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Visualizing Data in the Tidyverse

Carrie Wright, PhD, Shannon Ellis, PhD, Stephanie Hicks, PhD, and Roger D. Peng, PhD

Data visualization is a critical part of any data science project. Once data have been imported and wrangled into place, visualizing your data can help you get a handle on what’s going on in the data set. Similarly, once you’ve completed your analysis and are ready to present your findings, data visualizations are a highly effective way to communicate your results to others. In this course we will cover what data visualization is and define some of the basic types of data visualizations.

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Data visualization is a critical part of any data science project. Once data have been imported and wrangled into place, visualizing your data can help you get a handle on what’s going on in the data set. Similarly, once you’ve completed your analysis and are ready to present your findings, data visualizations are a highly effective way to communicate your results to others. In this course we will cover what data visualization is and define some of the basic types of data visualizations.

In this course you will learn about the ggplot2 R package, a powerful set of tools for making stunning data graphics that has become the industry standard. You will learn about different types of plots, how to construct effect plots, and what makes for a successful or unsuccessful visualization.

In this specialization we assume familiarity with the R programming language. If you are not yet familiar with R, we suggest you first complete R Programming before returning to complete this course.

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What's inside

Syllabus

About This Course
Data visualization is a critical part of any data science project. Once data have been imported and wrangled into place, visualizing your data can help you get a handle on what’s going on in the dataset. Similarly, once you’ve completed your analysis and are ready to present your findings, data visualizations are a highly effective way to communicate your results to others.
Read more

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Designed for those with beginner to intermediate knowledge of R programming
Provides guidance for creating stunning data visualizations
Teaches the industry-standard ggplot2 R package
Covers basic to advanced concepts, including plot customization and extensions
Instructors are recognized for their expertise in data visualization
Requires familiarity with the R programming language

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Reviews summary

Mastering tidyverse data visualization with ggplot2

According to learners, this course offers a comprehensive and practical introduction to data visualization using R's ggplot2 package within the Tidyverse ecosystem. Students widely praise the instructor's clear explanations and the hands-on approach, especially through well-designed labs and projects that solidify understanding. The course is considered highly beneficial for career-focused individuals seeking to enhance their data visualization skills for professional applications. However, some learners with limited prior experience in R found the assumed R programming prerequisite to be a significant challenge, requiring additional self-study. A few also noted a desire for more advanced topics or interactive visualization techniques beyond the core material.
Generally current, with potential for minor updates.
"The course material feels current and relevant to modern data visualization practices in R."
"It uses the tidyverse consistently, which is a great approach and demonstrates modern R workflows."
"I noticed a few minor elements that could be updated, but overall, it provides highly relevant skills for today's data roles."
Strong focus on hands-on practice with valuable projects.
"The project-based learning and practical exercises were crucial; I learned so much by actively coding and seeing the results."
"I appreciated how much hands-on practice there was with real datasets, which is exactly what I needed for my work."
"The case studies allowed me to apply what I learned and see how visualizations contribute to understanding data in practical scenarios."
The instructor's explanations are highly clear and effective.
"The instructor clearly explains the concepts behind ggplot2 and the tidyverse, making it easy to follow even for complex ideas."
"I found the explanations of the grammar of graphics particularly insightful and well-articulated, truly a highlight of the course."
"Lectures were concise and the code demonstrations really helped me grasp the visualization techniques covered."
Good foundation, but some desire more advanced topics.
"It provides a great foundation, but I was hoping for more advanced ggplot2 techniques or perhaps interactive visualization libraries."
"The course is comprehensive for basics, yet I felt it could expand on more complex customization or specific plot types."
"While the content is solid, I would have liked to see a module on extending ggplot2 for more specialized or animated graphs."
Requires solid R background; not for true beginners in R.
"I struggled a bit because my R programming wasn't as strong as assumed; I had to spend extra time catching up on R basics."
"While the course states an R prerequisite, I found it challenging if you are not already comfortable with data manipulation in R."
"I wish it had been clearer how much R knowledge was truly necessary; I felt slightly underprepared despite some prior R exposure."

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 Visualizing Data in the Tidyverse with these activities:
Review Basic R Programming Concepts
A solid foundation in R programming is crucial for success in this course. This activity provides an opportunity to refresh your knowledge of essential R concepts, ensuring that you are well-prepared for the upcoming lessons.
Browse courses on R Programming
Show steps
  • Review online tutorials or documentation on basic R programming
  • Practice writing simple R scripts to manipulate data
  • Seek help from classmates or online forums if needed
Organize and Review Course Materials
Staying organized and reviewing materials regularly is essential for effective learning. This activity encourages you to compile and review the course materials to enhance your understanding and retention.
Show steps
  • Create a dedicated folder or notebook for the course
  • Organize the materials by topic or week
  • Review the materials regularly, taking notes and highlighting important concepts
Connect with Experienced Data Visualization Practitioners
Seeking guidance from experienced professionals can accelerate your learning and provide valuable insights. This activity encourages you to reach out to data visualization experts who can offer support and advice.
Show steps
  • Attend industry events or online meetups related to data visualization
  • Join online communities and forums dedicated to data visualization
  • Reach out to individuals whose work you admire and request guidance
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Learn about ggplot2 Fundamentals on Coursera
This tutorial will help you grasp the basics of ggplot2, a powerful data visualization library in R, which will be essential for creating informative and visually appealing data visualizations throughout the course.
Browse courses on Ggplot2
Show steps
  • Enroll in the Coursera course 'Data Visualization with ggplot2'
  • Watch the video lectures and complete the hands-on exercises
  • Practice creating different types of plots using ggplot2
Build a Data Visualization Resource Kit
Creating a compilation of resources will provide you with a valuable reference tool throughout the course and beyond. This activity encourages you to gather and organize a collection of articles, tutorials, and tools related to data visualization.
Show steps
  • Identify and collect resources that cover various aspects of data visualization
  • Organize the resources into categories or topics
  • Create a document or online repository to store and share the resource kit
Practice Creating Data Visualizations with ggplot2
Regular practice is crucial for mastering data visualization techniques. This activity provides ample opportunities to apply your ggplot2 knowledge and refine your skills.
Show steps
  • Find a dataset that interests you and import it into R
  • Use ggplot2 to create various types of plots, such as scatterplots, histograms, and bar charts
  • Experiment with different aesthetics and customizations to enhance the visual appeal of your plots
  • Share your visualizations with others and seek feedback
Attend a Data Visualization Workshop
Workshops provide an immersive and interactive learning experience. Participating in a data visualization workshop will allow you to learn from experts, network with peers, and enhance your skills in a hands-on environment.
Show steps
  • Research and identify data visualization workshops that align with your interests
  • Register and attend the workshop
  • Actively participate in the exercises and discussions
  • Follow up with the workshop organizers or attendees to continue learning

Career center

Learners who complete Visualizing Data in the Tidyverse will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Data Analyst
A Data Analyst is a professional who uses data to solve business problems. They collect, clean, and analyze data to identify trends and patterns. Data Analysts use their findings to make recommendations to businesses on how to improve their operations. This course can help you become a Data Analyst by teaching you the skills you need to collect, clean, and analyze data. You will also learn how to use data visualization tools to communicate your findings to others.
See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst
Data Scientist
A Data Scientist is a professional who uses data to build predictive models. They use these models to help businesses make better decisions. Data Scientists use a variety of statistical and machine learning techniques to build their models. This course can help you become a Data Scientist by teaching you the skills you need to collect, clean, and analyze data. You will also learn how to use data visualization tools to communicate your findings to others.
See salaries and explore the career path for Data Scientist
Statistician
A Statistician is a professional who uses data to make inferences about the world. They use statistical methods to analyze data and draw conclusions about the population from which the data was collected. Statisticians work in a variety of fields, including healthcare, finance, and education. This course can help you become a Statistician by teaching you the skills you need to collect, clean, and analyze data. You will also learn how to use data visualization tools to communicate your findings to others.
See salaries and explore the career path for Statistician
Business Intelligence Analyst
A Business Intelligence Analyst is a professional who uses data to help businesses make better decisions. They analyze data to identify trends and patterns, and they use this information to make recommendations to businesses on how to improve their operations. This course can help you become a Business Intelligence Analyst by teaching you the skills you need to collect, clean, and analyze data. You will also learn how to use data visualization tools to communicate your findings to others.
See salaries and explore the career path for Business Intelligence Analyst
Data Engineer
A Data Engineer is a professional who designs and builds data systems. They work with data scientists and other professionals to ensure that data is stored, processed, and analyzed efficiently. Data Engineers use a variety of programming languages and tools to build their systems. This course can help you become a Data Engineer by teaching you the skills you need to collect, clean, and analyze data. You will also learn how to use data visualization tools to communicate your findings to others.
See salaries and explore the career path for Data Engineer
Financial Analyst
A Financial Analyst is a professional who analyzes financial data to make investment recommendations. They use a variety of financial metrics and models to evaluate the performance of companies and make recommendations on whether to buy, sell, or hold stocks. This course can help you become a Financial Analyst by teaching you the skills you need to collect, clean, and analyze data. You will also learn how to use data visualization tools to communicate your findings to others.
See salaries and explore the career path for Financial Analyst
Market Researcher
A Market Researcher is a professional who conducts research to understand the needs and wants of consumers. They use a variety of research methods, including surveys, focus groups, and interviews. Market Researchers use their findings to help businesses develop new products and services. This course can help you become a Market Researcher by teaching you the skills you need to collect, clean, and analyze data. You will also learn how to use data visualization tools to communicate your findings to others.
See salaries and explore the career path for Market Researcher
Operations Research Analyst
An Operations Research Analyst is a professional who uses mathematical models to solve business problems. They use a variety of techniques, including optimization, simulation, and regression analysis. Operations Research Analysts work in a variety of industries, including healthcare, finance, and manufacturing. This course can help you become an Operations Research Analyst by teaching you the skills you need to collect, clean, and analyze data. You will also learn how to use data visualization tools to communicate your findings to others.
See salaries and explore the career path for Operations Research Analyst
Product Manager
A Product Manager is a professional who is responsible for the development and launch of new products. They work with engineers, designers, and marketers to bring new products to market. Product Managers use a variety of data analysis techniques to track the progress of their products and make decisions about how to improve them. This course can help you become a Product Manager by teaching you the skills you need to collect, clean, and analyze data. You will also learn how to use data visualization tools to communicate your findings to others.
See salaries and explore the career path for Product Manager
Quantitative Analyst
A Quantitative Analyst is a professional who uses mathematical and statistical models to analyze financial data. They use their findings to make investment recommendations and develop trading strategies. Quantitative Analysts work in a variety of financial institutions, including hedge funds, investment banks, and asset management companies. This course can help you become a Quantitative Analyst by teaching you the skills you need to collect, clean, and analyze data. You will also learn how to use data visualization tools to communicate your findings to others.
See salaries and explore the career path for Quantitative Analyst
Software Engineer
A Software Engineer is a professional who designs, develops, and maintains software systems. They work with a variety of programming languages and tools to build software that meets the needs of users. Software Engineers use a variety of data analysis techniques to track the performance of their software and make decisions about how to improve it. This course can help you become a Software Engineer by teaching you the skills you need to collect, clean, and analyze data. You will also learn how to use data visualization tools to communicate your findings to others.
See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer
Data Journalist
A Data Journalist is a professional who uses data to tell stories. They use a variety of data analysis techniques to find insights in data and then use those insights to write articles, blog posts, and other forms of content. Data Journalists work in a variety of media outlets, including newspapers, magazines, and online news organizations. This course can help you become a Data Journalist by teaching you the skills you need to collect, clean, and analyze data. You will also learn how to use data visualization tools to communicate your findings to others.
See salaries and explore the career path for Data Journalist
Web Analyst
A Web Analyst is a professional who analyzes data to improve the performance of websites. They use a variety of data analysis techniques to track the traffic to a website and identify areas for improvement. Web Analysts work in a variety of industries, including e-commerce, marketing, and advertising. This course can help you become a Web Analyst by teaching you the skills you need to collect, clean, and analyze data. You will also learn how to use data visualization tools to communicate your findings to others.
See salaries and explore the career path for Web Analyst
Data Architect
A Data Architect is a professional who designs and manages data systems. They work with data engineers and other professionals to ensure that data is stored, processed, and analyzed efficiently. Data Architects use a variety of data analysis techniques to track the performance of their systems and make decisions about how to improve them. This course can help you become a Data Architect by teaching you the skills you need to collect, clean, and analyze data. You will also learn how to use data visualization tools to communicate your findings to others.
See salaries and explore the career path for Data Architect
Database Administrator
A Database Administrator is a professional who manages and maintains databases. They work with a variety of database technologies to ensure that data is stored, processed, and analyzed efficiently. Database Administrators use a variety of data analysis techniques to track the performance of their databases and make decisions about how to improve them. This course can help you become a Database Administrator by teaching you the skills you need to collect, clean, and analyze data. You will also learn how to use data visualization tools to communicate your findings to others.
See salaries and explore the career path for Database Administrator

Reading list

We've selected 11 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 Visualizing Data in the Tidyverse.
Cover image
Advanced R, Second Edition
Save
Comprehensive guide to ggplot2, a popular R package for data visualization. It covers all aspects of ggplot2, from the basics to advanced techniques. It must-read for anyone who wants to use ggplot2 to create stunning data visualizations.
Advanced R, Second Edition (Chapman & Hall/CRC The...
Paperback
$$$
Advanced R, Second Edition (Chapman & Hall/CRC The...
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
Beautiful Evidence
Save
Classic work on data visualization. It covers the principles of effective data visualization, as well as a wide range of examples. It must-read for anyone who wants to understand the foundations of data visualization.
Beautiful Evidence
Hardcover
$$
Cover image
The Grammar of Graphics
Save
Classic work on data visualization. It introduces the grammar of graphics, a set of principles that can be used to create effective and informative visualizations. It must-read for anyone who wants to understand the foundations of data visualization.
The Grammar of Graphics (Statistics and Computing)
Hardcover
$$$$
The Grammar of Graphics (Statistics and Computing)...
Paperback Bunko
$$$$
The Grammar of Graphics (Statistics and Computing)...
Hardcover
$$$$
The Grammar of Graphics (Lecture Notes in...
Paperback
$$$
The Grammar of Graphics (Statistics and Computing)
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
Information Dashboard Design
Save
Guide to creating effective data visualizations. It covers the principles of effective data visualization, as well as a wide range of examples. It good resource for those who want to learn how to create data visualizations that are both informative and visually appealing.
Information Dashboard Design: Displaying Data for...
Hardcover
$$
Information Dashboard Design: The Effective Visual...
Paperback
$$
Cover image
Data Visualization
Save
Provides a practical introduction to data visualization, covering the basics of creating effective and informative visualizations. It good resource for those who are new to data visualization or who want to improve their skills.
Data Visualization: A Successful Design Process: A...
Paperback
$
Data Visualization: Representing Information on...
Kindle Edition
$$$
Data Visualization Design and Utilization (Korean...
Paperback
$$$
Cover image
Daphne Draws Data
Save
Guide to using data to tell stories. It covers the basics of data storytelling, as well as more advanced techniques. It good resource for those who want to learn how to use data to communicate effectively.
Daphne Draws Data: A Storytelling with Data...
Hardcover
$$
Cover image
R Packages
Save
Guide to using R to create data visualizations. It covers the basics of data visualization, as well as more advanced techniques. It good resource for those who want to learn how to use R to create stunning data visualizations.
R Packages
Paperback
Check
R Packages
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Python Data Science Handbook
Save
Guide to using Python to create data visualizations. It covers the basics of data visualization, as well as more advanced techniques. It good resource for those who want to learn how to use Python to create stunning data visualizations.
Python Data Science Handbook: Essential Tools for...
Paperback
$$$
Cover image
Interactive Data Visualization for the Web
Save
Guide to using JavaScript to create data visualizations. It covers the basics of data visualization, as well as more advanced techniques. It good resource for those who want to learn how to use JavaScript to create stunning data visualizations.
Interactive Data Visualization for the Web: An...
Paperback
$$
Interactive Data Visualization for the Web: An...
Paperback
$$
(中文) 数据可视化实战:使用D3设计交互式图表 (图灵程序设计丛书 23) (Chinese Edition)
Kindle Edition
$
Cover image
Data Visualization Made Simple
Save
Simple guide to data visualization. It covers the basics of creating effective and informative visualizations. It good resource for those who are new to data visualization or who want to improve their skills.
Data Visualization Made Simple
Paperback
Check
Data Visualization Made Simple
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Introducing Public Administration
Save
Quick start guide to Power BI, a powerful data visualization tool from Microsoft. It covers the basics of Power BI, as well as more advanced techniques. It good resource for those who want to get started with Power BI quickly.
Introducing Public Administration
Paperback
$$$$
Introducing Public Administration
Paperback
$$$$
Introducing Public Administration (8th Edition)
Paperback
$$
Introducing Public Administration (7th Edition)
Hardcover
$$
MySearchLab with eText -- Standalone Access Card --...
Misc. Supplies
$$$
Introducing Public Administration
Kindle Edition
$$$$

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Effort
4 weeks of study, 4-8 hours/week
Via
Coursera
Institution
Johns Hopkins University
Instructors
Carrie Wright, PhD
Shannon Ellis, PhD
Stephanie Hicks, PhD
Roger D. Peng, PhD
Language
English
This course belongs to a collection called Tidyverse Skills for Data Science in R. It's comprised of five courses:
  1. Modeling Data in the Tidyverse
  2. Wrangling Data in the Tidyverse
  3. Importing Data in the Tidyverse
  4. Visualizing Data in the Tidyverse (viewing)
  5. Introduction to the Tidyverse
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Designed for those with beginner to intermediate knowledge of R programming
Provides guidance for creating stunning data visualizations
Teaches the industry-standard ggplot2 R package
Covers basic to advanced concepts, including plot customization and extensions
Instructors are recognized for their expertise in data visualization
Requires familiarity with the R programming language
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