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Working full time as a Data Analyst, I have observed the importance of fundamental knowledge when dealing with data from various sectors. With that in mind, this post aims to guide a beginner in data & analytics with the critical focus areas along with links, resources and templates for learning.
Topics Covered
What to Learn
Where to Learn
How to Learn (*Bonus: Study Template)
What to Learn
Excel for Data Analytics: Excel is the most powerful data tool globally. Learn Functions and Formulas, Conditional Formatting, Data Connectors, HLOOKUP/VLOOKUP, Power Query, and Advanced Reporting capabilities.
Data Fundamentals & Cloud Computing: Azure is Microsoft's leading cloud computing solution. Learn about data, data types, data storage for relational and non-relational data and data analytics
Databases and SQL Querying: After Learning Data Fundamentals, it is vital to speak databases! Learn to speak database —Creating and querying databases, data cleaning and manipulation, schema design, aggregations, stored procedures and entity diagrams.
Data Visualisation and Storytelling: Understanding your role as the bridge closing the gap between technical functions and data users. Learning a data visualisation tool (e.g. Microsoft Power BI) is essential to derive insightful information about the data. When dealing with data, explainability and interoperability are key. Learn data modelling, Data storytelling, reports, deployment and formatting.
Where to Learn in 100 Days (All free)
If you have researched data analytics resources, you can already tell that there are almost 1M resources out there ranging from beginner to advanced levels. My advice is to take the next 100 days to prioritise learning the fundamentals correctly. Allocate 2 -3 Learning hours daily. The truth is many data specialists become experts from projects and hands-on experience. Note: *All blue texts are links
Excel
Microsoft Documentation: here
Data Analytics in Excel: Youtube video
Power Query in Excel (optional at this stage): Youtube video
Data Fundamentals & Cloud Computing
The chosen cloud computing provider is Microsoft Azure because its documentation is extensive. The learning resources are free and easy to follow. You get a free exam voucher for attending one of the Microsoft Virtual Training Days.
Databases and SQL Querying
SQL is a primary programming language for querying databases. The goal at a fundamental level is to understand how to use SQL to an intermediate level. Note: There are many database offerings; I first learned about Microsoft SQL Server using these resources.
Introduction to MSSQL and SQL Querying: Udemy
Advanced Databases and SQL Querying: Udemy
Practical SQL Playlist (my favourite): Youtube
SQL tutorials start to finish: Mode.com
Database Management Essentials: Coursera/University of Colorado
Data Visualisations and Storytelling with Data
The goal here is to build an Analytics project using the data from the SQL tasks learnt in the Database and SQL Querying Lesson; consider this your first Data Analytics Project. Sample Dashboard: The Sales team of the Adventure Works Company requires an annual sales report focusing on sales of products by categories and subcategories. Build a Report in Power BI following this tutorial:
Get data from the data source
Clean data in power query
Create detailed analytics
Publishing to Power BI Service
Create an app and dashboard alert
How to Learn
Build a network:
Connect with data professionals: join or create a mastermind group – I recommend All About The Data. Have an accountability partner (AKA a tech buddy) that you share excellent opportunities, events and job postings, use #100DaysofData and follow the list on Twitter.
Document and share your journey: Create threads on Twitter and LinkedIn to showcase your learning progress. It is also a great way to connect with other beginners on the same journey. Post blockers too and ask open-ended questions about data.
Create a personal website to showcase your portfolio. Examples of websites to build a simple portfolio: Linktree, Milkshake App, Disha. I currently use wix.com. Ensure the scope of work and steps for achieving them are clear and concise.
Study Template
Although everyone learns differently, I have curated a Notion template of 100 days with tasks covering each of the four topics sequentially. NB: To access the template, duplicate the page. Watch this video to see how to navigate around the notion board. Link to Notion #100DaysofData Board
Thanks for reading!
Kindly hit the like button if you enjoyed this blog post or managed to scroll this far. Comment any questions or feedback you have along the way. I am available for fifteen-minute virtual sessions via social media or my get in touch form if you would like to talk more about getting started in the data & analytics field or any other questions about the resources provided. Have a fantastic day!