Course 2

qualitative data tools

* focus groups * social media text analysis * in-persion interviews

Quantitative data tools

* structured interviews * surveys * polls

Key skills for triumphant results

* your skills and knowledge will be the most important part of any analysis project * ask questions * experiment with many different possibilities * use both logic and creativity

Which of the following are examples of operators used in formulas? Select all that apply. -Hash (#) -Forward slash (/) -Hyphen (-) -Asterisk (*)

-Asterisk (*) -Forward slash (/) -Hyphen (-)

Your supervisor gives you a new data analysis project with unclear instructions, and you become frustrated trying to figure out how to proceed. Which actions you can take next demonstrate a responsibility to move the project forward? Select all that apply. -Find your supervisor in person so they can clearly observe how frustrated you are. -Do some additional research to better understand the context of the request. -Send your supervisor an email letting them know they did not explain the project well. -Schedule a time to ask your supervisor more questions about the big picture goals.

-Do some additional research to better understand the context of the request. -Schedule a time to ask your supervisor more questions about the big picture goals.

A data analyst has entered the analyze step of the data analysis process. Identify the questions they might ask during this phase. Select all that apply. -How will my data help me solve this problem? -What story is my data telling me? -How can I create an engaging presentation to stakeholders? -What is the question I'm trying to answer?

-How will my data help me solve this problem? -What story is my data telling me?

What are some strategies to ensure your data is accurate and fair? Select all that apply. -Use data that is very personal to you -Make sure you start with an accurate representation of the population in the sample -Collect the data in an objective way -Think through the "who, what, where, when, how, and why" of your data

-Make sure you start with an accurate representation of the population in the sample -Collect the data in an objective way -Think through the "who, what, where, when, how, and why" of your data

What are the key elements of structured thinking? Select all that apply. -Organizing available information -Implementing a solution -Recognizing the current problem or situation -Revealing gaps and opportunities in order to identify the options

-Organizing available information -Recognizing the current problem or situation -Revealing gaps and opportunities in order to identify the options

The customer-facing team does which of the following activities? Select all that apply. -Provide operational leadership for the company -Share customer feedback -Tell the data story to others -Compile information about customer expectations

-Share customer feedback -Compile information about customer expectations

Describe the key differences between small data and big data. Select all that apply. -Small data is typically stored in a database. Big data is typically stored in a spreadsheet. -Small data involves datasets concerned with a small number of specific metrics. Big data involves datasets that are larger and less specific. -Small data focuses on short, well-defined time periods. Big data focuses on change over a long period of time. -Small data is effective for analyzing day-to-day decisions. Big data is effective for analyzing more substantial decisions.

-Small data involves datasets concerned with a small number of specific metrics. Big data involves datasets that are larger and less specific. -Small data focuses on short, well-defined time periods. Big data focuses on change over a long period of time. -Small data is effective for analyzing day-to-day decisions. Big data is effective for analyzing more substantial decisions.

Data analysts pay attention to sample size in order to achieve what goals? Select all that apply. -To make sure the data represents a diverse set of perspectives -To make sure a few unusual responses don't skew results -To fully understand the scope of the analytics project -To avoid a small sample size leading to inaccurate judgements

-To make sure the data represents a diverse set of perspectives -To make sure a few unusual responses don't skew results -To avoid a small sample size leading to inaccurate judgements

Which of the following are ways that data analysts can add context to their data? Select all that apply. -Use descriptive column headers -Ask questions about the data -Consider where the data came from -Create reports for stakeholders

-Use descriptive column headers -Ask questions about the data -Consider where the data came from

What is an example of using a metric? Select all that apply. -Using column headers to sort and filter data -Using key performance indicators, such as click-through rates, to measure revenue -Using a pie chart to visualize data -Using annual profit targets to set and evaluate goals

-Using key performance indicators, such as click-through rates, to measure revenue -Using annual profit targets to set and evaluate goals

What is the correct spreadsheet formula for multiplying cell D5 times cell D7?

=D5*D7

You are working with spreadsheet data about a cross-country relay race. Each runner's times are located in cells H2 through H28. To find the runner with the slowest time, what is the correct function?

=MAX(H2:H28)

action-oriented

A data analyst uses the SMART methodology to create a question that encourages change. This type of question can be described how?

Which of the following examples describes using data to achieve business results? Select all that apply.

A large retailer performs data analysis on product purchases to create better promotions. A video streaming service analyzes user preferences to customize movie recommendations.

What do data analysts use to label the type of data contained in each column in a spreadsheet?

Attributes

Classifying or grouping items

Categorizing things is one of the six problem types data analysts solve. This type of problem might involve which of the following actions? Categorizing things involves classifying or grouping items in order to gain insights.

STEP 3 - PROCESS

Clean data is the best data and you will need to clean up your data to get rid of any possible errors, inaccuracies, or inconsistencies. This might mean: Using spreadsheet functions to find incorrectly entered data Using SQL functions to check for extra spaces Removing repeated entries Checking as much as possible for bias in the data Questions to ask yourself in this step: What data errors or inaccuracies might get in my way of getting the best possible answer to the problem I am trying to solve? How can I clean my data so the information I have is more consistent?

What are some strategies to ensure your data is accurate and fair? Select all that apply.

Collect the data in an objective way Make sure you start with an accurate representation of the population in the sample Think through the "who, what, where, when, how, and why" of your data

At an online marketplace, the _____ includes anyone in an organization who interacts with current or potential shoppers

Customer facing team

A data analyst is researching the buying behavior of people who shop at a company's retail store and those who might shop there in the future. During the analysis, it will be important to stay in communication with the team that most often interacts with these shoppers. What is the name of this team?

Customer-facing team

What is the term for the set of cells that a data analyst selects to include in a formula?

Data Range

Describe the difference between data and metrics.

Data is a collection of facts. Metrics are quantifiable data types used for measurement.

A director emails you asking for a report by the end of the week. This type of report takes at least 10 days to complete correctly. What is the best course of action?

Email the director and say that you would be happy to do that, but you believe it will take 10 days to get the information you need. Then, ask if you can discuss the possibility of a different timeline.

In a spreadsheet, a formula should always start with which of the following operators?

Equal sign =

STEP 5 - SHARE

Everyone shares their results differently so be sure to summarize your results with clear and enticing visuals of your analysis using data via tools like graphs or dashboards. This is your chance to show the stakeholders you have solved their problem and how you got there. Sharing will certainly help your team: Make better decisions Make more informed decisions Lead to stronger outcomes Successfully communicate your findings Questions to ask yourself in this step: How can I make what I present to the stakeholders engaging and easy to understand? What would help me understand this if I were the listener?

A data analyst has been invited to a meeting. They review the agenda and notice that their data analysis project is one of the topics that will be discussed. They plan to arrive on time and have a pen and paper to take notes. But they do not spend time considering project updates they could share or questions they may be asked. This is appropriate because they're not the one running the meeting.

False

A metric is a specific type of data that companies use to identify a problem domain.

False

TRUE or FALSE: A data analyst at a social media company is creating questions for a focus group. They use common abbreviations such as PLS for "please" and LMK for "let me know." This is fair because the participants use social media a lot and are likely to be technically savvy.

False

TRUE or FALSE: A team member has asked you to take on a task, and you don't understand the point of the project. It seems like it will be a waste of your time. The best course of action would be to politely explain your concerns and decline the project.

False

TRUE or FALSE: In data analytics, reports use live, incoming data from multiple datasets; dashboards use static collections of data.

False

TRUE or FALSE: The amount of exercise time it takes for a single person to burn a minimum of 400 calories is a problem that requires big data.

False

TRUE or FALSE: You're working on a data analysis project with a coworker, and the two of you disagree on what the data is telling you. Things get tense. The best course of action is to go to your supervisor and politely explain that your coworker is looking at the data incorrectly. Then, ask to work with a different coworker on future projects.

False

The amount of exercise time it takes for a single person to burn a minimum of 400 calories is a problem that requires big data.

False

To determine an organization's annual budget, a data analyst might use a slideshow.

False

TRUE or FALSE: In data analytics, a pattern is defined as a process or set of rules to be followed for a specific task.

False: Algorithm

TRUE or FALSE: To determine an organization's annual budget, a data analyst might use a slideshow

False: Spreadsheet

Identifying trends from historical data

Finding patterns is one of the six problem types data analysts aim to solve. This type of problem might involve which of the following? Finding patterns involves identifying trends from historical data.

Fill in the blank: In spreadsheets, data analysts begin _____ with an equal sign (=)

Formulas

Which of the following statements describes a key difference between formulas and functions? -Formulas contain words and numbers, and functions contain numbers only. -Formulas are used in graphs, and functions are not. -Formulas are written by the user, and functions are already defined. -Formulas span two or more cells, and functions exist in only one cell.

Formulas are written by the user, and functions are already defined

Which of the following statements describes a key difference between formulas and functions?

Formulas are written by the user, and functions are already defined.

What is the term for a preset command in a spreadsheet?

Function

Within a spreadsheet, data analysts use which tools to save time and effort by automating commands? Select all that apply.

Functions Formulas

The question, "Why was the Monday afternoon yoga class successful?" is not measurable. Which of the following questions presents a measurable way to learn about the yoga class?

How many customers responded to our half-priced yoga promotion.

qualitative data

In data analytics, _____ is subjective and and measures qualities and characteristics.

STEP 1 - ASK

It's impossible to solve a problem if you don't know what it is. These are some things to consider: Define the problem you're trying to solve Make sure you fully understand the stakeholder's expectations Focus on the actual problem and avoid any distractions Collaborate with stakeholders and keep an open line of communication Take a step back and see the whole situation in context Questions to ask yourself in this step: What are my stakeholders saying their problems are? Now that I've identified the issues, how can I help the stakeholders resolve their questions?

A data analyst is working for a local power company. Recently, many new apartments have been built in the community, so the company wants to determine how much electricity it needs to produce for the new residents in the future. A data analyst uses data to help the company make a more informed forecast. This is an example of which problem type?

Making Predictions

Which of the following options describes a metric goal? Select all that apply.

Measurable Evaluated using metrics

STEP 6 - ACT

Now it's time to act on your data. You will take everything you have learned from your data analysis and put it to use. This could mean providing your stakeholders with recommendations based on your findings so they can make data-driven decisions. Questions to ask yourself in this step: How can I use the feedback I received during the share phase (step 5) to actually meet the stakeholder's needs and expectations? These six steps can help you to break the data analysis process into smaller, manageable parts, which is called structured thinking. This process involves four basic activities: Recognizing the current problem or situation Organizing available information Revealing gaps and opportunities Identifying your options

Fill in the blank: A scope of work is an agreed-upon _____ of the work you're going to perform on a project.

Outline

Question 4 Fill in the blank: A _____ is a data-summarization tool used to sort, reorganize, group, count, total, or average data

Pivot Table

Return on Investment (ROI) uses which of the following metrics in its definition?

Profit and investment

The share phase of the data analysis process typically involves which of the following activities? Select all that apply.

Putting analysis into action to solve a problem X Summarizing results using data visualizations X Communicating findings X Creating a slideshow to present to stakeholders

What is the difference between qualitative and quantitative data?

Qualitative data can be used to measure qualities and characteristics. Quantitative data can be used to measure numerical facts.

What are the key elements of structured thinking? Select all that apply.

Recognizing the current problem or situation Organizing available information Revealing gaps and opportunities in order to identify the options

You receive an angry email from a colleague on the marketing team. The marketing colleague believes you have taken credit for their work. You do not believe this is true. Select the best course of action.

Reply to the email, asking if they can schedule a time to talk about this in person in order to allow both of you to share your perspectives.

The human resources director approaches a data analyst to propose a new data analysis project. The analyst has a lot of experience in human resources and believes the director is taking the wrong approach, and it will lead to some problems. Select the data analyst's best course of action.

Respectfully explain their viewpoints and offer the director some additional information to help improve the project.

Data analysts use which of the following functions to quickly perform calculations in a spreadsheet? Select all that apply.

SUM AVERAGE MIN

Describe the key differences between small data and big data. Select all that apply.

Small data focuses on short, well-defined time periods. Big data focuses on change over a long period of time. Small data is effective for analyzing day-to-day decisions. Big data is effective for analyzing more substantial decisions. Small data involves datasets concerned with a small number of specific metrics. Big data involves datasets that are larger and less specific.

As a data analyst, it's important to communicate often. Sharing detailed notes and creating reports are ways to communicate with the people who have invested time and resources in a project. Who are these people?

Stakeholders

A data analyst joins an online meeting on time. After reviewing the agenda, they see that their project comes at the very end. They're extremely busy and can use this time to stay on top of their current projects. How should they proceed?

Stay focused and attentive during the entire meeting. Even though some items on the agenda don't affect their projects, they could still learn something or have something to contribute.

Conflict is a natural part of working on a team. What are some ways to help shift a situation from problematic to productive? Select all that apply.

Take a moment to check your emotions before engaging in an argument. Reframe the question by asking, "How can I help?" Ask for a conversation to help you better understand the big picture.

A data analytics team is working on a project to measure the success of a company's new financial strategy. Select the person most likely to be the primary stakeholder for this project.

The VP of finance

Which of the following is an example of small data?

The number of steps someone walks in a day

Which of the following is an example of small data? -The total absences of all high school students -The trade deficit between two countries over a hundred years -The number of steps someone walks in a day -The bed occupancy rate for a hospital for the past decade

The number of steps someone walks in a day

In the function =MAX(A1:A12), what does A1:A12 represent?

The range

When giving a spreadsheet a title, what are some best practices to follow? Select all that apply.

Titles should state what the data in the spreadsheet is about * Titles should be short Titles should be clear

Structured thinking

To address a vague, complex problem, a data analyst breaks it down into smaller steps. They use a process to help them recognize the current problem or situation, organize available information, reveal gaps and opportunities, and identify options. What does this scenario describe?

Data analysts pay attention to sample size in order to achieve what goals? Select all that apply.

To make sure a few unusual responses don't skew results To make sure the data represents a diverse set of perspectives To avoid a small sample size leading to inaccurate judgements

A data analyst considers who, what, when, where, why, and how in order to achieve what goal?

To put information into context.

If someone is subjectively describing their feelings or emotions, it is qualitative data.

True

TRUE or FALSE: A data analyst is using data from a short time period to solve a problem related to someone's day-to-day decisions. They are most likely working with small data.

True

TRUE or FALSE: If someone is subjectively describing their feelings or emotions, it is qualitative data.

True

TRUE or FALSE: In a formula, the plus sign (+) is the operator for addition, and the hyphen (-) is the operator for subtraction.

True

TRUE or FALSE: Questions that make assumptions often involve concepts that are formed without evidence. An example of this is an idea that is accepted as true without proof.

True

A recycling center that sponsors a podcast about saving the environment is an example of what strategy

Trying to reach a target audience

Data-inspired decision-making deals with exploring different data sources to discover _____.

What the data has in common

Fill in the blank: Data-inspired decision-making can discover _____ when exploring different data sources.

What the data has in common

To communicate clearly with stakeholders and team members, there are four key questions data analysts ask themselves. One of them is: What does my audience need to know? Identify the remaining three questions. Select all that apply.

Who is my audience? What does my audience already know? How can I communicate effectively to my audience?

STEP 2 - PREPARE

You will decide what data you need to collect in order to answer your questions and how to organize it so that it is useful. You might use your business task to decide: What metrics to measure Locate data in your database Create security measures to protect that data Questions to ask yourself in this step: What do I need to figure out how to solve this problem? What research do I need to do?

STEP 4 - ANALYZE

You will want to think analytically about your data. At this stage, you might sort and format your data to make it easier to: Perform calculations Combine data from multiple sources Create tables with your results Questions to ask yourself in this step: What story is my data telling me? How will my data help me solve this problem? Who needs my company's product or service? What type of person is most likely to use it?

Fill in the bank: One goal of structured thinking is organizing the available information to reveal _____ and opportunities.

advantages X gaps applications connections

Fill in the blank: In data analytics, a process or set of rules to be followed for a specific task is _____.

an algorithm

Reports

are static collections of data.

Fill in the blank: Putting data into context helps data analysts eliminate_____.

bias

Data analysts can use _____ to highlight the area around cells in order to see spreadsheet data more clearly.

borders

A data analyst is using data to address a large-scale problem. This type of analysis would most likely require _____. Select all that apply.

data that reflects change over time big data

Small data

involves a small number of specific metrics over a shorter period of time. It's effective for analyzing day-to-day decisions.

Big Data

involves larger and less specific datasets and focuses on change over a long period of time. It's effective for analyzing more substantial decisions.

In data analytics, dashboards monitor data that is a continuous source of incoming information. Which of the following terms describes this type of data? 1 / 1 point

live

dashboards

monitor live, incoming data from multiple datasets and organize the information into one central location.

Return on investment compares the cost of an investment to the _____ of that investment.

net profit

A scope of work is an agreed-upon _____ of the work you're going to perform on a project.

outline

A _____ is a data-summarization tool used to sort, reorganize, group, count, total, or average data.

pivot table

A data analytics team is working on a project to measure the success of a company's new financial strategy. The vice president of finance is most likely to be the _____.

primary stakeholder

If a data analyst is measuring qualities and characteristics, they are considering _____ data.

qualitative

Fill in the blank: Pivot tables in data processing tools are used to _____ data

summarize

Operators

symbols used in formulas, including + (addition), - (subtraction), * (multiplication), and / (division).