In this article, we will dive into the world of SQL and its significance in the realm of data analysis.
- What is SQL
- Why we need SQL
- What to learn
- Where to Learn
- How to share your Knowledge of SQL online
Let’s Start :
What is SQL?
- SQL is a special language that lets you talk to a computer to work with big sets of organized information, like asking a librarian for books in a well-organized library. You use it to ask questions, make changes, or get data from databases, which are like digital filing cabinets for information.
Why we need SQL in data analysis specially ?
- SQL is like a superhero tool for people who work with data. Imagine you have a huge pile of information, like a mountain of papers, and you need to find specific details from it, like finding a particular book in a library. SQL helps you do just that.
- It lets you ask questions to your computer database, such as “Give me a list of all the customers who bought ice cream in the last month.” It can also help you tidy up messy data, like fixing mistakes or removing duplicates.
What to Learn ?
- I often encounter this question, and I myself wondered about the extent of SQL knowledge required to land a job as a fresher.
- To be honest, while the core skill for a data analyst remains the ability to analyze data effectively, it’s often the soft skills that can be challenging to showcase in a single interview.
- Tools play a crucial role in securing a job, and in this context, the Query language is pivotal.
- I frequently advise individuals that it’s Advanced SQL that you truly need, not just the basic SQL typically taught in colleges.
- My aim is to encourage people to roll up their sleeves and take the initiative to learn SQL independently.
- Advanced SQL includes —
- Basic SQL
- Data Transformation — ( SUM , AVG , COUNT)
- Data Cleaning
- JOINs
- Grouping
- Window Function
- CTEs
- Sub Queries
- And practice
Where to Learn?
- There are several places where you can learn SQL, but my personal favorite is HackerRank, and here’s why. HackerRank offers a range of challenges that start from easy and gradually get harder. You can learn step by step through their editorial guides, which help you understand how to solve each challenge. This approach allows you to take small, manageable steps toward mastering advanced SQL.
- Once you’ve completed these challenges, you can take on the 8-week challenge series, which consists of 8 different challenges. You can start with any of them based on your preference, but the key is to thoroughly understand the question to find the answer. You can practice with one or two challenges at a time.
- For hands-on experience, you can work on projects that involve real data, similar to the challenges in the 8-week series. The only difference is that there won’t be specific questions provided, which will test your analytical skills as you tackle the data.
- Another resource for practicing SQL is Datalemur, and you can also explore LeetCode for additional learning opportunities.
How to share your Knowledge of SQL online?
- You can enhance your profile by earning certificates, and HackerRank offers three valuable certifications. Acquiring these certifications is an excellent way to demonstrate your skills.
- You can also showcase your achievements through your projects and the 8-week challenge you complete.
- Share the toughest challenges you’ve conquered on HackerRank and Datalemur with others online, offering insights and solutions.
- Consider writing a blog, similar to what I’ve done, to document and share your learning journey with a wider audience. This not only highlights your expertise but also inspires and educates others on their own learning paths.
The blog journey continues! Follow me for more captivating content in the upcoming blogs.
