Business Analyst Roadmap
Business Analyst Roadmap
ROADMAP 2024/2025
Kickstart your Data Analytics Career in 3 months with this comprehensive end-to-end
Roadmap!!
Designed to help you learn data analyst skills from the ground up, this detailed guide covers
everything you need including:
* Note: The minimum and maximum salary ranges vary depending on the type of company.
Product companies typically offer 25-50% higher salaries compared to service-based or
consulting companies *
zZ
Roadmap to Landing a New Role
Data Analyst/ Business Analyst
Technical Skill #1 - Excel (Basic + Advanced)
Excel is essential for Data Analysts because it offers powerful tools for data manipulation,
analysis, visualization, and reporting, making complex data insights accessible and actionable.
Topics Covered :
● Basic formulas: Learn essential functions like SUM, AVERAGE, MEAN, MEDIAN,
SUMPRODUCT, CONCATENATE.
● Advanced formulas: Explore functions such as VLOOKUP, INDEX, MATCH, IF, COUNTIF,
SUMIF for more complex calculations.
● Data Management: Remove duplicates and apply conditional formatting to enhance data
clarity.
● Data Visualization: Master creating charts, applying filters, sorting data, and utilizing
slicers for effective visual representation.
● Pivot Tables and Charts: Understand the power of pivot tables and pivot charts for
dynamic data analysis and reporting.
● Additional Topics: Explore data validation, named ranges, and array formulas for
advanced data manipulation and analysis.
2. Data Validation
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nMxl1_NAcxc
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SlWIgMFpsPg
3. Excel Slicers, EVERYTHING You Need to Know - includes workbook with step by
step instructions
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2H7aOHKZ6PY&t=235s
** Additional Resources **
1. IBM Data Analysis in Excel & R Certificate
https://www.coursera.org/learn/excel-basics-data-analysis-ibm
2. Analysing Data with Excel | IBM
https://www.edx.org/learn/excel/ibm-analyzing-data-with-excel/
** Certificates **
1. Excel for Data Analysis
https://www.coursera.org/professional-certificates/ibm-data-analyst-r-excel
Technical Skill #2 - SQL (Most Important)
SQL is crucial for Data Analysts as it enables efficient querying, manipulation, and analysis of
large datasets to derive actionable insights.
From Day 1 to Day 8, start by covering SQL theory thoroughly. After that, dive into solving
practical questions on LeetCode.
Topics Covered :
● Basic SQL Queries: Learn to write SELECT statements, filter data with WHERE, and
sort results using ORDER BY.
● Joins: Understand INNER JOIN, LEFT JOIN, RIGHT JOIN, and FULL JOIN to combine
data from multiple tables.
● Aggregations: Use functions like COUNT, SUM, AVG, MIN, and MAX to perform
calculations on data sets.
● Group By: Aggregate data using GROUP BY to summarize information and use HAVING
to filter aggregated results.
● Subqueries and CTEs: Implement subqueries and Common Table Expressions (CTEs)
for complex queries and improved readability.
● Data Modification: Perform data insertion (INSERT), updates (UPDATE), and deletions
(DELETE) to manage data.
● Indexes and Performance: Optimize query performance by understanding indexes and
query execution plans.
6. Introduction to Structured Query Language | All Points regarding its Features and
Syllabus
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=323H_mOOWQ4
4. SQL Select Statement Tutorial | SQL Select Query Explained | SQL Tutorial For
Beginners | SimpliCode
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1cWUUELO42c&t=728s
1. Inner Join, Left Join, Right Join and Full Outer Join in SQL Server | SQL Server
Joins
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KTvYHEntvn8
2. How to Join two or more than two Tables using multiple columns | How to Join
Multiple Tables #Joins
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5OpBjU-OWh8
3. SQL Aggregate Functions - SUM, AVG(n), COUNT, MIN, MAX Functions | DBMS
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yr4pHPZCshA
4. SQL WITH Clause | How to write SQL Queries using WITH Clause | SQL CTE
(Common Table Expression)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QNfnuK-1YYY
5. CTE in SQL
https://www.geeksforgeeks.org/cte-in-sql/
6. CTE (Common Table Expression) IN SQL With Examples| ADVANCE SQL TUTORIAL
https://www.geeksforgeeks.org/cte-in-sql/
From Day 1 to Day 5, focus on covering your SQL theory. Once you've completed the
theory, install MySQL on your system and start solving LeetCode questions. Follow
these steps to get started
Now that you have MySQL installed on your system, you can run SQL code end-to-end.
You also have a list of questions and answers from the downloaded LeetCode Q&A PDF.
Practice these questions on your system to build your skills
https://topmate.io/mazher_khan/918497
Topics Covered :
● Python Basics: Understand data types, variables, control structures (loops, conditionals),
and basic functions.
● Data Manipulation with Pandas: Use DataFrames for data cleaning, transformation, and
aggregation. Learn to handle missing values and merge datasets.
● Data Visualization: Create visualizations using libraries like Matplotlib, Seaborn, or Plotly
to represent data insights.
● Statistical Analysis: Perform statistical operations such as hypothesis testing, correlation,
and regression using libraries like SciPy or StatsModels.
● Data Import and Export: Import data from various sources (CSV, Excel, SQL databases)
and export data to different formats.
● Handling Large Datasets: Use libraries like Dask or PySpark for working with large
volumes of data and parallel processing.
1. What is Python?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WvhQhj4n6b8
3. How to download and install Jupyter Notebook for Windows 10 / 11 with Python
tutorial
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HLD-Ll_-IT4
4. Install Anaconda Python, Jupyter Notebook And Spyder on Mac / MacOS (2024)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=drbaFALFKDg
1. Functions in Python
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dyvxxJSGUsE
2. Lambda() Function
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LQatU6WFZiM
1. Python Lists
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lFzHFUvGL7I
2. Python Dictionaries
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LTXnQdrwyrw
3. Python Tuples
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wRC4H-k57eg
4. Python Sets
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3R3h5ly_8g
2. Pandas Functions - Python CSV File Reading and Writing Complete Tutorial
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cD4Hw8_bdMc
Power BI is important for Data Analysts because it enables them to visualize, analyze, and
share data insights quickly and interactively, enhancing data-driven decision-making
Topics Covered :
● Data Import and Transformation: Import data from various sources (Excel, SQL, APIs)
and use Power Query for data cleaning and transformation.
● Data Modeling: Create relationships between tables, define measures and calculated
columns using DAX (Data Analysis Expressions).
● Visualizations: Design interactive reports and dashboards using various visualization
types like charts, maps, tables, and slicers.
● Custom Calculations: Implement custom calculations and aggregations using DAX
functions for advanced data analysis.
● Power BI Service: Publish and share reports, collaborate with team members, and set
up scheduled data refreshes in the Power BI service.
● Performance Optimization: Optimize report performance by using efficient data
modeling techniques, aggregations, and reducing complex calculation
2. Master Scatterplots
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EMpebK1PzIE
5. Custom Visuals
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zue_bygNx7k
5. INCREMENTAL REFRESH
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fZVtlckIYvY
Coursework #1 - Maths & Statistics
Maths and Statistics are crucial for Data Analysts as they provide the foundation for
data interpretation, predictive modeling, and making data-driven decisions with
accuracy and confidence.
To master these topics, you can download my comprehensive Maths & Statistics Notes, which
cover everything you need—no need to look elsewhere.
https://topmate.io/mazher_khan/912858
1. Binomial distribution
2. Poisson distribution
3. Normal distribution
4. Properties of the normal curve
5. Z-scores and probability calculations
A/B testing is crucial for data analysts as it enables data-driven decision-making by comparing
different variables to identify the most effective options.
To master these topics, you can download my comprehensive AB Testing Notes, which cover
everything you need—no need to look elsewhere.
https://topmate.io/mazher_khan/988143
Machine learning is essential for data analysts as it allows them to build predictive
models and uncover insights from data patterns to drive informed business decisions
1. Decision Trees and Random Forests: Decision Trees: Basic structure, splitting criteria
Ensemble method, combining multiple decision trees for improved performance and
generalization.
1. Model Performance Metrics: Accuracy, precision, recall, F1-score, ROC curve, and AUC
Understand when to use each metric based on the problem context
2. Feature Engineering and Selection: Transforming raw data into features that better
represent the underlying problem to improve model accuracy.
How to learn the above topics? : Google or YouTube the above topics
Coursework #1 - Guesstimates
Guesstimates assess your ability to make logical assumptions and perform estimations, which is
crucial for handling incomplete or ambiguous data and making informed decisions based on
rough calculations.
Sample Questions:
2. Make Assumptions:
● Identify and state any assumptions you need to make to solve the problem.
● Be reasonable and logical in your assumptions. Make sure they are realistic and
justifiable.
4. Perform Calculations:
● Review your calculations and assumptions to check for accuracy and reasonableness.
● Adjust your estimates if necessary and ensure that the final answer makes sense in the
context of the problem.
● Present your answer along with a brief explanation of your assumptions and
calculations.
● Highlight the key steps you took to arrive at the solution.
To master solving Guesstimates, you can download my comprehensive end-to-end Case Study
PDF with Guesstimates etc. which covers everything you need—no need to look elsewhere.
https://topmate.io/mazher_khan/912512
**Please note that these notes are PAID, as I personally purchase a subscription worth 25,000 INR and
create hand-made notes. You won't find such comprehensive notes compiled in one place anywhere else.
The value is worth it**
Case Studies evaluate your analytical thinking and problem-solving approach, helping
interviewers understand how you apply data-driven insights to real-world business problems,
manage complex scenarios, and derive actionable solutions.
Sample Questions:
To master solving Case Studies, you can download my comprehensive end-to-end Case Study
PDF with Guesstimates etc. which cover everything you need—no need to look elsewhere.
https://topmate.io/mazher_khan/912512
**Please note that these notes are paid, as I purchase a subscription worth 25,000 INR and create
hand-made notes. You won't find such comprehensive notes compiled in one place anywhere else. The
value is worth it**
Coursework #3 - Puzzles
Puzzles test your creative problem-solving skills and logical reasoning, providing insight into
how you approach complex issues, think critically, and find innovative solutions.
Puzzles are commonly asked during college campus hiring and by companies such as
American Express, Wells Fargo, and EXL.
A top resource for practicing puzzles is the GeeksforGeeks website, which offers a collection of
70+ puzzles. Be sure to solve all of them to prepare effectively.
https://www.geeksforgeeks.org/puzzles/
Behavioral Questions explore how you handle various workplace situations, your teamwork and
communication skills, and your ability to navigate challenges and conflicts effectively.
The listed 32 questions are sufficient to crack any Analyst job interview. To answer these
questions, you have to follow the STAR method:
You can refer to my notes for reference. I have written the questions with answers based on my
experience.
https://topmate.io/mazher_khan/1004369
1. Validation of Skills: Certificates prove your proficiency in specific tools and techniques.
2. Credibility: They enhance your resume by showing formal training and meeting industry
standards.
3. Competitive Edge: They help you stand out in a crowded job market.
4. Benchmarking: Certificates align your skills with industry expectations.
5. Confidence Boost: They ensure your abilities and knowledge during interviews.
If you're currently employed, you can showcase the existing projects of your company,
whether they're related to reporting, ad-hoc analysis, or other tasks.
If you're a fresher, you can refer to the following links for end-to-end project examples.
1. https://youtu.be/MaaphT465_I?si=NQ_zzQ1RZ76A03lY
2. https://youtu.be/TM4O9x8kBvg?si=Z3yaMYYBrnYYuVQt
3. https://youtu.be/qfyynHBFOsM?si=po1pfsXQByBfmO07
4. E-commerce Project (Very Popular)
https://github.com/aaronzguan/Online-Shopping-Cart-Database-Project.gi
t
5. Railway management system
https://github.com/aaryanrr/RailwayMGMT.git
6. Road Safety Dataset
7. https://github.com/ptyadana/SQL-Data-Analysis-and-Visualization-Project
s/
8. European Soccer Game Analysis
https://www.kaggle.com/dimarudov/data-analysis-using-sql/data
9. World Population Dataset
https://github.com/LoicChamplong/Data-Analysis-SQL/tree/master/Analy
sis_of_the_2015_World_population
10. Top 5 Data Analytics Projects with Resources | Projects for Beginners |
Rishabh Mishra
11. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TM4O9x8kBvg
12. Sql - Data analysis practice/project
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1pHYKdyRvrw&list=PLRY-AYJzifh2rP
Hy6xtPSwwl-jTW_DMQm&index=2
13. You can download one Gen-AI Project which I did from here:
https://topmate.io/mazher_khan/1150096
1. Download my CV template (Senior Data Analyst - 6 years) from here :
https://topmate.io/mazher_khan/947702
3. Resources :
1. Create the Perfect Data Analyst Resume
https://youtu.be/WizLaDdsHUs?si=Y2B1wfKLNW4KUN4Q
2. How To Write a Data Analyst Resume To Get A Job
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iII7vvYRxHE
1. Tailor Your Resume: Customize your resume for each job application by highlighting
relevant skills and experiences specific to the job description.
2. Use Action Verbs: Start bullet points with strong action verbs like "achieved," "developed,"
or "led" to convey your accomplishments.
3. Quantify Achievements: Include specific metrics, numbers, or percentages to
demonstrate the impact of your work.
4. Keep It Concise: Aim for a clear and concise format, ideally one page for early-career
professionals and up to two pages for those with more experience.
5. Highlight Key Skills: Emphasize both technical and soft skills that are crucial for the role
you're applying for.
6. Include Keywords: Use keywords from the job description to pass Applicant Tracking
Systems (ATS) and capture the recruiter’s attention.
7. Professional Formatting: Use a clean, professional layout with consistent fonts, bullet
points, and spacing for easy readability.
8. Showcase Relevant Experience: Focus on your most relevant job experiences, projects,
and accomplishments that align with the job you're applying for.
9. Include a Summary Statement: Start with a summary or objective statement that
highlights your career goals and key strengths.
10. Proofread Carefully: Ensure there are no typos, grammatical errors, or inconsistencies by
proofreading your resume thoroughly or having someone else review it.
1. Profile Summary
● LinkedIn: Craft a compelling headline that clearly states your role, skills, and key
achievements. Use keywords related to Data Analysis to increase visibility in search
results.
● Naukri/Job Portals: Write a concise and impactful summary that highlights your
experience, skills, and career aspirations. Make sure to include keywords relevant to
Data Analysis roles.
2. Experience Section
● Detail Your Roles: For each position, provide a clear and concise description of your
responsibilities, achievements, and the impact you had. Use bullet points for better
readability.
● Quantify Achievements: Include specific metrics and examples (e.g., “Increased sales
forecasting accuracy by 20% through advanced statistical analysis”).
3. Skills and Endorsements
● Highlight Key Skills: List relevant skills such as SQL, Python, data visualization,
statistical analysis, and business intelligence tools. Ensure that these skills are aligned
with the job descriptions of the roles you are targeting.
● Get Endorsements: Seek endorsements from colleagues, mentors, or managers who
can vouch for your expertise in these areas.
● Showcase Certifications: Add any relevant certifications (e.g., Certified Data Analyst,
SQL Certification) to your profile. Ensure they are visible and up-to-date.
● Update Education: List your educational qualifications, including any relevant
coursework or projects that pertain to Data Analysis.
● Include Notable Projects: Highlight significant projects you’ve worked on. Provide a
brief description, of your role, and the outcomes achieved.
● Showcase Awards and Recognition: Add any awards or recognitions you’ve received
for your work in Data Analysis.
6. Recommendations
● Connect with Industry Professionals: Expand your network by connecting with other
Data Analysts, recruiters, and industry leaders.
● Engage with Content: Share relevant articles, write posts, and engage with content
related to Data Analysis to increase your visibility and showcase your expertise.
Applying for jobs randomly is not an effective approach. A better strategy, which I have
personally used, is to create a spreadsheet with a list of 400 companies, including the
following fields.
You can download the complete 400 companies list from here:-
https://topmate.io/mazher_khan/916331
You can apply to these companies through platforms like LinkedIn, Naukri, and
Instahyre. However, remember that NOT ALL companies, like Zomato etc, are
listed on job portals—some rely solely on referrals. So, connect with people on
LinkedIn or reach out to friends to secure referrals.
Use Below Message for Seeking Referral :
Hi [Name],
I hope this message finds you well. I came across an opening for [Position Name] at [Company
Name] and am very interested in applying. With my background in [briefly mention your
skills/experience relevant to the job], I believe I would be a great fit for this role.
I noticed that you are connected to [Company Name], and I would greatly appreciate it if you
could refer me for this position. I have attached my resume for your reference and would be
happy to provide any additional information needed.
Thank you for considering my request. I look forward to the possibility of connecting further.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Hi [Name],
I hope you are doing well. I wanted to follow up on my earlier message regarding the [Position
Name] role at [Company Name]. I am excited about this opportunity and believe my skills in
[mention key skills or experiences briefly] align well with the position.
If you are able to assist with the referral, I would greatly appreciate it. I understand that you may
have a busy schedule, so if there’s any additional information or support I can provide, please
let me know.
Thank you once again for considering my request, and I truly appreciate your time and help.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Interview preparation is a crucial step in your journey to securing a data analyst role. It
involves a structured approach to understanding the job requirements, refining your skills, and
practicing to present yourself confidently during interviews. Here's an in-depth guide to help you
prepare effectively:
I. Analyze Key Skills: Read the job description thoroughly to identify the required
skills, such as SQL, Excel, data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI),
Python, R, and statistics.
II. Identify Core Responsibilities: Understand the main responsibilities, such as
data cleaning, analysis, reporting, and presenting insights.
III. Research the Company: Learn about the company's business model, industry,
competitors, and the role of data analytics within the organization.
I. SQL Practice: SQL is a must-have skill for data analysts. Focus on queries,
joins, subqueries, window functions, and writing complex SQL code. Use
platforms like LeetCode, HackerRank, and Mode Analytics for practice.
II. Excel Skills: Master functions, pivot tables, VLOOKUP, data cleaning
techniques, and data visualization in Excel.
III. Data Visualization Tools: Gain proficiency in Tableau or Power BI. Practice
creating dashboards, using charts, and compellingly presenting data.
IV. Programming Languages: Brush up on Python basics, focusing on data
manipulation libraries like Pandas, and NumPy, and data visualization libraries
such as Matplotlib and Seaborn.
V. Statistics and Probability: Understand statistical concepts such as hypothesis
testing, confidence intervals, regression analysis, and A/B testing.
I. STAR Method: Prepare for behavioral questions using the STAR method (Situation,
Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers. Focus on examples that showcase
problem-solving, teamwork, and analytical skills.
II. Common Behavioral Questions:
○ Tell me about a time you used data to solve a problem.
○ Describe a challenging project and how you handled it.
○ How do you manage tight deadlines or conflicting priorities?
III. Prepare Your Stories: Have stories ready that highlight your key skills, such as
analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication.
● Guesstimates: Be ready for questions like "Estimate the market size of a product."
Practice structuring your approach logically and clearly.
● Case Studies: Companies may present real-life problems. Practice analyzing the data,
identifying the problem, and recommending data-driven solutions.
● Puzzles: Some companies like American Express and Wells Fargo ask for puzzles to
test your logical thinking. Practice common puzzles available on resources like Geeks for
Geeks.
5. Mock Interviews
● Simulate Real Interviews: Schedule mock interviews with mentors, and peers, or use
platforms like Pramp or Interviewing.io to simulate the interview environment.
● Get Feedback: Focus on improving based on the feedback received, especially on
areas where you lack confidence or need technical improvements.
● Ask Relevant Questions: Show your interest in the role by asking insightful questions,
such as:
○ What are the key metrics the team focuses on?
○ How does the team collaborate with other departments?
○ What challenges does the company face with data analytics?
● Prepare for SQL/Excel Tests: Many companies conduct technical tests to assess your
SQL, Excel, and sometimes Python skills. Practice similar problems to be well-prepared.
● Time Management: Practice solving problems within a set timeframe to simulate test
conditions.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MX6Ee_ubE1s
https://www.simplilearn.com/tutorials/data-analytics-tutorial/data-analyst-interview-questions
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h8cr-3vag7w
https://drive.google.com/file/d/10EcTK95VXc3yuLC2pgWsbp0XTznwbAYG/view
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✅ 1:1 Long Term Mentorship: 10+ individuals have successfully PLACED in top companies
like MasterCard, Uber, and Porter by enrolling in my 1:1 Mentorship program.
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSefKydr62VSD5b5H42FpFMkXMoEWuit0sUY
MVjsSUzwqfEQcA/viewform
✅ Book 1:1 Call (One-Time) for Career Guidance, CV Review, Interview etc.:
https://topmate.io/mazher_khan
✅ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@imzhr.
✅ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/khan.the.analyst/
✅ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mazher-khan/
1. Data Analyst ya Business Analyst Problem
2. Start with a Business Problem
3. No Degree Needed
4. Step me Detailed video banayi hai ..with All FREE Resources
5. Kitni Salary as a Fresher and kya career graph
6. Companies list me apply kr skte ho
7. Aur video k end mai maine Projects, Resume and Interview Tips Share kie hain
8. To Chlie Shuru krte hain
9. Requirement
10.
11.
12. Last me 1:1 Mentorship Enroll
13. Lets connect now!
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1n0TygV7CQLSdPABOSMEvamHbxaXy8cuu/view