Benefits Qualificatins The ability to use data analytics to make better business decisions is a valuable skill that’s in high demand While freelance data analysts use the latest technology and software to glean helpful information from complex data, meaningful insights and solutions would not be possible without first possessing critical thinking skills Data visualization skills Data visualization allows freelancers to present complex information with shapes, sizes, colors, and text, allowing clients to grasp information quickly and make key decisions without delay While freelance data analysts aren’t required to be hard-core computer programmers, having familiarity with certain programming languages and being able to handle a straightforward programming fix is an invaluable skill to have Familiarity with SQL By knowing their way around an SQL database, freelance data analysts can maximize their value, creating client solutions that handle large volumes of data efficiently and through easy-to-use desktop database tools Data analysis and problem-solving are virtually interchangeable Whether building an SQL database or processing data through a business intelligence tool, project management skills are an essential capability for competitive freelance data analysts In addition to developing your skills via employer or client work, it is essential to obtain a degree and/or professional certification to help your Upwork profile stand out and ensure you have the most essential data analyst skills Bachelor’s degree or master’s degree in data science, mathematics, finance, statistics, computer science, economics, psychology, management information systems, or an equivalent in a related field of study from an accredited college or university Certification of Professional Achievement in Data Sciences—offered by Columbia University Data Science Institute