Data analyst or data scientist: what is the difference?

These titles are often mixed up, but the work is different.

• A data analyst collects, cleans and explains data using SQL, spreadsheets and visualisation tools.
• A data scientist often builds predictive models and needs stronger statistics and programming.
• Many people start as analysts and move to data science later.
• In both roles, SQL and clear communication matter.

Start with SQL and a visualisation tool, then decide.