Applying Analytics

6 Applying Analytics: A Practical Introduction

that stood out the most; there is often more to be learned from what doe sn’t

fit tha n from what does.

There ar e several reas ons to study the data set in this way, befo re applying

any analytical techniques. First, when it’s all said and done, you’re going to

present your findings to your boss, your advis or, or a larger audience. In

these settings, you’ll need to be able to respond to questions about the data

without having access to your computer or your notes. You’ll even be asked

to spec ulate on the fly about techniques you haven’t actually applied to the

data! The only way to answer these questions with confidence is to know your

data backwards and forwards. Thoroughly knowing your data also helps ...