research and analytical skills examples

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What are analytical skills? Examples and how to level up

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What are analytical skills?

Why are analytical skills important, 9 analytical skills examples, how to improve analytical skills, how to show analytical skills in a job application, the benefits of an analytical mind.

With market forecasts, performance metrics, and KPIs, work throws a lot of information at you. 

If you want to stay ahead of the curve, not only do you have to make sense of the data that comes your way — you need to put it to good use. And that requires analytical skills.

You likely use analytical thinking skills every day without realizing it, like when you solve complex problems or prioritize tasks . But understanding the meaning of analysis skills in a job description, why you should include them in your professional development plan, and what makes them vital to every position can help advance your career.

Analytical skills, or analysis skills, are the ones you use to research and interpret information. Although you might associate them with data analysis, they help you think critically about an issue, make decisions , and solve problems in any context. That means anytime you’re brainstorming for a solution or reviewing a project that didn’t go smoothly, you’re analyzing information to find a conclusion. With so many applications, they’re relevant for nearly every job, making them a must-have on your resume.

Analytical skills help you think objectively about information and come to informed conclusions. Positions that consider these skills the most essential qualification grew by 92% between 1980 and 2018 , which shows just how in-demand they are. And according to Statista, global data creation will grow to more than 180 zettabytes by 2025 — a number with 21 zeros. That data informs every industry, from tech to marketing.

Even if you don’t interact with statistics and data on the job, you still need analytical skills to be successful. They’re incredibly valuable because:

• They’re transferable: You can use analysis skills in a variety of professional contexts and in different areas of your life, like making major decisions as a family or setting better long-term personal goals.
• They build agility: Whether you’re starting a new position or experiencing a workplace shift, analysis helps you understand and adapt quickly to changing conditions. 
• They foster innovation: Analytical skills can help you troubleshoot processes or operational improvements that increase productivity and profitability.
• They make you an attractive candidate: Companies are always looking for future leaders who can build company value. Developing a strong analytical skill set shows potential employers that you’re an intelligent, growth-oriented candidate.

If the thought of evaluating data feels unintuitive, or if math and statistics aren’t your strong suits, don’t stress. Many examples of analytical thinking skills don’t involve numbers. You can build your logic and analysis abilities through a variety of capacities, such as:

1. Brainstorming

Using the information in front of you to generate new ideas is a valuable transferable skill that helps you innovate at work . Developing your brainstorming techniques leads to better collaboration and organizational growth, whether you’re thinking of team bonding activities or troubleshooting a project roadblock. Related skills include benchmarking, diagnosis, and judgment to adequately assess situations and find solutions.

2. Communication

Becoming proficient at analysis is one thing, but you should also know how to communicate your findings to your audience — especially if they don’t have the same context or experience as you. Strong communication skills like public speaking , active listening , and storytelling can help you strategize the best ways to get the message out and collaborate with your team . And thinking critically about how to approach difficult conversations or persuade someone to see your point relies on these skills. 

3. Creativity

You might not associate analysis with your creativity skills, but if you want to find an innovative approach to an age-old problem, you’ll need to combine data with creative thinking . This can help you establish effective metrics, spot trends others miss, and see why the most obvious answer to a problem isn’t always the best. Skills that can help you to think outside the box include strategic planning, collaboration, and integration.

4. Critical thinking

Processing information and determining what’s valuable requires critical thinking skills . They help you avoid the cognitive biases that prevent innovation and growth, allowing you to see things as they really are and understand their relevance. Essential skills to turn yourself into a critical thinker are comparative analysis, business intelligence, and inference.

5. Data analytics

When it comes to large volumes of information, a skilled analytical thinker can sort the beneficial from the irrelevant. Data skills give you the tools to identify trends and patterns and visualize outcomes before they impact an organization or project’s performance. Some of the most common skills you can develop are prescriptive analysis and return on investment (ROI) analysis.

6. Forecasting

Predicting future business, market, and cultural trends better positions your organization to take advantage of new opportunities or prepare for downturns. Business forecasting requires a mix of research skills and predictive abilities, like statistical analysis and data visualization, and the ability to present your findings clearly.

7. Logical reasoning

Becoming a logical thinker means learning to observe and analyze situations to draw rational and objective conclusions. With logic, you can evaluate available facts, identify patterns or correlations, and use them to improve decision-making outcomes. If you’re looking to improve in this area, consider developing inductive and deductive reasoning skills.

8. Problem-solving

Problem-solving appears in all facets of your life — not just work. Effectively finding solutions to any issue takes analysis and logic, and you also need to take initiative with clear action plans . To improve your problem-solving skills , invest in developing visualization , collaboration, and goal-setting skills.

9. Research

Knowing how to locate information is just as valuable as understanding what to do with it. With research skills, you’ll recognize and collect data relevant to the problem you’re trying to solve or the initiative you’re trying to start. You can improve these skills by learning about data collection techniques, accuracy evaluation, and metrics.

You don’t need to earn a degree in data science to develop these skills. All it takes is time, practice, and commitment. Everything from work experience to hobbies can help you learn new things and make progress. Try a few of these ideas and stick with the ones you enjoy:

1. Document your skill set

The next time you encounter a problem and need to find solutions, take time to assess your process. Ask yourself:

• What facts are you considering?
• Do you ask for help or research on your own? What are your sources of advice?
• What does your brainstorming process look like?
• How do you make and execute a final decision?
• Do you reflect on the outcomes of your choices to identify lessons and opportunities for improvement?
• Are there any mistakes you find yourself making repeatedly?
• What problems do you constantly solve easily? 

These questions can give insight into your analytical strengths and weaknesses and point you toward opportunities for growth.

2. Take courses

Many online and in-person courses can expand your logical thinking and analysis skills. They don’t necessarily have to involve information sciences. Just choose something that trains your brain and fills in your skills gaps . 

Consider studying philosophy to learn how to develop your arguments or public speaking to better communicate the results of your research. You could also work on your hard skills with tools like Microsoft Excel and learn how to crunch numbers effectively. Whatever you choose, you can explore different online courses or certification programs to upskill. 

3. Analyze everything

Spend time consciously and critically evaluating everything — your surroundings, work processes, and even the way you interact with others. Integrating analysis into your day-to-day helps you practice. The analytical part of your brain is like a muscle, and the more you use it, the stronger it’ll become. 

After reading a book, listening to a podcast, or watching a movie, take some time to analyze what you watched. What were the messages? What did you learn? How was it delivered? Taking this approach to media will help you apply it to other scenarios in your life. 

If you’re giving a presentation at work or helping your team upskill , use the opportunity to flex the analytical side of your brain. For effective teaching, you’ll need to process and analyze the topic thoroughly, which requires skills like logic and communication. You also have to analyze others’ learning styles and adjust your teachings to match them. 

5. Play games

Spend your commute or weekends working on your skills in a way you enjoy. Try doing logic games like Sudoku and crossword puzzles during work breaks to foster critical thinking. And you can also integrate analytical skills into your existing hobbies. According to researcher Rakesh Ghildiyal, even team sports like soccer or hockey will stretch your capacity for analysis and strategic thinking . 

6. Ask questions

According to a study in Tr ends in Cognitive Sciences, being curious improves cognitive function , helping you develop problem-solving skills, retention, and memory. Start speaking up in meetings and questioning the why and how of different decisions around you. You’ll think more critically and even help your team find breakthrough solutions they otherwise wouldn’t.

7.Seek advice

If you’re unsure what analytical skills you need to develop, try asking your manager or colleagues for feedback . Their outside perspective offers insight you might not find within, like patterns in. And if you’re looking for more consistent guidance, talking to a coach can help you spot weaknesses and set goals for the long term.

8. Pursue opportunities

Speak to your manager about participating in special projects that could help you develop and flex your skills. If you’d like to learn about SEO or market research, ask to shadow someone in the ecommerce or marketing departments. If you’re interested in business forecasting, talk to the data analysis team. Taking initiative demonstrates a desire to learn and shows leadership that you’re eager to grow. 

Shining a spotlight on your analytical skills can help you at any stage of your job search. But since they take many forms, it’s best to be specific and show potential employers exactly why and how they make you a better candidate. Here are a few ways you can showcase them to the fullest:

1. In your cover letter

Your cover letter crafts a narrative around your skills and work experience. Use it to tell a story about how you put your analytical skills to use to solve a problem or improve workflow. Make sure to include concrete details to explain your thought process and solution — just keep it concise. Relate it back to the job description to show the hiring manager or recruiter you have the qualifications necessary to succeed.

2. On your resume

Depending on the type of resume you’re writing, there are many opportunities to convey your analytical skills to a potential employer. You could include them in sections like: 

• Professional summary: If you decide to include a summary, describe yourself as an analytical person or a problem-solver, whichever relates best to the job posting. 
• Work experience: Describe all the ways your skill for analysis has helped you perform or go above and beyond your responsibilities. Be sure to include specific details about challenges and outcomes related to the role you’re applying for to show how you use those skills. 
• Skills section: If your resume has a skill-specific section, itemize the analytical abilities you’ve developed over your career. These can include hard analytical skills like predictive modeling as well as interpersonal skills like communication.

3. During a job interview

As part of your interview preparation , list your professional accomplishments and the skills that helped along the way, such as problem-solving, data literacy, or strategic thinking. Then, pull them together into confident answers to common interview questions using the STAR method to give the interviewer a holistic picture of your skill set.

Developing analytical skills isn’t only helpful in the workplace. It’s essential to life. You’ll use them daily whenever you read the news, make a major purchase, or interact with others. Learning to critically evaluate information can benefit your relationships and help you feel more confident in your decisions, whether you’re weighing your personal budget or making a big career change .

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Elizabeth Perry, ACC

Elizabeth Perry is a Coach Community Manager at BetterUp. She uses strategic engagement strategies to cultivate a learning community across a global network of Coaches through in-person and virtual experiences, technology-enabled platforms, and strategic coaching industry partnerships. With over 3 years of coaching experience and a certification in transformative leadership and life coaching from Sofia University, Elizabeth leverages transpersonal psychology expertise to help coaches and clients gain awareness of their behavioral and thought patterns, discover their purpose and passions, and elevate their potential. She is a lifelong student of psychology, personal growth, and human potential as well as an ICF-certified ACC transpersonal life and leadership Coach.

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Analytical Skills: Definition and Examples for Resume

Employers are constantly seeking job applicants with strong analytical skills. These skills are essential in identifying and solving complex problems. So, what are analytical skills? In this article, we will define analytical skills and how they can be relevant in a resume.

Definition of Analytical Skills

Analytical skills refer to a person’s ability to gather and analyze information, break down complex problems into smaller components, identify possible solutions, and make sound decisions based on the results. Analytical thinking involves a combination of logic, reasoning, and critical thinking.

Importance of Analytical Skills for Job Applicants

Analytical skills are essential for various job positions, especially in industries that require systematic problem-solving. Employers look for candidates who can provide evidence-based solutions to current problems, create new business strategies and even identify future problems. Analytical thinking is not only required for technical roles such as data analysis or finance, but also for fields such as marketing, healthcare, education, and more.  Key Elements of Analytical Skills

Analytical skills refer to the ability to break down complex information, identify patterns, and draw relevant conclusions. These skills are highly sought after by employers as they are crucial in many fields, ranging from business to healthcare.

There are four key elements of analytical skills: critical thinking skills, research and data analysis skills, attention to detail, and problem-solving abilities.

1. Critical Thinking Skills

Critical thinking skills involve the ability to evaluate information objectively and make sound judgments based on evidence. This element of analytical skills requires an individual to identify assumptions, consider multiple perspectives, and take into account different points of view.

Employers value critical thinking skills as they allow individuals to make informed decisions and solve problems effectively. Employees with strong critical thinking skills are also able to communicate their ideas clearly and convincingly.

2. Research and Data Analysis Skills

Research and data analysis skills involve the ability to collect, analyze, and interpret large amounts of data. This element of analytical skills requires an individual to use a range of tools and techniques, including statistical analysis and forecasting.

Employers value research and data analysis skills as they allow individuals to identify patterns, trends, and insights in data. This information can then be used to make informed business decisions and gain a competitive advantage.

3. Attention to Detail

Attention to detail involves the ability to focus on small details while also keeping the big picture in mind. This element of analytical skills requires an individual to be methodical and systematic in their approach to tasks.

Employers value attention to detail as it allows individuals to identify errors and inconsistencies in data or processes. This can help to prevent errors or mistakes that could have a significant impact on business operations.

4. Problem-Solving Abilities

Problem-solving abilities involve the ability to identify and solve complex problems. This element of analytical skills requires an individual to be creative and innovative in their approach to problem-solving.

Employers value problem-solving abilities as it allows individuals to find solutions to challenging problems and overcome obstacles. This can help to drive innovation and growth within a company.

Analytical skills are critical for success in today’s job market. Employers value individuals who are able to think critically, analyze data, pay attention to detail, and solve complex problems. By developing these key elements of analytical skills, individuals can improve their employability and increase their chances of success in the workplace.

Why Employers Seek Analytical Skills?

In today’s fast-paced and data-driven business world, employers place a high value on employees with strong analytical skills. These skills have become increasingly important in a wide range of industries, including finance, healthcare, marketing, and technology.

The Advantages of Hiring Employees with Analytical Skills

One of the primary advantages of hiring employees with analytical skills is their ability to gather and interpret data. This allows them to identify patterns and trends, and make informed decisions that can help a business succeed. Analytically savvy employees can also help improve processes and find ways to streamline operations, saving the company both time and money.

Another advantage is that employees with analytical skills are capable of critically assessing information, which translates into effective problem-solving skills. They can approach challenges with a logical, evidence-based approach, helping to create sustainable solutions that benefit the business in the long run.

The Surging Demand for Analytical Skills

The demand for employees with analytical skills has been surging in recent years due to the increasing emphasis on data-driven decision-making. Companies are looking for candidates who can leverage data and insights to drive growth and innovation. This trend is expected to continue as emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning continue to transform the business landscape.

Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the need for professionals with analytical skills. Companies are facing unprecedented challenges and need employees who can adapt quickly and find creative solutions to complex problems.

Possessing analytical skills is becoming increasingly important for job seekers in today’s competitive job market. Employers value these skills for their ability to make informed decisions, solve problems, and drive growth. As the demand for analytical skills continues to surge, candidates who can demonstrate these skills on their resume will be at a distinct advantage.

Top Analytical Skills for Your Resume

Analytical skills are vital for job seekers looking to make an impact in today’s competitive job market. Whether you are a recent grad or a seasoned professional, emphasizing your analytical skills on your resume is a great way to stand out from the crowd.

Here are some essential analytical skills to highlight on your resume:

Data Analysis: The ability to interpret and analyze data is critical for many jobs, from business analysts to market researchers. Strong data analysis skills can help you make informed decisions, identify trends and patterns, and solve complex problems.

Critical Thinking: Employers value critical thinkers who can approach problems and challenges with a logical and analytical mindset. This skill involves being able to analyze information objectively, evaluate arguments, and solve problems in a systematic and rational way.

Research: Research skills are essential for many jobs, particularly those in academia, journalism, or marketing. Being able to conduct in-depth research, analyze data, and synthesize findings is critical for success in these fields.

Problem-Solving: Being a problem solver means having an ability to find solutions to complex problems. This ability includes being able to analyze the problem, come up with possible solutions, and evaluate those solutions based on their feasibility and effectiveness.

Attention to Detail: Employers value candidates who pay close attention to detail. This skill requires a strong focus on accuracy and precision, an ability to catch errors, and a strong willingness to double-check work to ensure accuracy.

Once you have highlighted your analytical skills on your resume, it’s essential to tailor them specifically to the job you are applying to. Here are some tips to help you do just that:

Review the Job Description: Start by carefully reviewing the job description and identifying the analytical skills that are specifically listed as requirements for the job. Then, make sure you highlight these skills on your resume in a prominent location.

Use Specific Examples: Use specific examples of how you have used your analytical skills in your previous jobs or academic experiences. For example, you might describe a project where you used data analysis skills to identify customer trends or a research project where you used critical thinking skills to evaluate different theories.

Be Concise: Be sure to keep your resume concise and focused on the most important analytical skills for the job you are applying to. Don’t overload your resume with irrelevant details, but instead focus on the skills that are most relevant and impactful.

Analytical skills are a critical component of success in today’s job market. By highlighting your analytical skills on your resume and tailoring them specifically to the job you are applying to, you can set yourself apart from the competition and increase your chances of getting hired.

Showcase your Analytical Skills on your Resume

Analytical skills are a crucial asset in today’s job market. Employers are looking for candidates with the ability to gather and analyze data to make informed decisions. If you possess strong analytical abilities, it is essential that you showcase them on your resume.

Here are some helpful tips for highlighting your analytical skills on your resume:

Tips for Highlighting Analytical Skills on Your Resume

Use quantitative language: Incorporate numbers, percentages, and statistics to show how you have used your analytical skills in your previous roles.

Highlight your problem-solving abilities: Use examples to demonstrate how you have solved complex problems using your analytical skills.

List relevant technical skills: Mention software or programs you have used in data analysis and where you have applied your data analysis skills.

Showcase your attention to detail: Show how you have used your analytical skills to find mistakes or inconsistencies in data or projects.

Use action verbs: Incorporate verbs such as “analyze,” “quantify,” “interpret,” and “evaluate” to show your analytical skills in action.

Resume Sample with Analytical Skills Examples

Name: John Smith

Contact Information: (555) 555-5555 |  [email protected]

Summary: Data-driven individual with proven analytical skills, able to solve complex problems and extract actionable insights from data. Possesses extensive experience in data analysis and database management.

Experience:

Data Analyst, XYZ Company Responsible for analyzing and interpreting data, presenting findings to key stakeholders, and designing custom reports. Developed and implemented data quality assurance procedures, resulting in a 25% reduction in errors in the first year.

Project Manager, ABC Corporation Worked closely with business teams to define project scope, objectives, and deliverables. Utilized analytical skills to develop detailed project plans and timelines. Completed projects on-time and within budget, resulting in a 20% increase in productivity.

• Proficient in SQL, Python, Excel, and other data analytics tools
• Analytical problem-solving
• Excellent attention to detail
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Bachelor of Science in Statistics, University of California, Los Angeles

The above resume sample showcases how John has highlighted his analytical abilities. He has used quantitative language, highlighted his problem-solving abilities, listed relevant technical skills, showcased his attention to detail, and used action verbs to describe his experience.

Make sure to incorporate these tips into your resume to effectively showcase your analytical skills!

Examples of Analytical Skills

In this section, we will provide real-life examples of analytical skills in the workplace and how they are applicable in various industries.

Real-Life Examples of Analytical Skills in the Workplace

Analytical skills refer to the ability to analyze information, comprehend complex issues, and make sound decisions based on data. These skills are highly valued in the workplace, and numerous job roles require employees to have exceptional analytical skills. Here are a few real-life examples of analytical skills in the workplace:

• A marketing manager analyzing market research data to make pricing decisions and develop marketing campaigns
• An operations manager analyzing production data to identify inefficiencies and improve productivity and profitability
• A financial analyst reviewing financial statements and market trends to provide investment advice
• A data analyst analyzing customer data to identify trends and improve sales strategies
• A healthcare consultant analyzing patient data to identify areas for improvement in healthcare outcomes and costs

Analytical Skills Examples in Various Industries

Analytical skills are a valuable asset across various industries, and employees with these skills often hold positions that require data analysis, decision-making, and problem-solving. Here are analytical skill examples across different industries:

• Analyzing medical data to identify patterns in diagnoses, treatment results, and patient outcomes
• Developing and implementing health policies based on medical and demographic data
• Designing health interventions to improve health outcomes and reduce costs
• Analyzing consumer behavior data to identify trends and develop marketing strategies
• Using website analytics to optimize website design and increase conversion rates
• Applying social media analytics to monitor brand, engagement, and online reputation
• Analyzing user data to identify usage patterns and improve product design
• Developing algorithms to automate data processing and analysis
• Using statistical analysis to enhance cybersecurity and mitigate risks
• Analyzing financial statements to help clients make informed investment decisions
• Identifying potential investment opportunities by analyzing market trends and stock prices
• Performing risk analysis to predict potential financial losses and advise clients on necessary risk management strategies

Analytical skills are critical for success in various industries. Highlighting these skills in your resume can increase your chances of landing a job that requires data analysis, decision-making, and problem-solving. By providing real-life examples of analytical skills in the workplace, you can demonstrate your competency and suitability for these types of roles.

Analytical Skills Test and Assessment

Analytical skills are highly valued in the job market as they can help employees understand complex information and solve problems effectively. Therefore, it is common for employers to require an analytical skills test or assessment as part of the hiring process.

Fundamental Aspects of Analytical Skills Test

An analytical skills test is designed to measure a candidate’s ability to analyze, understand, and interpret data. The test may include different types of questions such as logical reasoning, abstract reasoning, data analysis, and critical thinking.

It is important to note that analytical skills can be developed over time, and the test may not necessarily measure a candidate’s full potential. However, the results can still provide valuable information for the employer to consider.

Popular Analytical Skill Assessment Tools Used by Employers

There are numerous analytical skill assessment tools available for employers to use. Some of the most popular tools include:

Wonderlic Personnel Test:  This test assesses a candidate’s cognitive ability and measures their problem-solving skills.

Watson-Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisal:  This assessment measures a candidate’s ability to evaluate information and make decisions based on it.

Raven’s Progressive Matrices:  This test evaluates a candidate’s ability to quickly identify patterns and solve problems using abstract reasoning.

Caliper Profile:  This assessment measures a candidate’s personality traits and cognitive abilities to predict their potential job performance.

Predictive Index:  This test measures a candidate’s cognitive ability and personal characteristics to predict their work-style preferences.

Employers may choose to use one or more of these assessment tools depending on their specific hiring needs. It is important to select the right tool for the job to ensure a fair and accurate evaluation of a candidate’s analytical skills.

An analytical skills test or assessment is a common practice among employers who value this skill set. By understanding the fundamental aspects of these tests and the popular assessment tools available, job seekers can better prepare themselves for the hiring process and demonstrate their analytical abilities effectively.

Developing Analytical Skills

Analytical skills refer to the ability to collect, analyze, and interpret complex data sets and arrive at logical conclusions. These skills are highly valued by employers, and they are essential for success in many fields, including business, healthcare, and engineering. In this section, we will explore some techniques and strategies for enhancing analytical skills, as well as some activities that can help you improve your analytical abilities.

Techniques and Strategies to Enhance Analytical Skills

Practice Critical Thinking : Critical thinking is essential for analytical skills. Critical thinking involves asking questions, evaluating information, and analyzing situations. Engage in activities that strengthen your critical thinking skills. This could include reading, discussing complex issues with others, or solving puzzles.

Develop Research Skills : To be effective in your analysis, you need to know how to research and gather relevant data. Learn how to use different sources, such as academic databases, books, and websites, to collect and analyze the information you need.

Utilize Data Analysis Tools : There are a host of data analysis tools available that can help you to work with complex data sets, such as Excel or Google Sheets. Mastering these tools is an essential part of developing your analytical skills.

Be Detail-Oriented : Paying attention to details is critical when analyzing complex information. It would help if you learned to identify patterns, look beyond surface-level information, and scrutinize data thoroughly.

Develop Strong Communication Skills : Being able to communicate your findings effectively is essential when developing analytical skills. Practice writing and speaking about complex topics in a clear and concise manner.

Activities That Can Boost Analytical Skills

Solve Logic Puzzles : Logic puzzles and brain teasers are an excellent way to build your analytical skills. These puzzles often require you to think logically and systematically, which can help you to develop your analytical abilities.

Read Critically : Reading critically involves analyzing and evaluating the information presented in a text. This activity can help you improve your ability to identify patterns, make connections, and draw conclusions.

Participate in Group Discussions : Participating in group discussions is a great way to practice your critical thinking and communication skills. Discussing complex issues with others can help you to see different perspectives and develop your analytical abilities.

Play Strategy Games : Games like chess, poker, and Sudoku require you to think strategically and analyze information. They can help you to strengthen your analytical skills and develop your ability to make logical decisions.

Practice Data Analysis : Practicing data analysis is a crucial part of developing analytical skills. Look for opportunities to work with data, such as volunteering for data-driven projects or conducting your own data analysis experiments.

Developing analytical skills requires a combination of practice, strategy, and critical thinking.

Analytical Skills vs Critical Thinking Skills

As a job seeker, highlighting your skills on your resume can help you stand out among other applicants. Two skills that are often mentioned in resumes for various positions are analytical skills and critical thinking skills. These skills are often linked together, but they have distinct differences and similarities. In this section, we will discuss these differences and similarities, and provide guidance on which skill to emphasize on your resume.

Differences and Similarities between Analytical and Critical Thinking Skills

Analytical skills involve breaking down complex information into parts, understanding relationships between those parts, and making conclusions based on these relationships. This process can involve data analysis, problem-solving, and decision-making. Analytical skills are essential in fields like finance, engineering, healthcare, and technology.

On the other hand, critical thinking skills involve evaluating arguments or claims by identifying relevant evidence, recognizing biases, and making judgments about the quality of the evidence. Critical thinking is commonly used in fields like law, academia, journalism, and social sciences.

Despite their differences, analytical and critical thinking skills share several similarities. Both skills require strong problem-solving abilities and the ability to think logically. They also require a strong attention to detail, the ability to communicate complex ideas, and the capacity to adapt to changing situations.

Which Skill to Emphasize on Resume?

When it comes to emphasizing which skill to highlight on your resume, it depends on the particular job you’re applying for. For example, if you’re applying for a data analyst position, your analytical skills should be emphasized on your resume. You can achieve this by highlighting your experience with data analysis software, your proficiency in statistics or other analytical tools, and your ability to interpret data.

However, if you’re applying for a job in journalism or academia, your critical thinking skills would be more valuable. You can showcase these skills by highlighting your research experience, your ability to analyze data or research findings, and your proficiency in conveying complex ideas in a logical and persuasive way.

In most cases, it’s important to highlight both analytical and critical thinking skills on your resume. A combination of these skills can indicate that you’re a well-rounded individual who can adapt to different roles and industries. Therefore, it can be helpful to mention both skills in your resume’s summary or objective statement, in your work experience, and in your education and training sections.

Analytical and critical thinking skills are both crucial for many jobs and industries, and they frequently overlap. However, the emphasis on one skill over the other depends on the job you’re applying for. If you’re unsure which skill to emphasize, highlighting both can showcase your versatility and increase your chances of standing out among other applicants. Effectively articulating your analytical and critical thinking abilities can help you land your dream job.

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4 Ways to Improve Your Analytical Skills

• 07 Jan 2021

Data is ubiquitous. It’s collected at every purchase made, flight taken, ad clicked, and social media post liked—which means it’s never been more crucial to understand how to analyze it.

“Never before has so much data about so many different things been collected and stored every second of every day,” says Harvard Business School Professor Jan Hammond in the online course Business Analytics .

The volume of data you encounter can be overwhelming and raise several questions: Can I trust the data’s source? Is it structured in a way that makes sense? What story does it tell, and what actions does it prompt?

Data literacy and analytical skills can enable you to answer these questions and not only make sense of raw data, but use it to drive impactful change at your organization.

Here’s a look at what it means to be data literate and four ways to improve your analytical skills.

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What Is Data Literacy?

Data literacy is the ability to analyze, interpret, and question data. A dataset is made up of numerous data points that, when viewed together, tell a story.

Before conducting an analysis, it’s important to ensure your data’s quality and structure is in accordance with your organization’s needs.

“In order to transform data into actionable information, you first need to evaluate its quality,” says Professor Dustin Tingley in the Harvard Online course Data Science Principles . “But evaluating the quality of your data is just the first step. You’ll also need to structure your data. Without structure, it’s nearly impossible to extract any information.”

When you’re able to look at quality data, structure it, and analyze it, trends emerge. The next step is to reflect on your analysis and take action.

Tingley shares several questions to ask yourself once you’ve analyzed your dataset: “Did all the steps I took make sense? If so, how should I respond to my analysis? If not, what should I go back and improve?”

For example, you may track users who click a button to download an e-book from your website.

After ensuring your data’s quality and structuring it in a way that makes sense, you begin your analysis and find that a user’s age is positively correlated with their likelihood to click. What story does this trend tell? What does it say about your users, product offering, and business strategy?

To answer these questions, you need strong analytical skills, which you can develop in several ways.

Related: Business Analytics: What It Is & Why It’s Important

How to Improve Your Analytical Skills

Analysis is an important skill to have in any industry because it enables you to support decisions with data, learn more about your customers, and predict future trends.

Key analytical skills for business include:

• Visualizing data
• Determining the relationship between two or more variables
• Forming and testing hypotheses
• Performing regressions using statistical programs, such as Microsoft Excel
• Deriving actionable conclusions from data analysis

If you want to provide meaningful conclusions and data-based recommendations to your team, here are four ways to bolster your analytical skills.

Related: How to Learn Business Analytics Without A Business Background

1. Consider Opposing Viewpoints

While engaging with opposing viewpoints can help you expand your perspective, combat bias, and show your fellow employees their opinions are valued, it can also be a useful way to practice analytical skills.

When analyzing data, it’s crucial to consider all possible interpretations and avoid getting stuck in one way of thinking.

For instance, revisit the example of tracking users who click a button on your site to download an e-book. The data shows that the user’s age is positively correlated with their likelihood to click the button; as age increases, downloads increase, too. At first glance, you may interpret this trend to mean that a user chooses to download the e-book because of their age.

This conclusion, however, doesn’t take into consideration the vast number of variables that change with age. For instance, perhaps the real reason your older users are more likely to download the e-book is their higher level of responsibility at work, higher average income, or higher likelihood of being parents.

This example illustrates the need to consider multiple interpretations of data, and specifically shows the difference between correlation (the trending of two or more variables in the same direction) and causation (when a trend in one variable causes a trend to occur in one or more other variables).

“Data science is built on a foundation of critical thinking,” Tingley says in Data Science Principles . “From the first step of determining the quality of a data source to determining the accuracy of an algorithm, critical thinking is at the heart of every decision data scientists—and those who work with them—make.”

To practice this skill, challenge yourself to question your assumptions and ask others for their opinions. The more you actively engage with different viewpoints, the less likely you are to get stuck in a one-track mindset when analyzing data.

2. Play Games or Brain Teasers

If you’re looking to sharpen your skills on a daily basis, there are many simple, enjoyable ways to do so.

Games, puzzles, and stories that require visualizing relationships between variables, examining situations from multiple angles, and drawing conclusions from known data points can help you build the skills necessary to analyze data.

Some fun ways to practice analytical thinking include:

• Crossword puzzles
• Mystery novels
• Logic puzzles
• Strategic board games or card games

These options can supplement your analytics coursework and on-the-job experience. Some of them also allow you to spend time with friends or family. Try engaging with one each day to hone your analytical mindset.

Related: 3 Examples of Business Analytics in Action

3. Take an Online Analytics Course

Whether you want to learn the basics, brush up on your skills, or expand your knowledge, taking an analytics course is an effective way to improve. A course can enable you to focus on the content you want to learn, engage with the material presented by a professional in the field, and network and interact with others in the data analytics space.

For a beginner, courses like Harvard Online's Data Science Principles can provide a foundation in the language of data. A more advanced course, like Harvard Online's Data Science for Business , may be a fit if you’re looking to explore specific facets of analytics, such as forecasting and machine learning. If you’re interested in hands-on applications of analytical formulas, a course like HBS Online's Business Analytics could be right for you. The key is to understand what skills you hope to gain, then find a course that best fits your needs.

If you’re balancing a full-time job with your analytics education, an online format may be a good choice . It offers the flexibility to engage with course content whenever and wherever is most convenient for you.

An online course may also present the opportunity to network and build relationships with other professionals devoted to strengthening their analytical skills. A community of like-minded learners can prove to be an invaluable resource as you learn and advance your career.

Related: Is An Online Business Analytics Course Worth It?

4. Engage With Data

Once you have a solid understanding of data science concepts and formulas, the next step is to practice. Like any skill, analytical skills improve the more you use them.

Mock datasets—which you can find online or create yourself—present a low-risk option for putting your skills to the test. Import the data into Microsoft Excel, then explore: make mistakes, try that formula you’re unsure of, and ask big questions of your dataset. By testing out different analyses, you can gain confidence in your knowledge.

Once you’re comfortable, engage with your organization’s data. Because these datasets have inherent meaning to your business's financial health, growth, and strategic direction, analyzing them can produce evidence and insights that support your decisions and drive change at your organization.

Investing in Your Data Literacy

As data continues to be one of businesses’ most valuable resources, taking the time and effort to build and bolster your analytical skill set is vital.

“Much more data are going to be available; we’re only seeing the beginning now,” Hammond says in a previous article . “If you don’t use the data, you’re going to fall behind. People that have those capabilities—as well as an understanding of business contexts—are going to be the ones that will add the most value and have the greatest impact.”

Are you interested in furthering your data literacy? Download our Beginner’s Guide to Data & Analytics to learn how you can leverage the power of data for professional and organizational success.

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Many job advertisements require “ strong analytical skills ”, but what does this phrase really mean in practice?

Analytical skills are the skills required to gather, assess, and analyse data or information—and then use that information to support better decision-making and problem-solving . They therefore include research skills, data analysis skills (both of quantitative and qualitative data), critical and creative thinking, and finally communication skills.

The good news is that most of us use analytical skills all the time. For example, you need analytical skills to decide what to have for dinner based on an assessment of the contents of your fridge or cupboards, your ability to visit the shops and your budget. However, they are also needed for complex business problems such as handling a merger or acquisition.

What Are Analytical Skills?

Analytical skills are the skills needed to gather information, assess it critically, and then use it to make decisions and/or solve problems.

It is worth unpicking each of these areas in turn, because they are actually quite separate and require different basic skills. You can safely say that you have good analytical skills only once you have mastered all of these areas.

Analytical skills are about much more than numbers

Traditionally, the term analytical skills was used only to refer to skills in analysing numbers and numerical data. However, in most workplaces, the term is used much more widely, to mean being able to review and understand information, and then apply it.

1. Gathering Data and Information: Research

The first area is gathering data and information, often known as research. Somewhat confusingly, research also provides the context that enables you to turn data into information (see box).

Our page on Research Methods points out that most people are likely to encounter research first as part of a project at school or college. However, quality research is important in many jobs—and simply to provide you with the information you need to understand how to make almost any decision.

From Data to Wisdom: The Knowledge Pyramid

The knowledge pyramid is a useful way to visualise the relationships between data, information, knowledge and wisdom.

• At the bottom of the pyramid lies data , individual facts and figures or measurements, in its raw, uncleaned form.
• When you add context (for example, by cleaning and organising the data), it becomes information .
• Adding meaning to information enables you to extend your knowledge , for example, by comparing your information with other work, or discussing it with others.
• Finally, when you add insights , you may attain wisdom .

In this article, therefore, we use these terms with these very specific meanings. Data is NOT the same as information, and information NOT the same as insight or knowledge.

There are many different types of research, and many different types of data . The method you use, and the type of data that you choose to collect will depend on the questions that you want to answer. For example:

If you want to know broadly how many customers are satisfied with your products, or how highly they would rate them on a scale , you might decide to carry out a survey to obtain some quantitative data (numbers).

However, if you want more detailed data about what customers actually think about your products, and how they use them , you might want to carry out some focus groups or interviews to obtain some qualitative data (opinions).

You can find out more about this in our page on quantitative and qualitative research methods .

You may also be interested in how to carry out market research, and gather competitive intelligence , which is a specific application of research methods to business. Our page on this subject also provides some useful information about sources of information for competitive intelligence. These include both primary sources of information (you collect the data yourself) and secondary sources (someone else has collected the data and made it available for others to use).

2. Assessing and Analysing Information and Data

Once you have gathered your information or data through research, you then need to assess and analyse it to provide yourself with more knowledge.

The first step is to consider the quality of your data. There are several ways that you can do that, such as considering the characteristics of the data, and whether it is supported by evidence from other sources.

There is more about assessing data quality in our page on Turning Information into Action .

Once you are certain that your data quality is good enough, you can then turn to analysis. There are many different forms of this, depending on your type of data. If your data is in the form of numbers, you might start with some simple statistical analysis , or perhaps use more complex statistical techniques such as multivariate analysis . However, if you have qualitative data, you might need to use other methods, such as those set out in our page on Analysing Qualitative Data .

There are also many forms of qualitative analysis used in business to provide insights, such as:

Porter’s Five Forces , which is used to help you visualise your market and your product within it;

SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) analysis, which is used to enable you to understand your company within the context of your situation; and

PESTLE analysis , which allows you to look at the external factors affecting your organisation.

3. Using Information to Support Decision-Making and Problem-Solving

Before you use any information that you gather, or the results of any analysis you have carried out, you need to apply the techniques of critical thinking .

Critical thinking is the ability to apply logic and knowledge to information that is provided.

For example, you might look at the ideas you have gathered, and assess how these link to your other knowledge about the situation. You need to be thinking about the patterns within your data, and what these tell you when set in context. You also need to consider how your thinking might be affected by your previous experience (positive or negative) and your own biases. Critical thinking is also essential for understanding and exploring the root causes of a problem—and therefore developing an effective solution.

Using these approaches will help you to be able to apply information effectively to decision-making.

Another key skill area in problem-solving is creative thinking . This is important because it helps you think more widely and come up with solutions to more complex problems.

To assess your creative thinking skills, you may be interested in our Creative Thinking Skills Self-Assessment .

Finally, it is essential to be able to communicate your findings or solutions to others. Many people underrate the importance of this area, but if you cannot communicate effectively, your ideas will not be accepted or adopted.

Our pages on communication skills provide more information about this crucial area, including effective speaking , and listening skills so that you can understand and respond effectively to objections.

A Final Thought

Analytical skills are an essential part of most jobs—but also how most of us live from day to day.

You may not be conscious of using them, or even of having developed them. However, it is highly likely that you use them all the time. The main issue with using them for work purposes is to assess the processes that you use, and ensure that they are reliable and robust.

Continue to: Creative Thinking Analysing Qualitative Data

See also: Scenario Analysis Personal SWOT Analysis Statistical Analysis: Understanding Correlations

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Summary. Analytical skills are used to assess situations and make plans to overcome obstacles, usually in structured, logical ways.

There are a few skill sets that are important to hone no matter what industry you work in, and analytical skills are one of those.

In this article, you’ll learn about several different types of analytical skills, how to highlight them when applying for a job, and how to improve your analytical skills.

Key Takeaways

Analytical skills are necessary for figuring out how to overcome obstacles and make wise decisions.

Some examples of analytical skills are data analysis, research, critical thinking, communication, problem-solving, visualization, and creativity.

You should highlight your analytical skills on your resume , in your cover letter , and during your interviews.

It’s important to work to grow your analytical skills throughout your career.

Types of Analytical Skills

Additional analytical skills, examples of how to showcase your analytical skills, examples of resumes that showcase analytical skills, example of analytical skills in a cover letter, examples of analytical skills in a job interview, examples of analytical skills on the job, how to improve your analytical skills, analytical skills faqs, final thoughts.

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Analytical skills are the qualities you possess that help you to assess situations rationally, create effective plans, and overcome obstacles. Analytical thinkers can separate themselves from their emotions in order to work effectively. They usually utilize a process to break down large problems into smaller issues to tackle.

There are a variety of traits and abilities that fall under the heading of strong analytical skills. Drawing attention to your strengths in analytical thinking can grab an employer’s attention, and land you an interview or a promotion.

Some analytical skills may be more relevant to your field than others. Take some time to consider which qualities will be the most valuable to your potential employers. Below are some great examples of important analytical thinking that hiring managers look for on your resume .

Data analysis. Taking in information, making sense of it logically, and using it to the best of your abilities is an important step in making calculated decisions.

Having impressive skills in data analysis greatly supports analytical thinking. Considering they share a root word in common, it makes sense that these skills rely on each other.

Data analysis could mean very different things for varying occupations.

If you work for a retail company, it could mean:

Examining quarterly clothing sales

Considering why the numbers are what they are, and if that’s satisfactory

Researching possibilities for how to increase revenue

Make decisions about whether to stay on the current trajectory or make changes to increase sales

Following-up

If you own a blog , it could mean:

Reading your website’s Google Analytics for each post

Determining increases or decreases in traffic and why that may be

Including traffic data points in a spreadsheet to consider trends

Coming up with strategies to boost website traffic based on success trends

Continually updating analytic data

Research . Conducting worthwhile research is very important in building viable solutions. Once you’ve noticed an issue or a way things could be done better, you must look for solutions towards improvement.

That depends on research. Luckily, we live in the age of the internet. Quite literally, we have a world of information available at our fingertips. You’re living proof of this — just look at what you’re doing right now by reading this article.

Carrying out research on important analytical skills, in order to improve your resume and employee profile. Using detailed research in your work style enhances your analytical problem-solving process.

Research involves:

Utilizing reliable resources

Fact-checking

Having an informational goal in mind

Attention to detail

Staying focused

Organizing data

Effectively presenting results

Critical thinking . Critical thinking is the boat that keeps the rest of your analytical skills afloat. It’s largely about having logic and reason at work.

It also involves always being open to learning more. Critical thinkers draw practical connections to further a company’s success. This is an extremely valuable skill for employers because critical thinkers can:

Determine why issues arise

Assess the strengths and weaknesses of a particular strategy

Deciphering complex issues into smaller steps

Develop logical plans

Efficiently solve problems

Articulate their thinking to others

Communication . You may have the ability to deep-dive into research and think critically about the results. However, this isn’t very helpful without being able to accurately translate these findings to others.

Communication is key to developing workplace relations and completing projects productively. Throughout the analytical problem-solving process, be sure to keep your co-workers and supervisors in the loop about everything you’re doing and the conclusions you’re drawing. They could have input that affects your course of action or expands on your ideas.

Communication skills involve:

Friendliness

Emotion control

Listening to others

Asking questions

Accepting and returning feedback

Paying attention to non-verbal communication

Coordination

Presentation

Following-up on past interactions

Problem-solving. Problem-solving skills may sound synonymous with analytical, but really, it’s just another skill involved in the analytical process. Employers seek to hire applicants who are adept at problem-solving to handle any unexpected circumstances or issues.

After identifying an issue and conducting proper research, brainstorming potential solutions is next. You use problem-solving abilities to organize all the information you’ve uncovered to produce a logical plan for action.

Problem-solving skills involve:

Active listening

Data analysis

Consulting multiple sources

Strong communication

Formulating strategy

Time management

Interpersonal skills

Decision-making

Visualization. One of the traits that make for a strong analytical thinker is a visualization for an end goal. Having a clear vision in mind is necessary for creating a plan that works well. After all, you have to know what outcome you’re looking for to analyze whether it was successful later.

Without an objective, your research and strategy can become disorganized. Throughout the analytical process, keeping your original goal in mind can make your analytical work more productive.

Goal visualization involves:

Taking data into account

Acknowledging your team’s strengths and weaknesses

Deciding what your team’s overall goal is

Discussing the best routes for achieving this objective

Creativity . Creative thinkers have the ability to formulate new ideas and ways of doing things. This can be extremely productive when using analytical reasoning skills.

A large component to coming up with effective solutions to problems that involve innovation. Creative employees make groundbreaking improvements from problems.

Creativity involves:

Imagination

Keeping goals in mind

Problem-solving

Experimentation

Transforming ideas into action

Other useful analytical skills include:

Time-Management

Recognizing achievements

Providing feedback

Computer skills

Clarification

Organization

There are four main ways to showcase your analytical skills as part of your job search :

On your resume

In your cover letter

In a job interview

47 Martin Ln. Orlando, FL , 44587 (771)-409-3376 [email protected] Shelby Malcolm Passionate and creative graphic designer with 4 years of experience and a B.A. in Design. Strong communication and problem-solving skills. SKILLS Adobe Photoshop Adobe Illustrator Proficient in Inkscape Creative Dependable Fast learner Problem-solving EXPERIENCE Ecosphere Design Lab, Orlando, FL — Graphic Designer March 2018 – PRESENT Outlining design concepts Coordinating with a team of 6 Direct client requests Illustration Considering industry trends Creating a range of ideas Promoted from Junior graphic designer after the first six months Innovation Graphics, Orlando, FL — Junior Graphic Designer January 2015 – January 2018 Communicating with clients Providing customer service Brainstorming idea for advertisements and logos Utilizing revision when needed Awarded a salary increase of 2% after the first year EDUCATION The University of Tampa, Tampa, FL — B.A. in Design August 2011 – May 2015

Jacob Jones 912 W Evans St. Sedona, AZ , 98211 (398)-197-1126 [email protected] LinkIn.com/in/JacobJones Organized and meticulous social media manager with 5+ years of experience. B.A. in Human Studies from the University of Arizona. Strengths in interpersonal skills and branding. Professional Experience Liberty Public Relations , Sedona, AZ Social Media Manager September 2017-Present Scheduled and coordinated meetings Interacted directly with clients Coordinated with marketing teams Manager profiles for several prominent clients Created detailed plans for success with milestones of completion Handled arising PR issues Awarded $2,500 bonus after the first year Gold Star Media Management , Sedona, AZ Social Media Marketing Intern, June 2016– August 2017 Memo creation and direction Email management Organizing social media post schedules Analyzing post success Collaborated on a team to design branding Aided in brand creation for up-and-coming companies Skills Social media Marketing Branding Google analytics HTML Attention to detail Critical thinking skills Adaptable Education University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ BA in Human Studies, May 2016 GPA: 3.5 out of 4.0

Nicholas Phillips Flexible and outgoing investigative journalist . Possess a Bachelor’s in English and a Masters in Journalism. Strong skills in creative thinking and problem-solving. 22 Main St. Houston, TX , 23014 (129)-828-1192 [email protected] NicholasPhillips.com EXPERIENCE XYZ News Channel, Houston, TX — Investigative Journalist April 2016 – PRESENT Search out newsworthy stories Conduct relevant research Communicating with co-workers and sources Fact-checking Interviewing subjects Developing story outlines Adhering to journalistic integrity Promoting the success and viewership of XYZ Awarded with two raises totaling $16,000 Houston Local News, Houston, TX — Journalist January 2014-April 2016 Thinking creatively to discover eye-catching stories and events Gathering information and subjects via extensive research Assessing lead quality Meeting set deadlines Coordinating with team of 10 Networking to establish working relationships Around Town Quarterly, Houston, TX — Journalist Intern June 2013- January 2014 Assisting in administrative work Conducting assigned research for topics Contributing to weekly brainstorms Editing and proofreading Assisting in interviews EDUCATION The University of Texas, Austin, TX — Master’s in Journalism September 2011 – June 2013 The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN– Bachelor’s in English August 2007-May2011. SKILLS Research Writing Bilingual Presentation Integrity Flexible Sociable LANGUAGES Fluency in English and Spanish

During my time as a Marketing Manager for XYZ Inc., I made it my mission to cut the budget while still growing our digital marketing presence. By recognizing that 80% of our traffic was coming from 20% of our content creators, I made the decision to cut our writing staff down significantly. What we saw was a 70% drop in spending on content creation, while traffic grew by an average of 24% monthly. Other accomplishments from this role include: Performed competitor keyword research to increase our organic reach by 29% YoY Developed a website design in tandem with product team and based on user feedback to increase engagement by 76% Identified and implemented best practices for email marketing and affiliate campaigns to increase conversion rates by 15% and revenue by 11%

In a job interview, you’ll hear a lot of questions designed to test your analytical skills. Let’s go over a couple of common interview questions , along with example answers that clearly highlight your supreme analytical powers:

For me, it’s all about maximizing both efficiency and effectiveness. I independently track how much time each of my tasks takes, and what the return on that time investment is. For example, when my team had to code a whole new content cluster using a wildly different style than our home page , I started by assessing which features were most sought after by users. I then implemented those changes and used A/B testing to determine the effectiveness. I found that adding trailing social engagement buttons along the left-hand side of the page upped engagement by over 20%, and it was a relatively simple thing to do. When you see that a huge chunk of your results come from small changes, it becomes easier to prioritize and identify the successful things you’re doing.

When I’m facing a problem I haven’t seen before, my first step is research. Whether that means looking online for tutorials covering the topic or speaking to an expert in the company, fact-finding is critical. Then, I like to implement imperfect changes — I say “imperfect” because I find many people suffer from “analysis paralysis.” Instead, I’m happier to put out the minimal viable product and iterate from there. A lot of the time, the issues you expect from a problem never arise, and ones you never consider crop up unannounced. That’s why I feel more comfortable having an actual product to tweak and perfect, rather than trying to find the perfect solution the first time.

Whether you’re hoping to earn a promotion or leverage your analytical skills into a new job, one of the best ways to showcase your analytical skills is to let others do it for you. By that we mean you should make it so clear that you’re an analytical juggernaut at work that your supervisors recognize it as your stand-out trait.

In practice, that can take a few different forms. Here are some examples of how you can show off your analytical skills in your work:

Take on leadership roles.

Volunteer for assignments that give you a chance to hone and show off your capacity for analysis.

Go out of your way to improve an inefficient or ineffective process.

There’s not a job out there that doesn’t utilize and benefit from analytical skills. Go out there and identify problems, offer solutions, and be critical with your evaluations. That’s how you wind up with a letter of recommendation that touts your ability to analyze situations effectively.

An employee with keen analytical skills has a bright future ahead of them. No matter what field or industry you work in, developing your analytical skills can help you achieve your career goals.

To improve your analytical skills:

Take tests. There are tons of free resources online for testing your analytical skills and ability to think critically. These are often math- or logic-based, and they can help train your brain to approach problems strategically.

Step into leadership roles. Leaders need a whole host of attributes to succeed , but analytical skills are a critical part of the job. Look for opportunities to lead projects to put your analytical skills to the test.

Play games. Not just any games, though. Think logic games like Rubik’s Cubes, Sudoku puzzles, and Chess. These games will strengthen your analytical skills while having fun. Plus, studies have shown that engaging in cognitively stimulating activities like these reduces your risk of cognitive decline and dementia.

Enroll in classes. It doesn’t even really matter what subject you choose to study, although if your goal is career growth, it should pertain to your job in some way. The important part is that when you’re learning new things, you’re forcing your brain out of its cognitive comfort zone.

Find a mentor . This is good advice regardless of what skills you’re trying to develop. A mentor in your field who has successfully weathered the challenges of your role is like a cheat code for strengthening your analytical skills.

Become a close reader. If you remember close reading from your high school English class, you’re probably groaning right now. But it turns out that was one of the truly valuable strategies you were taught in school.

You don’t need to be reading a text to be a close reader . When you watch movies and shows, see an advertisement, or listen to a politician’s speech, do your best to read between the lines. Look for plot holes, assess why an ad is effective (or not), and pay attention to what the politician isn’t saying.

What are examples of analytical skills?

Some examples of analytical skills include:

Critical thinking

Communication

Visualization

What type of skills are analytical skills?

Analytical skills are soft skills that allow you to collect and analyze information in a way that allows you to solve problems and make decisions well.

You use analytical skills in your daily work tasks, when you’re making schedules, and when you’re making important management decisions, to give just a few examples.

How do you say you have good analytical skills?

You say you have good analytical skills by providing examples of times you used your analytical skills. You can do this in your resume, in your cover letter, and during your interview. You can also showcase your analytical skills while you work.

What jobs use analytical skills?

Some jobs that use analytical skills include software engineer, cybersecurity analyst, and accountant. Many people in the finance, technological, and scientific industries use analytical skills in their day-to-day roles.

Analytical skills are useful in a variety of roles and positions, across a variety of industries. You can showcase your experience with them on your resume by listing specific examples of times that you have solved problems or addressed situations using analytical skills.

Harvard Business School Online – 4 Ways to Improve Your Analytical Skills

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Sky Ariella is a professional freelance writer, originally from New York. She has been featured on websites and online magazines covering topics in career, travel, and lifestyle. She received her BA in psychology from Hunter College.

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What Are Analytical Skills? [Examples]

By Status.net Editorial Team on June 17, 2023 — 10 minutes to read

Analytical skills are cognitive abilities that allow you to process, evaluate, and interpret complex information. These skills allow you to make data-driven decisions and solve problems effectively. In today’s fast-paced and data-driven world, having strong analytical skills is essential to excel in both personal and professional endeavors.

There are several components to analytical skills, such as critical thinking, data and information analysis, problem-solving, and decision-making. These components work in tandem to help you analyze various factors, uncover patterns or trends, and draw logical conclusions based on available data.

Here are some examples of analytical skills:

• Critical thinking: The ability to objectively evaluate information and form a reasoned judgment.
• Data analysis: The process of collecting, organizing, interpreting, and presenting data.
• Problem-solving: The capacity to identify issues, analyze potential solutions, and implement the most effective course of action.
• Decision-making: The process of choosing the most appropriate option among various alternatives based on relevant information.
• Research: The skill to gather information on a specific topic, interpret it and draw conclusions.

To showcase your analytical skills in a job application, emphasize instances where you have used these abilities to achieve positive results. Include metrics or specific examples that demonstrate the impact of your actions.

1. Critical thinking: “Analyzed complex data sets and objectively evaluated information to form a reasoned judgment, resulting in a 10% increase in sales revenue.”

2. Data analysis: “Utilized advanced data analysis techniques to collect, organize, interpret, and present data, resulting in a 20% reduction in operating costs.”

3. Problem-solving: “Identified issues in the production process, analyzed potential solutions, and implemented the most effective course of action, resulting in a 15% increase in productivity.”

4. Decision-making: “Made informed decisions by choosing the most appropriate option among various alternatives based on relevant information, resulting in a 25% increase in customer satisfaction.”

5. Research: “Conducted extensive research on market trends and customer preferences, interpreted the data, and drew conclusions that informed the development of new products, resulting in a 30% increase in sales.”

Related: Top Transferable Skills Every Company Wants

Analytical Skills Examples

Research and data analysis.

In your research and data analysis efforts, you can showcase your analytical skills by gathering relevant information, processing it, and drawing conclusions from the findings. For example:

• Conducting market research to identify trends and patterns
• Analyzing data to determine effectiveness of an advertising campaign
• Utilizing statistical software to evaluate data and make predictions

Critical Thinking

Critical thinking involves analyzing information, considering alternative viewpoints, and making informed decisions. Examples of using critical thinking skills include:

• Evaluating the pros and cons before making a decision
• Recognizing potential pitfalls or inconsistencies in a plan
• Identifying and questioning assumptions in an argument

Problem-Solving

Problem-solving requires identifying issues, generating potential solutions, and selecting the most appropriate course of action. Some examples of problem-solving skills in action are:

• Troubleshooting technical issues by systematically examining components
• Resolving customer complaints by finding mutually beneficial solutions
• Implementing new processes to increase efficiency and reduce errors

Communication

Effective communication is a vital analytical skill, as it enables you to convey your findings and ideas to others. Through clear and concise presentations, you can demonstrate your ability to:

• Summarize complex data in easy-to-understand formats
• Explain your thought process while reaching a decision
• Collaborate with team members to formulate plans and solve problems

Analytical Skills Examples for Different Industries

Analytical skills in marketing: resume paragraph example.

“I possess strong analytical skills that allow me to understand consumer behavior and trends. I have experience utilizing statistical analysis to identify patterns in customer preferences and target campaigns effectively. This knowledge has allowed me to segment audiences, set priorities, and optimize marketing strategies, resulting in increased ROI and customer engagement.”

Analytical Skills in Finance: Resume Paragraph Example

“With my financial analytical skills, I am able to manage budgets, analyze balance sheets, and forecast revenue growth. I have experience utilizing financial models to assess investment opportunities, evaluate profitability, and perform risk assessments. This skill set has enabled me to make informed decisions that impact my organization’s financial health, resulting in increased profitability and stability.”

Analytical Skills in Sales: Resume Paragraph Example

“My analytical skills allow me to interpret sales data, identify trends, and forecast future demand. I have experience planning targeted sales strategies, allocating resources efficiently, and increasing overall productivity in the industry, resulting in increased sales revenue.”

Analytical Skills in Website Management: Resume Paragraph Example

“I possess strong analytical skills that allow me to analyze user behavior and site performance to optimize the user experience. I have experience tracking website metrics and probabilities to identify areas for improvement, drive more traffic, and engage users more effectively.”

Analytical Skills in Science and Research: Resume Paragraph Example

“I possess essential analytical skills for designing experiments, interpreting data, and drawing informed conclusions. I have experience critically analyzing research findings and challenging existing models to drive innovation and advancements in my field.”

Demonstrating Analytical Skills

To showcase your analytical skills in your resume, include them in the Skills section as bullet points. Be specific, mentioning the particular analytical abilities you excel in. For instance:

• Data analysis
• Critical thinking
• Problem-solving

Next, incorporate your analytical skills within your Work Experience section. Use action verbs and quantify your accomplishments wherever possible. Here’s an example:

• “Analyzed market trends to increase sales by 20% in Q3”

Cover Letter

Your cover letter offers an opportunity to provide context and examples of how you’ve utilized your analytical skills in the past. Choose a specific experience or project to discuss, and demonstrate how your skills contributed to its success. For example:

“In my previous role as a Market Analyst at X Company, I employed my data analysis skills to identify business growth opportunities. I assessed customer feedback and sales data, allowing us to better target our marketing efforts and resulting in a 15% increase in customer satisfaction.”

Job Interview

During the job interview, be prepared to provide concrete examples of how you’ve applied your analytical skills. Use the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method to describe a particular scenario in which you demonstrated your abilities:

• Situation : Explain the context or challenge you faced
• Task : Describe the goal you were trying to achieve
• Action : Express the specific steps you took, emphasizing your analytical skills
• Result : Share the positive outcome achieved

For example:

“In my last position as a Financial Analyst, I was tasked with identifying cost-saving measures for our department. I meticulously reviewed budget reports and discovered discrepancies in vendor billing. By negotiating new contracts, we managed to save the company $50,000 annually.”

Developing and Enhancing Analytical Skills

Improving critical and analytical thinking.

To improve your critical and analytical thinking skills, start by questioning assumptions and evaluating the source of information. Expand your knowledge base by reading diverse materials and participating in discussions with individuals who have different perspectives. Utilize activities such as puzzles, brainteasers, and strategy games to challenge your brain further. Also, think critically about your own beliefs and decisions to foster self-awareness, humility, and open-mindedness.

Problem-Solving Techniques

Effective problem-solving techniques include breaking down complex issues into smaller, more manageable components and analyzing each independently. This approach allows you to systematically address challenges step-by-step. Additionally, brainstorm various potential solutions, considering both conventional and unconventional ideas. After identifying possible options, evaluate the pros and cons of each, and select the most viable ones to implement.

Related: Top Problem-Solving Skills for Today’s Job Market

The Role of Soft and Hard Skills

As you develop your analytical skills, it’s important to understand the roles of both soft and hard skills. Soft skills pertain to your interpersonal, communication, and collaborative abilities, which contribute to your overall effectiveness in the workplace. On the other hand, hard skills or technical skills refer to the specific capabilities you possess, such as programming, data analysis, or expertise in a particular software.

A well-rounded professional should have a combination of both soft and hard skills. To effectively analyze data, interpret findings, and solve complex problems, you need not only the technical expertise but also the communication and relationship-building skills to work with others.

In the context of analytical skills, examples of soft skills include critical thinking, problem-solving, and adaptability. These abilities allow you to see beyond the numbers, identify patterns, and anticipate how changes in one area may affect another. Additionally, communication and collaboration skills are key for working in a team setting, understanding different perspectives, and finding the best solution. Related: What Are Soft Skills? (and How to Showcase Them)

Examples of hard skills related to analytical skills include data processing, statistical analysis, and experience with analytical tools like Excel or SQL. These technical abilities enable you to gather, process, and analyze data more efficiently and accurately, helping you produce valuable insights for your team and organization. Related: Technical Skills Examples for Resume and List of 21 Important Technical Skills (with Examples)

To showcase your analytical skills in a job application, consider mentioning specific instances where you applied your analytical abilities, such as solving a complex issue or improving a process through data-driven insights. Provide examples that demonstrate your proficiency in relevant technical tools or software.

The Importance of Analytical Skills in the Workplace

As an employee, your ability to process and interpret information allows you to make well-informed decisions, spot trends, and tackle complex problems.

One of the key aspects of analytical skills is decision-making . In any job, your ability to make sound decisions in a timely manner will contribute to your success. By breaking down complex information and identifying patterns, you can draw from a rich pool of knowledge and make confident choices that benefit both your team and your organization.

As you hone your analytical skills, you’ll understand more effectively how to process the deluge of information present in today’s work environment. Whether you’re dealing with data, reports, or research, your ability to extract meaningful insights will allow you to add value to projects and deliver results that have a tangible impact.

Related: Effective Decision Making Process: 7 Steps with Examples

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some common examples of analytical skills.

Some common examples of analytical skills include: problem-solving, critical thinking, data analysis, decision-making, systems thinking, research, attention to detail, and forecasting. These skills allow you to effectively gather, interpret, and apply information to understand complex situations and make well-informed decisions.

How do you demonstrate analytical skills in a job interview?

During a job interview, you can demonstrate your analytical skills by:

• Sharing specific examples of how you used analytical skills to solve a problem or make a decision in your past work experiences.
• Highlighting projects or tasks where you had to analyze data, identify patterns, and derive conclusions.
• Discussing tools and techniques you have used for data analysis, such as spreadsheets, statistical software, or analytical frameworks.
• Explaining your thought process in real-time when answering situational or problem-solving interview questions.

What are the key differences between analytical skills and critical thinking?

Analytical skills involve techniques for gathering, organizing, interpreting, and drawing conclusions from data and information, while critical thinking is a broader skill that includes the ability to question assumptions, evaluate arguments, and make informed judgments based on evidence and sound reasoning.

How do analytical skills benefit workplace performance?

Analytical skills can improve workplace performance by:

• Enhancing decision-making processes, leading to more informed and effective choices.
• Identifying patterns and trends in data that can inform future planning or strategies.
• Improving troubleshooting and problem-solving abilities, helping to resolve issues more efficiently.
• Increasing innovation and creativity by encouraging systematic exploration of ideas and synthesis of new insights.

Which professions require strong analytical skills?

Professions that often require strong analytical skills include: data analysts, finance professionals, business analysts, marketers, economists, scientists, engineers, healthcare professionals, and project managers. However, analytical skills can be valuable assets in virtually any industry and role, as they are crucial for problem-solving and effective decision-making.

What are some effective ways to develop and enhance analytical skills?

To develop and enhance your analytical skills, consider the following:

• Engaging in activities that require data analysis, such as working on projects, participating in clubs or organizations, or volunteering in relevant fields.
• Taking courses or attending workshops on subjects like statistics, logic, data visualization, and related topics.
• Practicing problem-solving techniques, such as breaking down complex issues into smaller components or using models and frameworks to guide your thinking.
• Seeking feedback on your work and learning from experience, as well as observing and learning from professionals with strong analytical skills.
• Top Problem Solving Skills for Today's Job Market
• 37 Analytical Skills Self Evaluation Comments Examples
• Self Evaluation Examples [Complete Guide]

Research Analyst Skills

Learn about the skills that will be most essential for Research Analysts in 2024.

Getting Started as a Research Analyst

• What is a Research Analyst
• How To Become
• Certifications
• Tools & Software
• LinkedIn Guide
• Interview Questions
• Work-Life Balance
• Professional Goals
• Resume Examples
• Cover Letter Examples

What Skills Does a Research Analyst Need?

Find the important skills for any job.

Types of Skills for Research Analysts

Critical thinking and analytical skills, technical proficiency and data management, quantitative research and statistical knowledge, communication and visualization, industry knowledge and business acumen, top hard skills for research analysts.

• Critical Thinking and Analytical Reasoning
• Effective Communication

Attention to Detail

• Problem-Solving
• Adaptability and Flexibility
• Time Management and Prioritization
• Collaboration and Teamwork
• Creativity and Innovation
• Emotional Intelligence
• Persuasion and Negotiation

Top Soft Skills for Research Analysts

• Data Collection and Management
• Statistical Analysis and Quantitative Methods
• Data Visualization and Reporting
• Advanced Excel and Spreadsheet Proficiency
• Database Management and SQL
• Programming Skills in Python or R
• Econometrics and Modeling Techniques
• Machine Learning and Predictive Analytics
• Survey Design and Implementation
• Big Data Analytics Tools (e.g., Hadoop, Spark)

Most Important Research Analyst Skills in 2024

Advanced analytical proficiency, critical thinking and problem solving, technological savvy, effective communication and storytelling, industry-specific knowledge, quantitative research methodologies, adaptability and continuous learning.

Show the Right Skills in Every Application

Research analyst skills by experience level, important skills for entry-level research analysts, important skills for mid-level research analysts, important skills for senior research analysts, most underrated skills for research analysts, 1. intellectual curiosity, 2. effective communication, 3. active listening, how to demonstrate your skills as a research analyst in 2024, how you can upskill as a research analyst.

• Master Advanced Data Analytics Tools: Invest time in learning cutting-edge data analysis software and platforms that are becoming industry standards, to handle large datasets more efficiently.
• Develop Proficiency in Statistical Programming: Gain expertise in programming languages such as R or Python, which are essential for complex data manipulation and analysis.
• Expand Your Knowledge in Machine Learning: Explore machine learning techniques to uncover deeper insights from data and stay competitive in the field of advanced analytics.
• Enroll in Specialized Research Methodology Courses: Keep abreast of the latest research methodologies by taking courses from accredited institutions or online learning platforms.
• Build a Strong Foundation in Data Ethics: Understand the ethical implications of data handling and analysis to ensure integrity and trustworthiness in your research.
• Participate in Research Forums and Networks: Engage with the research community through forums, webinars, and professional networks to exchange ideas and stay informed about industry trends.
• Seek Opportunities for Collaborative Research: Collaborate with peers from different disciplines to broaden your perspective and enhance your analytical skills.
• Attend Industry-Specific Seminars and Conferences: Stay updated on sector-specific insights and developments by attending relevant events, which can also serve as networking opportunities.
• Focus on Effective Communication of Findings: Improve your ability to communicate complex data and analysis clearly to stakeholders through visualization tools and storytelling techniques.
• Embrace Continuous Learning: Dedicate time to reading academic journals, industry reports, and books to keep your knowledge current and comprehensive.

Skill FAQs for Research Analysts

What are the emerging skills for research analysts today, how can research analysts effectivley develop their soft skills, how important is technical expertise for research analysts.

Research Analyst Education

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Start Your Research Analyst Career with Teal

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Analytical Research: What is it, Importance + Examples

Finding knowledge is a loose translation of the word “research.” It’s a systematic and scientific way of researching a particular subject. As a result, research is a form of scientific investigation that seeks to learn more. Analytical research is one of them.

Any kind of research is a way to learn new things. In this research, data and other pertinent information about a project are assembled; after the information is gathered and assessed, the sources are used to support a notion or prove a hypothesis.

An individual can successfully draw out minor facts to make more significant conclusions about the subject matter by using critical thinking abilities (a technique of thinking that entails identifying a claim or assumption and determining whether it is accurate or untrue).

What is analytical research?

This particular kind of research calls for using critical thinking abilities and assessing data and information pertinent to the project at hand.

Determines the causal connections between two or more variables. The analytical study aims to identify the causes and mechanisms underlying the trade deficit’s movement throughout a given period.

It is used by various professionals, including psychologists, doctors, and students, to identify the most pertinent material during investigations. One learns crucial information from analytical research that helps them contribute fresh concepts to the work they are producing.

Some researchers perform it to uncover information that supports ongoing research to strengthen the validity of their findings. Other scholars engage in analytical research to generate fresh perspectives on the subject.

Various approaches to performing research include literary analysis, Gap analysis , general public surveys, clinical trials, and meta-analysis.

Importance of analytical research

The goal of analytical research is to develop new ideas that are more believable by combining numerous minute details.

The analytical investigation is what explains why a claim should be trusted. Finding out why something occurs is complex. You need to be able to evaluate information critically and think critically. 

This kind of information aids in proving the validity of a theory or supporting a hypothesis. It assists in recognizing a claim and determining whether it is true.

Analytical kind of research is valuable to many people, including students, psychologists, marketers, and others. It aids in determining which advertising initiatives within a firm perform best. In the meantime, medical research and research design determine how well a particular treatment does.

Thus, analytical research can help people achieve their goals while saving lives and money.

Methods of Conducting Analytical Research

Analytical research is the process of gathering, analyzing, and interpreting information to make inferences and reach conclusions. Depending on the purpose of the research and the data you have access to, you can conduct analytical research using a variety of methods. Here are a few typical approaches:

Quantitative research

Numerical data are gathered and analyzed using this method. Statistical methods are then used to analyze the information, which is often collected using surveys, experiments, or pre-existing datasets. Results from quantitative research can be measured, compared, and generalized numerically.

Qualitative research

In contrast to quantitative research, qualitative research focuses on collecting non-numerical information. It gathers detailed information using techniques like interviews, focus groups, observations, or content research. Understanding social phenomena, exploring experiences, and revealing underlying meanings and motivations are all goals of qualitative research.

Mixed methods research

This strategy combines quantitative and qualitative methodologies to grasp a research problem thoroughly. Mixed methods research often entails gathering and evaluating both numerical and non-numerical data, integrating the results, and offering a more comprehensive viewpoint on the research issue.

Experimental research

Experimental research is frequently employed in scientific trials and investigations to establish causal links between variables. This approach entails modifying variables in a controlled environment to identify cause-and-effect connections. Researchers randomly divide volunteers into several groups, provide various interventions or treatments, and track the results.

Observational research

With this approach, behaviors or occurrences are observed and methodically recorded without any outside interference or variable data manipulation . Both controlled surroundings and naturalistic settings can be used for observational research . It offers useful insights into behaviors that occur in the actual world and enables researchers to explore events as they naturally occur.

Case study research

This approach entails thorough research of a single case or a small group of related cases. Case-control studies frequently include a variety of information sources, including observations, records, and interviews. They offer rich, in-depth insights and are particularly helpful for researching complex phenomena in practical settings.

Secondary data analysis

Examining secondary information is time and money-efficient, enabling researchers to explore new research issues or confirm prior findings. With this approach, researchers examine previously gathered information for a different reason. Information from earlier cohort studies, accessible databases, or corporate documents may be included in this.

Content analysis

Content research is frequently employed in social sciences, media observational studies, and cross-sectional studies. This approach systematically examines the content of texts, including media, speeches, and written documents. Themes, patterns, or keywords are found and categorized by researchers to make inferences about the content.

Depending on your research objectives, the resources at your disposal, and the type of data you wish to analyze, selecting the most appropriate approach or combination of methodologies is crucial to conducting analytical research.

Examples of analytical research

Analytical research takes a unique measurement. Instead, you would consider the causes and changes to the trade imbalance. Detailed statistics and statistical checks help guarantee that the results are significant.

For example, it can look into why the value of the Japanese Yen has decreased. This is so that an analytical study can consider “how” and “why” questions.

Another example is that someone might conduct analytical research to identify a study’s gap. It presents a fresh perspective on your data. Therefore, it aids in supporting or refuting notions.

Descriptive vs analytical research

Here are the key differences between descriptive research and analytical research:

The study of cause and effect makes extensive use of analytical research. It benefits from numerous academic disciplines, including marketing, health, and psychology, because it offers more conclusive information for addressing research issues.

QuestionPro offers solutions for every issue and industry, making it more than just survey software. For handling data, we also have systems like our InsightsHub research library.

You may make crucial decisions quickly while using QuestionPro to understand your clients and other study subjects better. Make use of the possibilities of the enterprise-grade research suite right away!

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Analytical Skills with Examples for your Resume

Gimena Aguerreberry August 13, 2021

Analytical skills are the abilities that allow you to collect, organize, visualize, and assimilate data. They let you see patterns, draw conclusions, and find solutions. That’s why it’s very hard to find a job offer where analytical skills aren’t listed among the employer’s requirements.

Analytical skills consist of a set of abilities . That's why we’re talking about skills, not a single skill. They can be treated as an umbrella term for a set of different abilities.

Testing Analytical Skills

If you were to test for analytical skills you might be asked to take a series of events and put them in proper sequence, look for advertisement inconsistencies, or read an essay with a critical eye.

There are generally standardized tests used as a guideline. In all instances, analytical skills require you to dissect a problem and then find a solution for that problem.

There are many skills required within a company and its workforce, but analytical skills are essential in every organization.

Interview questions to determine your analytical skills

The following are some job interview questions to probe these skills of a candidate.

What would be the steps you would follow to study a problem and then make a final judgment on it?

Talk to me about a time when you discovered a more efficient method to carry out a particular work-related task.

Can you give me an example of a smaller problem than you identified and fixed before it could turn into a major problem?

Do you recall a problem you analyzed that required a quick and easy solution?

What is the most complex analytical assignment you have undertaken to date?

Highlighting Analytical Skills in your Job search

it's best to highlight these skills when you're applying and interviewing for jobs. Consider the following:

Adding relevant skills to your resume : Keywords are an essential component of a resume, as hiring managers use the words and phrases of a resume and cover letter to screen job applicants.

Highlighting skills in your cover letter : Mention your skills and give specific examples of a time when you demonstrated those skills.

Provide examples in your job interview: They can be from past work, volunteer, or school experiences.

Top Analytical Skills to Include on a Resume

1. critical thinking skills.

Although this is often confused with analytical thinking, it’s still important to show the employer that you possess critical thinking as it supports analytical skills.

Example: "When faced with challenges, I think critically to analyze the best approach and overcome obstacles."

2. Problem Solving

Show how you were faced with an issue and used analytical thinking to come up with a solution. A problem solver is always a great addition to any team.

Example: "Adept at solving complex problems by utilizing a combination of research, creativity, and critical thinking."

3. Planning

Planning and organizing an event, presentation or campaign is an excellent way to show analytical skills.

Example: "Possesses the ability to prioritize important tasks and projects to help increase overall productivity."

4. Research

Conducting research and digging for facts to come up with a conclusion. This really stresses analytical skills.

Example: "Possesses an in-depth knowledge of industry standards and best practices, as well as the ability to seek support through research and outreach when needed to effectively complete tasks."

5. Complexity

Handling something complex or technical shows analytical skills as it requires much thought, knowledge, and analysis.

Example: "Developed a guide to easily explain complex principles for students."

Final Thoughts

A myriad of workplace scenarios requires the use of analytical skills. Everything from the basic brainstorming of ideas to solving complex problems utilizes analytical skills.

Employers don’t expect their employees to know everything. However, they do expect them to be able to try and figure out what to do whenever they’re unsure about something or don’t know where to start with a specific project or task. Showcasing the ability to perform in this way on your resume means analytical skills must be included.

What Is The Best Way To Practice Problem Solving Skills

No matter your title or job description, the ability to find the root cause of a difficult problem and formulate viable solutions is a skill that employers value.

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