Data Analysis Essentials – 3 Months

Data Analysis Essentials: Tools and Techniques for Every Analyst

Course Content Overview
This course aims to provide participants with essential skills in data analysis using three powerful tools: Microsoft Excel, Power BI, and CompTIA Data+. The curriculum is designed to offer a balanced mix of theory, practical application, and certification preparation, ensuring that participants can effectively analyze and visualize data.

Module 1: Introduction to Data Analysis
• Overview of Data Analysis
• Importance and applications in various industries
• Key concepts and terminology
• Data Types and Sources
• Structured vs. unstructured data
• Common data sources (databases, spreadsheets, APIs)

Module 2: Microsoft Excel for Data Analysis
• Excel Basics
• Interface overview
• Data entry and formatting
• Data Manipulation
• Sorting and filtering data
• Using formulas and functions (SUM, AVERAGE, VLOOKUP, etc.)
• Data Visualization
• Creating charts and graphs
• Using PivotTables and PivotCharts
• Advanced Excel Techniques
• Data cleaning and validation
• Introduction to Excel macros and VBA for automation

Module 3: Power BI for Data Visualization
• Getting Started with Power BI
• Power BI interface and components
• Connecting to data sources
• Data Transformation
• Using Power Query Editor
• Cleaning and shaping data
• Creating Reports and Dashboards
• Building interactive visualizations
• Using DAX (Data Analysis Expressions) for advanced calculations
• Sharing and Collaborating
• Publishing reports to Power BI Service
• Sharing dashboards with stakeholders

Module 4: CompTIA Data+ Certification Preparation
• Data Concepts and Environments
• Understanding data structures and types
• Data lifecycle management
• Data Mining and Manipulation
• Extracting, transforming, and loading (ETL) processes
• Data manipulation techniques
• Data Analysis and Interpretation
• Statistical methods and analysis techniques
• Using data to make informed decisions
• Data Governance and Quality
• Ensuring data accuracy and integrity
• Understanding data privacy and compliance regulations
• Exam Preparation
• Review of CompTIA Data+ exam objectives
• Practice questions and mock exams

Module 5: Integrative Projects and Case Studies
• Real-World Case Studies
• Analyzing datasets from various industries
• Applying learned techniques to solve business problems
• Capstone Project
• Comprehensive project combining Excel, Power BI, and data analysis skills
• Presentation of findings and insights

Module 6: Soft Skills and Career Development
• Effective Communication of Data Insights
• Storytelling with data
• Designing impactful presentations and reports
• Career Pathways in Data Analysis
• Overview of roles and responsibilities
• Building a professional portfolio and resume
• Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
• Efficiently use Excel for data manipulation, analysis, and visualization.
• Create interactive and insightful dashboards using Power BI.
• Apply data analysis concepts and techniques covered in the CompTIA Data+ certification.
• Analyze and interpret data to provide actionable business insights.
• Prepare for and pass the CompTIA Data+ certification exam.

Target Audience
• Aspiring data analysts
• Business professionals looking to enhance their data skills
• IT professionals transitioning to data-focused roles
• Students and graduates seeking foundational data analysis expertise

Course Delivery Format

Duration: 3 Months

Format: Hybrid, instructor-led sessions with hands-on labs and self-paced learning materials

Assessment: Quizzes, assignments, capstone project, and mock exams

This course provides a comprehensive and practical approach to mastering data analysis, leveraging the power of Excel, Power BI, and the foundational knowledge required for the CompTIA Data+ certification.