Coding is a valuable skill that is highly sought after by many companies within the data ecosystem and beyond. But a lot of Data Analysts struggle with coding, especially beginners.
I have had the privilege of being able to code before I took the Data Analytics path, this makes it very easy for me to write code for Data Analysis purposes.
I have been able to code my own custom functions to use in Excel and Google Sheets. So, if you ever wondered if coding is necessary for data analytics, here are some highlights.
DO DATA ANALYSTS CODE?
Yes, most Data Analysts code as part of their day-to-day job. Coding allows data analysts to work with large datasets, automate processes, and perform complex analyses.
Some of the popular tools used by data analysts include
Spreadsheet tools like MS Excel or Google Sheets.
Programming languages like Python, R, or Julia.
and Business Intelligence tools like Power BI, Tableau, or Looker.
Some of these tools require coding while others do not. For example, coding is required to use VBA in Excel for more advanced analysis and automation.
Similarly, coding is required to extend the functionality of Google Sheets using Javascript in Apps Script.
Coding is also required to use DAX in Power BI to make custom functions.
Data analysts may use coding to perform tasks such as data cleaning and transformation, data visualization, statistical analysis, and machine learning.
They may also use code to develop reports and dashboards to communicate insights and findings to stakeholders.
For example, I made a video on how to use Python (Matplotlib) to make a bar chart. It only required a few lines of code and it is very easy to understand.
CAN YOU BECOME A DATA ANALYST IF YOU HATE CODING?
Yes, you can become a data analyst even if you hate coding. While coding is an important skill for a data analyst, it is not the only skill required.
A data analyst must also have strong analytical and problem-solving skills, as well as the ability to communicate findings effectively to others.
Not all data analysts need to be proficient in coding. Some data analysts may use specialized software that does not require coding like Excel, Google Sheets, Minitab, JMP, Power BI, Tableau, etc.
If you do not enjoy coding, you may still be able to become a data analyst by focusing on other areas of the field.
For example, you may be able to specialize in data visualization or data reporting, which do not require as much coding expertise.
It is worth noting that even if you don’t want to become a coding expert, it’s helpful to learn the basics of coding languages like SQL.
I have written a full article on my blog on “Do Data Analysts Code”, you can learn more from there.
EXCEL COURSE PROGRESS
I have finished recording the Excel course and I am now editing it. I am hoping it should be ready by late next week.
FREE SPREADSHEETS TEMPLATES
I Have a lot of free spreadsheet Templates for Excel and Google Sheets that you can use for various projects. I will keep adding more with time.
You can get these spreadsheets here on my store
You can also check these out for more resources.
Let’s keep the conversation going in the comments.
Until next time