Key data analyst tools
As you are learning, the most common programs and solutions used by data
analysts include spreadsheets, query languages, and visualization tools. In this
reading, you will learn more about each one. You will cover when to use them,
and why they are so important in data analytics.
Spreadsheets
Data analysts rely on spreadsheets to collect and organize data. Two popular
spreadsheet applications you will probably use a lot in your future role as a data
analyst are Microsoft Excel and Google Sheets.
Spreadsheets structure data in a meaningful way by letting you
Collect, store, organize, and sort information
Identify patterns and piece the data together in a way that works for each
specific data project
Create excellent data visualizations, like graphs and charts.
Databases and query languages
A database is a collection of structured data stored in a computer system. Some
popular Structured Query Language (SQL) programs include MySQL, Microsoft
SQL Server, and BigQuery.
Query languages
Allow analysts to isolate specific information from a database(s)
Make it easier for you to learn and understand the requests made to
databases
Allow analysts to select, create, add, or download data from a database
for analysis
Visualization tools
Data analysts use a number of visualization tools, like graphs, maps, tables,
charts, and more. Two popular visualization tools are Tableau and Looker.
These tools
Turn complex numbers into a story that people can understand
Help stakeholders come up with conclusions that lead to informed
decisions and effective business strategies
Have multiple features
- Tableau's simple drag-and-drop feature lets users create interactive graphs in
dashboards and
worksheets
- Looker communicates directly with a database, allowing you to connect your
data right to the visual
tool you choose
A career as a data analyst also involves using programming languages, like R
and Python, which are used a lot for statistical analysis, visualization, and other
data analysis.
Key takeaway
You have a lot of tools as a data analyst. This is a first glance at the
possibilities, and you will explore many of these tools in-depth throughout this
program.
