Keeping Data Science Simple

Keeping Data Science SimpleSam WilkinsonBlockedUnblockFollowFollowingApr 7Data Science is a field filled with fancy sounding things.

Concepts both simple and complex get cool names, and let you make claims like being “Powered by AI”.

While this isn’t necessarily a problem, it can mislead aspiring Data Scientists.

Like any field, fancy names and complex concepts get much of the attention.

This can help give the impression that cutting edge modeling is where the party is at.

However, Data Science isn’t all about who’s got the most convolutional neural networks or the deepest learning.

Crazy AI skills may prove valuable in certain situations, but Data Science is about picking the right tool for the job and using it effectively to solve real world problems.

That last part, solving real world problems, should always the ultimate goal.

Consistently hitting that goal is the foundation of a Data Science career.

To help form that foundation, there are three simple steps to follow,Focus on solving real world problems, while measuring your solution.

Pick the right tool for the job, which is probably the simplest.

Repeat consistently.

Keep it simpleThe right tool for the job is often the simplest one, at least at first.

Complex models break, their behaviour can be hard to develop an intuition for, and implementing them is time consuming.

Focus on simplicity and you’ll start more projects, which will themselves probably have a higher success rate.

When it comes to starting a career in Data Science, having a track record of providing real world value will give you a tremendous boost.

An education in machine learning, statistics, or programming will provide you with an essential base of skills, but proving you can apply those skills to real world problems and communicate your solution effectively is far more valuable.

Starting simple projects and seeing them through to the end will help you build that track record.

A project can start as simple as a SQL query, so try making a list of possible projects in and out of your company and having a go at each.

Generating and measuring value should take precedent over almost everything.

It’s important to remember that how you measure your solution depends on what problem you’re trying to solve.

If I’m trying to create a mortgage approval model, I probably care more about correctly screening out fraudsters than mistakenly rejecting those with good intentions.

How I measure my solution should reflect those priorities.

This approach isn’t just the best way to build a portfolio; it’s a vital part of any Data Science work.

Talk to stakeholders, get to the root of a problem, and find the best way to measure the value your solution provides.

SummaryIf you’re looking to break into Data Science, find real world problems and aim to make a dent in them as quickly as you can.

The simplest method will help you finish more of what you start, and get you to a result faster.

It’s important to build a solid base of skills, but being able to show what impact you’ve had with your skills is far more valuable than how exciting they sound.

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