing data and communicating your insights with the use of visualizations and dashboard tools.

This all comes together in the final project where it will test your knowledge of the course material, and provide a real-world scenario of data analysis tasks.

This course does not require any prior data analysis, spreadsheet, or computer science experience.

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What's inside

Syllabus

What is Data Analytics
In this module, you will learn about the different types of data analysis and the key steps in a data analysis process. You will gain an understanding of the different components of a modern data ecosystem, and the role Data Engineers, Data Analysts, Data Scientists, Business Analysts, and Business Intelligence Analysts play in this ecosystem. You will also learn about the role, responsibilities, and skillsets required to be a Data Analyst, and what a typical day in the life of a Data Analyst looks like.
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Introduces potential data science career, roles, and responsibilities. Serves as a survey for the field for those unsure of what roles are available
Exposes beginners to foundational vocabulary, platforms, and tools for data analysis
Strong overview of essential concepts in data analysis, including gathering data, data cleaning and preparation, exploratory data analysis, data visualization, and storytelling
Well-structured and comprehensive, with a logical progression of topics and modules

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Reviews summary

Foundational overview of data analytics

According to learners, this course provides an excellent foundational understanding of data analytics, making it ideal for absolute beginners with no prior experience. Students praise its broad overview of the data analytics landscape, including the different roles within the data ecosystem and the core concepts of data handling. The clear explanations and structured modules are frequently highlighted as strengths, making complex topics accessible. While it offers a valuable final project for practical application, some learners note it is more conceptual than intensely hands-on with specific tools, and thus may be less suitable for intermediate learners seeking deeper technical dives.
Helps solidify knowledge with a real-world scenario.
"The final project was a great way to apply what I learned and really solidified my understanding of the data analysis process from end to end."
"I found the capstone project highly beneficial for putting theory into practice."
"Completing the final assignment gave me confidence in my ability to handle basic data analysis tasks."
Provides a wide understanding of the data ecosystem and roles.
"The overview of the data ecosystem and different roles was incredibly insightful. It helped me understand where I want to focus my career."
"I appreciated learning about the distinctions between Data Analysts, Scientists, and Engineers, which clarified career paths."
"This course gave me a solid bird's-eye view of what data analytics entails across various industries."
Perfectly tailored for those with no prior experience.
"As a complete beginner, this course was exactly what I needed. It broke down complex topics into easy-to-understand chunks."
"I had no prior experience in data, but this course gently guided me through the basics and made it accessible."
"Truly a great introduction, it assumes absolutely no prior knowledge and builds concepts step by step."
Some modules are fast-paced; some tools need minor updates.
"Some parts felt rushed, especially when introducing Big Data tools like Hadoop and Spark."
"I noticed a few minor points where the content could be updated to reflect current industry practices or tool versions."
"While the course provides a strong foundation, I think some content might benefit from being refreshed to keep up with the fast-evolving data landscape."
Too basic for those with existing data analytics knowledge.
"Too basic. If you have any prior experience, this course will be too slow and redundant."
"I came in with some spreadsheet experience and found the initial modules covered ground I already knew."
"This course is definitely for newcomers; those looking to advance their skills will find it lacking."
More conceptual than hands-on coding for specific tools.
"Good for a general overview, but I wish there were more hands-on exercises or coding examples. It felt a bit too theoretical at times."
"While it covered many topics, it didn't go deep into any specific tool or programming language, which I had hoped for."
"I felt the course focused more on 'what' rather than 'how' when it came to using analytical tools."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Introduction to Data Analytics with these activities:
Attend data analysis workshops
Participate in workshops led by industry experts to acquire hands-on experience and expand your knowledge in specific areas of data analysis.
Show steps
  • Research and identify relevant workshops offered by universities, professional organizations, or online platforms.
  • Register for and attend the workshops to actively engage with instructors and peers.
Connect with data analysts
Seek out experienced data analysts for guidance and support to supplement your learning and gain real-world insights.
Show steps
  • Attend industry events or online forums to network with professionals.
  • Reach out to data analysts via LinkedIn or email to request mentorship.
Review statistics fundamentals
Reinforce your foundational skills in statistics to better comprehend some of the more advanced concepts taught in this data analysis course.
Browse courses on Statistics
Show steps
  • Review your notes or textbooks on probability concepts like mean, median, mode, and standard deviation.
  • Brush up on hypothesis testing: null and alternative hypotheses, p-values, and significance levels.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Build a data analysis dashboard
Design and develop interactive dashboards to effectively present data insights and facilitate decision-making.
Browse courses on Data Visualization
Show steps
  • Identify the key data metrics and visualizations you want to include.
  • Select a dashboarding tool and learn its interface.
  • Build the dashboard and connect it to the data source.
  • Test and iterate on the dashboard design for usability and functionality.
Contribute to open-source data analysis projects
Engage with the open-source community to enhance your coding skills, learn from others, and contribute to the field of data analysis.
Show steps
  • Identify relevant projects on platforms like GitHub.
  • Review the project's documentation and codebase.
  • Start contributing by submitting bug reports or code changes.
Develop a data analysis case study
Apply your data analysis skills to a real-world scenario to enhance your understanding and demonstrate your proficiency.
Browse courses on Data Storytelling
Show steps
  • Identify a business problem or question that can be addressed through data analysis.
  • Collect and clean the necessary data.
  • Analyze the data and draw meaningful insights.
  • Visualize your findings effectively.
  • Write a report or create a presentation to present your case study.
Data storytelling practice
Enhance your ability to derive meaningful insights from data and present them effectively through storytelling.
Browse courses on Data Visualization
Show steps
  • Choose a dataset and identify the key narrative you want to convey.
  • Craft a compelling narrative that highlights the insights and implications of the data.
  • Practice presenting your story to an audience, using visual aids and clear language.

Career center

Learners who complete Introduction to Data Analytics will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Data Analyst
A Data Analyst gathers, cleans, and analyzes data to help businesses make informed decisions. This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the field of data analysis, including the skills and responsibilities of a Data Analyst. By completing this course, you'll be well-prepared to launch a successful career as a Data Analyst.
See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst
Data Scientist
A Data Scientist uses advanced statistical and machine learning techniques to extract insights from data. This course provides a foundation in the skills and tools used by Data Scientists, including data gathering, cleaning, analysis, and visualization. By completing this course, you'll be well-positioned to pursue a career as a Data Scientist.
See salaries and explore the career path for Data Scientist
Business Analyst
A Business Analyst helps businesses understand their data and make better decisions. This course provides a solid foundation in the skills and knowledge needed to succeed as a Business Analyst, including data analysis, visualization, and communication. By completing this course, you'll be well-prepared to launch a successful career as a Business Analyst.
See salaries and explore the career path for Business Analyst
Data Engineer
A Data Engineer designs, builds, and maintains the infrastructure that supports data analysis. This course provides an introduction to the skills and tools used by Data Engineers, including data storage, processing, and management. By completing this course, you'll be well-prepared to pursue a career as a Data Engineer.
See salaries and explore the career path for Data Engineer
Machine Learning Engineer
A Machine Learning Engineer builds and deploys machine learning models to solve business problems. This course provides a foundation in the skills and tools used by Machine Learning Engineers, including data analysis, machine learning, and software engineering. By completing this course, you'll be well-positioned to pursue a career as a Machine Learning Engineer.
See salaries and explore the career path for Machine Learning Engineer
Data Visualization Analyst
A Data Visualization Analyst creates visual representations of data to help businesses communicate insights and make informed decisions. This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the skills and tools used by Data Visualization Analysts, including data visualization, storytelling, and communication. By completing this course, you'll be well-prepared to launch a successful career as a Data Visualization Analyst.
See salaries and explore the career path for Data Visualization Analyst
Statistician
A Statistician uses statistical methods to collect, analyze, and interpret data. This course provides a strong foundation in the skills and knowledge needed to succeed as a Statistician, including data analysis, probability, and inference. By completing this course, you'll be well-prepared to launch a successful career as a Statistician.
See salaries and explore the career path for Statistician
Data Architect
A Data Architect designs and manages the data architecture of an organization. This course provides an introduction to the skills and tools used by Data Architects, including data modeling, data integration, and data governance. By completing this course, you'll be well-prepared to pursue a career as a Data Architect.
See salaries and explore the career path for Data Architect
Database Administrator
A Database Administrator manages and maintains databases. This course provides an introduction to the skills and tools used by Database Administrators, including database design, database management, and database security. By completing this course, you'll be well-prepared to pursue a career as a Database Administrator.
See salaries and explore the career path for Database Administrator
Information Security Analyst
An Information Security Analyst protects an organization's data from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction. This course provides an introduction to the skills and tools used by Information Security Analysts, including data security, network security, and risk management. By completing this course, you'll be well-prepared to pursue a career as an Information Security Analyst.
See salaries and explore the career path for Information Security Analyst
Data Governance Officer
A Data Governance Officer develops and implements policies and procedures to ensure that an organization's data is used in a consistent and ethical manner. This course provides an introduction to the skills and tools used by Data Governance Officers, including data governance, data quality, and data privacy. By completing this course, you'll be well-prepared to pursue a career as a Data Governance Officer.
See salaries and explore the career path for Data Governance Officer
Data Librarian
A Data Librarian manages and organizes an organization's data assets. This course provides an introduction to the skills and tools used by Data Librarians, including data management, data organization, and metadata management. By completing this course, you'll be well-prepared to pursue a career as a Data Librarian.
See salaries and explore the career path for Data Librarian
Data Steward
A Data Steward is responsible for the quality, accuracy, and completeness of an organization's data. This course provides an introduction to the skills and tools used by Data Stewards, including data quality management, data governance, and data lineage. By completing this course, you'll be well-prepared to pursue a career as a Data Steward.
See salaries and explore the career path for Data Steward
Data Privacy Officer
A Data Privacy Officer is responsible for protecting an organization's data from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction. This course provides an introduction to the skills and tools used by Data Privacy Officers, including data privacy law, data security, and risk management. By completing this course, you'll be well-prepared to pursue a career as a Data Privacy Officer.
See salaries and explore the career path for Data Privacy Officer
Data Warehouse Architect
A Data Warehouse Architect designs and builds data warehouses. This course provides an introduction to the skills and tools used by Data Warehouse Architects, including data modeling, data integration, and data management. By completing this course, you'll be well-prepared to pursue a career as a Data Warehouse Architect.
See salaries and explore the career path for Data Warehouse Architect

Reading list

We've selected nine books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Introduction to Data Analytics.
Cover image
ADVANCES IN EMERGING COMPUTING TECHNOLOGIES
Save
Is an excellent overview of data analytics, covering the key concepts and techniques used in the field. It would be a valuable addition to the course, as it would provide students with a strong foundation in the subject matter.
ADVANCES IN EMERGING COMPUTING TECHNOLOGIES
Paperback
Check
ADVANCES IN EMERGING COMPUTING TECHNOLOGIES
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Introduction to Linear Regression Analysis
Save
Provides a comprehensive introduction to data analysis using R. It would be a helpful resource for students who want to learn more about R and its applications in data analytics.
Introduction to Linear Regression Analysis (Wiley...
Hardcover
$$$
Introduction to Linear Regression Analysis
Hardcover
$$$$
Introduction to Linear Regression Analysis, 6e...
Paperback
$$
Introduction to Linear Regression Analysis
Hardcover
$$
Solutions Manual to accompany Introduction to...
Paperback
$$
Introduction to Linear Regression Analysis, 3rd...
Hardcover
$$$
Introduction to Linear Regression Analysis, 6e...
Kindle Edition
$$
Data Mining
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of data mining, covering the key concepts and techniques used in the field. It would be a valuable resource for students who want to learn more about data mining and its applications.
Data Mining: Concepts and Techniques (The Morgan...
Kindle Edition
$$$
Data Mining: Concepts and Techniques (The Morgan...
Hardcover
$$$
Data Mining: Concepts and Techniques, Second...
Hardcover
$$
Data Mining: Know It All
Hardcover
$$$
Machine Learning
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of machine learning, covering the key concepts and techniques used in the field. It would be a valuable resource for students who want to learn more about machine learning and its applications.
Machine Learning (McGraw-Hill International...
Paperback
$$$
Cover image
Data Science for Business
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of data science, covering the key concepts and techniques used in the field. It would be a valuable resource for students who want to learn more about data science and its applications.
Data Science for Business: What You Need to Know...
Paperback
$$
Data Science for Business: What You Need to Know...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Political Control of the Economy
Save
Provides a gentle introduction to data analytics, covering the key concepts and techniques used in the field. It would be a helpful resource for students who are new to data analytics and want to learn more about the subject.
Political Control of the Economy
Paperback
Check
Political Control of the Economy
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Applied Statistics and Probability for Engineers
Save
Provides a hands-on introduction to data analytics using R. It would be a useful resource for students who want to gain hands-on experience with R and its applications in data analytics.
Applied Statistics and Probability for Engineers,...
Kindle Edition
$$$$
Applied Statistics and Probability for Engineers
Loose Leaf
$$$$
Applied Statistics and Probability for Engineers
Hardcover
$$$$
Applied Statistics and Probability for Engineers
Paperback
$$$
Applied Statistics and Probability for Engineers
Hardcover
$$$
Applied Statistics and Probability for Engineers,...
Paperback
$$$$
Applied Statistics And Probability for Engineers
Hardcover
$$$
Applied Statistics and Probability for Engineers,...
Loose Leaf
$$$$
Applied Statistics and Probability for Engineers
Hardcover
$$$$
Applied Statistics and Probability for Engineers,...
Loose Leaf
$$$$
Cover image
A Gentle Introduction to Statistics Using SAS...
Save
Provides a hands-on introduction to data analytics using SAS. It would be a useful resource for students who want to gain hands-on experience with SAS and its applications in data analytics.
A Gentle Introduction to Statistics Using SAS...
Paperback
Check
A Gentle Introduction to Statistics Using SAS...
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
IBM SPSS Statistics 19 Advanced Statistical...
Save
Provides a hands-on introduction to data analytics using SPSS. It would be a useful resource for students who want to gain hands-on experience with SPSS and its applications in data analytics.
IBM SPSS Statistics 19 Advanced Statistical...
Paperback
Check
IBM SPSS Statistics 19 Advanced Statistical...
Kindle Edition
Check

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Similar courses

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Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
IBM
Instructor
Rav Ahuja
Language
English
Transcripts
Español Français Português Deutsch Italiano 中文 العربية 한국어 日本語 हिंदी Nederlands Svenska Pусский Türkçe Polski Ελληνικά українська мова magyar nyelv Bahasa Indonesia ไทย қазақша اُردُو, فارسی বাংলা tiếng Việt پښتو آذربایجان دیلی
Introduction to Data Analytics belongs to the following collections:
  1. IBM Data Analyst
  2. IBM Data Analyst
  3. IBM Data Analytics with Excel and R
  4. Data Analysis and Visualization Foundations
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Introduces potential data science career, roles, and responsibilities. Serves as a survey for the field for those unsure of what roles are available
Exposes beginners to foundational vocabulary, platforms, and tools for data analysis
Strong overview of essential concepts in data analysis, including gathering data, data cleaning and preparation, exploratory data analysis, data visualization, and storytelling
Well-structured and comprehensive, with a logical progression of topics and modules
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