In this introductory lesson, we’ll explore the basics of data set anatomy including variables, observations, and how a tidy data set is organised.

We’ll also look at some concrete examples of data analysis in action. Data analysis is more than just a bunch of mathematical abstractions; it has real uses in the real world.

The first step of data analysis is to take a look at what the numbers are indicating. Are you able to identify any patterns or correlations? In the video, the example showed that there seemed to be a correlation between proneness of guilt increasing as age increases.

Using regression analysis, we can plot a trend line on our graph to show that there is an upward trend in our data. As age increases people’s personalities do tend to become more sensitive to feeling remorse:

Data analysis helps us to tell stories about the data itself.

Join the discussion

As you are being introduced to statistical analysis, what are you noticing about being able to identify trends?

Use the discussion section below and let us know your thoughts. Try to respond to at least one other post and once you’re happy with your contribution, click the Mark as Complete button to check the step off, then you can move to the next step.