ICDL Data Analytics (ICDL) study plan
ICDL Data Analytics · Give each week a clear focus.
8 weeks · About 6 hours per week
Data Analytics Fundamentals
Define the core stages of the data analytics lifecycle and order them correctly
Distinguish descriptive, diagnostic, predictive, and prescriptive analytics with a self-written example of each
Classify data types (nominal, ordinal, interval, ratio) and identify which summary statistics apply to each
Explain the difference between a population and a sample and when each is used
Your checkpoint
A one-page reference sheet covering the analytics lifecycle, the four analytics types with examples, and data-type rules, scored against a 10-question self-quiz at 80% or higher
Data Analytics Fundamentals
Compute mean, median, mode, range, variance, and standard deviation by hand for a small dataset
Interpret what each measure of central tendency and spread reveals about a distribution
Identify outliers using the interquartile range rule and justify whether to keep or exclude them
Explain how sampling bias and confounding variables distort conclusions
Your checkpoint
A worked statistics worksheet showing hand calculations for two datasets plus a short written justification of outlier handling for each
Data Analytics Fundamentals & Data Analysis and Visualization
Match each chart type (bar, line, scatter, histogram, pie) to the question it answers best
Select the correct visualization for a given dataset and analytical purpose
Identify misleading chart practices such as truncated axes and inconsistent scales
Sketch a draft chart for a small dataset and annotate why the chosen type fits
Your checkpoint
A chart-selection decision table mapping at least six analytical questions to appropriate chart types, with one annotated hand-drawn example
Data Analysis and Visualization
Build a pivot table that summarizes a dataset by two dimensions with calculated fields
Apply sorting, filtering, and conditional formatting to surface top and bottom performers
Construct a scatter plot and describe the direction and strength of the relationship
Summarize key findings from a chart in two to three plain-language sentences
Your checkpoint
A single workbook or dashboard containing one pivot summary, one scatter plot, and a written three-sentence interpretation, reviewed against a self-made 8-point checklist
Data Analysis and Visualization & Data Management and Reporting
Clean a messy dataset by removing duplicates, standardizing formats, and handling missing values
Document each cleaning decision and its rationale in a change log
Apply validation rules that prevent invalid entries in a data table
Compare a before-and-after summary to quantify the effect of cleaning
Your checkpoint
A cleaned dataset accompanied by a change log listing every transformation and a one-paragraph before-and-after comparison
Data Management and Reporting
Design a relational table structure with a primary key and at least one linked table
Write queries or filters that extract a defined subset of records for a stated business question
Create a summary report that aggregates data by category and time period
Apply consistent naming, formatting, and labeling conventions across a report
Your checkpoint
A two-table relational dataset with three saved queries and one formatted summary report answering a specific question
Data-Driven Decision Making
Translate a business problem into a testable analytical question with defined success metrics
Interpret a dataset's results and state a recommendation supported by the evidence
Identify at least two limitations or risks in an analysis and describe their impact on the conclusion
Present findings in a short narrative structured as situation, evidence, recommendation
Your checkpoint
A two-page decision brief containing the question, key metrics, one supporting chart, a recommendation, and a limitations section
Data Analytics Fundamentals & Data Analysis and Visualization & Data Management and Reporting & Data-Driven Decision Making
Assemble a full end-to-end analysis from raw data through cleaning, visualization, reporting, and recommendation
Audit the deliverable against all four domain checklists and close any gaps
Complete a timed 40-question practice set covering all domains and review every missed item
Explain each missed concept aloud in your own words to confirm understanding
Your checkpoint
A complete capstone analysis package (cleaned data, chart, report, and decision brief) plus a practice-set score of 80% or higher with a written review of every error
Milestones
Week 2: Score 80% or higher on a self-made 10-question fundamentals quiz covering lifecycle, data types, and descriptive statistics
Week 4: Produce a chart-and-pivot deliverable that passes your 8-point checklist with no more than one failed item
Week 6: Demonstrate a cleaned, documented dataset and a formatted summary report generated from saved queries
Week 8: Submit the full capstone package and score 80% or higher on the timed mixed-domain practice set