DA103: Intro to Data Visualization
This course is part of the City of Santa Monica's Data Academy, a program of the Santa Monica Institute.
Data only comes alive and starts to tell a story when it can be experienced outside of spreadsheets and formulas. In this session, we will explore some of the fundamental concepts of data visualization and data storytelling. Then using Excel 2016, we will look at how to work with a few of the most common types of visualizations.
This class assumes basic familiarity with data concepts and Excel – data tables, spreadsheet layout, cell and range references, and formulas. If you need a quick Data and/or Excel refresher, consider our introductory-level DA101 series: Data Basics and Excel Basics.
A computer with Excel 2016 is required for this course. You may bring your own, and we'll have plenty available if you don't bring one.
Learning Objectives
- Understand how to interpret data visualizations and recognize common issues
- Learn about elements of data storytelling
- Understand common data visualization types and best practices, and how to create them using Excel
Course Materials
Essential Charts and Graphs (.xlsx)
Upcoming Session
Check My SMI for the latest schedule listings.