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Intro to Statistics

Take Udacity's free Intro to Statistics course and learn techniques for visualizing relationships in data and understanding relationships using mathematics. Learn with Udacity.

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What's inside

Syllabus

1. Teaser

2. Looking at Data

3. Scatter Plots

4. Bar Charts

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what should give you pause

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Teaches data visualization, probability, and statistical inference, which is essential for careers in data analytics, data science, and machine learning

Taught by Sebastian Thrun, a renowned expert in artificial intelligence and robotics

Develops core skills and knowledge in statistics, which is applicable to fields ranging from business to psychology

Provides hands-on practice with programming in optional modules, enhancing the learning experience

Covers a wide range of topics, providing a comprehensive foundation in statistics

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Reviews summary

Foundational statistics for beginners

According to students, this course offers a solid introductory foundation in statistics, proving especially valuable for beginners. Reviewers often highlight the clear and accessible lectures that simplify complex ideas. The optional programming sections are noted as a helpful practical addition. While the overall pace is generally good, some mention that later topics can feel somewhat rushed or could benefit from greater depth, occasionally requiring external materials. The problem sets are described as challenging yet effective for reinforcing learning. The inclusion of real-world case studies is also appreciated.

Mixed views on speed and coverage depth.

"Decent intro, but definitely requires supplementary material."

"The material felt rushed at times, especially later modules. While the early visualization parts were good, the probability and inference sections were hard to follow."

"Could be more rigorous."

"While the overall pace is generally good, some mention that later topics can feel somewhat rushed or could benefit from greater depth."

Case studies link concepts to practice.

"I appreciated the case studies which showed real-world applications."

"The case studies help see how the concepts apply."

Helpful coding exercises for practical skill.

"The optional programming exercises in Python were a great bonus and helped solidify the concepts."

"The optional programming was a nice touch for those wanting to code."

"The programming parts are helpful if you like coding, but not essential to pass."

Concepts explained well for beginners.

"The lectures are clear and concise, covering all the basics needed to build a solid foundation."

"Fantastically clear explanation of core statistical concepts. I loved how they broke down complex ideas into simple steps."

"The content is explained with great clarity. Highly recommend."

"Good overview of introductory statistics. The instructor explains concepts well..."

"As someone new to statistics, I found this course provided a good starting point. The lectures are well-structured."

Problem sets can be challenging or confusing.

"Some problem sets were a bit confusing, and I needed outside resources to fully grasp them."

"Assignments didn't always match lecture difficulty."

"The problem sets made me think."

"Assignments were challenging but fair."

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 Intro to Statistics with these activities:

Probability Refresher

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Review basic probability concepts to ensure a strong foundation for the course.

Browse courses on Probability

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Review notes from previous probability courses.
Solve practice problems to refresh understanding.

Review of Introduction to Probability Models

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Review a foundational book on probability models to strengthen understanding of concepts covered in the course.

View Introduction to Probability Models on Amazon

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Read assigned chapters and take notes.
Complete practice problems at the end of each chapter.
Summarize key concepts and formulas.

Compile a Study Guide

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Create a comprehensive study guide to consolidate and reinforce learning.

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Gather notes, assignments, and practice problems.
Organize and summarize the material.
Review the study guide regularly.

Five other activities

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Study Group Discussions

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Engage in discussions with peers to clarify concepts and reinforce understanding.

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Form a study group with classmates.
Meet regularly to discuss course material.
Take turns presenting concepts and leading discussions.

Correlation vs. Causation Tutorial

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Complete tutorials to better understand the difference between correlation and causation.

Browse courses on Probability

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Find a reputable tutorial on correlation vs. causation.
Watch the tutorial and take notes.
Summarize the key points of the tutorial.

Manipulating Normals Problems

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Solve problems to better understand the concept of manipulating normal distributions.

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Review notes and textbook on manipulating normal distributions.
Solve at least 10 practice problems.
Check answers and identify areas for improvement.

Data Visualization Dashboard

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Create a data visualization dashboard to display and analyze data related to the course topics.

Browse courses on Data Visualization

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Gather data from relevant sources.
Choose appropriate data visualization techniques.
Create the dashboard using a data visualization tool.
Analyze the data and draw insights.
Present the dashboard to peers or instructors for feedback.

Contribute to a Data Science Open Source Project

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Contribute to an open-source data science project to apply and enhance skills learned in the course.

Browse courses on Data Science

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Identify an open-source data science project.
Review the project's documentation and codebase.
Identify an area where you can contribute.
Make a pull request with your contribution.
Get feedback from the project maintainers and make necessary revisions.

Career center

Learners who complete Intro to Statistics will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Data Analyst

A Data Analyst takes raw data from companies and organizations and turns it into usable information. This role involves cleaning data to eliminate errors, using statistical methods to find patterns and trends, and presenting data in graphs, charts, and other visualizations. An Intro to Statistics course can help build a foundation for a career as a Data Analyst. This course teaches techniques for visualizing relationships in data and understanding relationships using mathematics, both of which are essential for success in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst

Data Scientist

Data Scientists use programming and statistical methods to analyze and interpret data. They build models to predict future events and create visualizations to communicate their findings. An Intro to Statistics course can be helpful for a career as a Data Scientist. This course teaches techniques for visualizing relationships in data and understanding relationships using mathematics, both of which are essential for success in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Scientist

Financial Analyst

Financial Analysts use statistical methods to analyze financial data and make recommendations for investments. They also develop financial models to forecast future performance. An Intro to Statistics course can help build a foundation for a career as a Financial Analyst. This course teaches techniques for visualizing relationships in data and understanding relationships using mathematics, both of which are essential for success in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Financial Analyst

Market Researcher

Market Researchers use statistical methods to collect and analyze data about consumers and markets. They use this information to develop marketing strategies and campaigns. An Intro to Statistics course can help build a foundation for a career as a Market Researcher. This course teaches techniques for visualizing relationships in data and understanding relationships using mathematics, both of which are essential for success in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Market Researcher

Operations Research Analyst

Operations Research Analysts use mathematical and statistical methods to improve the efficiency of business operations. They analyze data, develop models, and make recommendations for improvements. An Intro to Statistics course can help build a foundation for a career as an Operations Research Analyst. This course teaches techniques for visualizing relationships in data and understanding relationships using mathematics, both of which are essential for success in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Operations Research Analyst

Quantitative Analyst

Quantitative Analysts use statistical methods to analyze financial data and make investment decisions. They develop models to predict future performance and risk. An Intro to Statistics course can help build a foundation for a career as a Quantitative Analyst. This course teaches techniques for visualizing relationships in data and understanding relationships using mathematics, both of which are essential for success in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Quantitative Analyst

Risk Analyst

Risk Analysts use statistical methods to analyze data and identify potential risks. They develop models to assess the likelihood and impact of risks and make recommendations for mitigation. An Intro to Statistics course can help build a foundation for a career as a Risk Analyst. This course teaches techniques for visualizing relationships in data and understanding relationships using mathematics, both of which are essential for success in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Risk Analyst

Statistician

Statisticians use statistical methods to collect, analyze, and interpret data. They work in a variety of fields, including healthcare, finance, and education. An Intro to Statistics course can help build a foundation for a career as a Statistician. This course teaches techniques for visualizing relationships in data and understanding relationships using mathematics, both of which are essential for success in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Statistician

Business Analyst

Business Analysts use data to identify and solve business problems. They work with stakeholders to gather requirements, analyze data, and develop recommendations. An Intro to Statistics course can be helpful for a career as a Business Analyst. This course teaches techniques for visualizing relationships in data and understanding relationships using mathematics, both of which are essential for success in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Business Analyst

Data Engineer

Data Engineers design and build systems to store, process, and analyze data. They work with data scientists and other stakeholders to ensure that data is available and usable. An Intro to Statistics course may be helpful for a career as a Data Engineer. This course teaches techniques for visualizing relationships in data and understanding relationships using mathematics, both of which can be useful in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Engineer

Machine Learning Engineer

Machine Learning Engineers build and deploy machine learning models. They work with data scientists to identify and solve business problems using machine learning. An Intro to Statistics course may be helpful for a career as a Machine Learning Engineer. This course teaches techniques for visualizing relationships in data and understanding relationships using mathematics, both of which can be useful in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Machine Learning Engineer

Product Manager

Product Managers are responsible for the development and launch of new products. They work with engineers, designers, and marketers to bring products to market. An Intro to Statistics course may be helpful for a career as a Product Manager. This course teaches techniques for visualizing relationships in data and understanding relationships using mathematics, both of which can be useful in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Product Manager

Software Engineer

Software Engineers design, develop, and test software. They work with users to gather requirements and develop solutions. An Intro to Statistics course may be helpful for a career as a Software Engineer. This course teaches techniques for visualizing relationships in data and understanding relationships using mathematics, both of which can be useful in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer

Actuary

Actuaries use statistical methods to assess and manage risk. They work with insurance companies and other financial institutions to develop products and services. An Intro to Statistics course can help build a foundation for a career as an Actuary. This course teaches techniques for visualizing relationships in data and understanding relationships using mathematics, both of which are essential for success in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Actuary

Epidemiologist

Epidemiologists study the distribution and determinants of health-related states or events in specified populations. They use statistical methods to analyze data and identify risk factors for disease. An Intro to Statistics course can help build a foundation for a career as an Epidemiologist. This course teaches techniques for visualizing relationships in data and understanding relationships using mathematics, both of which are essential for success in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Epidemiologist

Reading list

We've selected 14 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 Intro to Statistics.

Introduction to Statistical Investigations

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This textbook offers a comprehensive and approachable introduction to statistics, covering essential topics such as data analysis, probability, and inference.

Introduction to Statistical Investigations

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Introduction to Statistical Investigations, Binder...

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Introduction to Statistical Investigations, 1e...

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