Getting Started with AI Data Analysis

You don't need to be a data scientist to analyze data. AI tools like ChatGPT and Claude can help you understand your spreadsheets, find patterns, and create insights—all without writing a single line of code.

What AI Can Do With Your Data

AI assistants excel at:

• Summarizing large datasets into key takeaways
• Finding patterns and trends you might miss
• Answering questions about your data in plain English
• Creating reports and explanations for stakeholders
• Suggesting visualizations that tell your data's story
• Cleaning up messy or inconsistent data

Which AI Tool Should You Use?

ChatGPT (Plus or Team)

• Upload CSV, Excel, or Google Sheets files directly
• Built-in Code Interpreter can run Python analysis automatically
• Best for: Complex analysis, creating charts, statistical calculations

Claude

• Upload CSV files or paste data directly
• Excellent at understanding context and explaining findings
• Best for: Detailed explanations, report writing, asking follow-up questions

Google Gemini

• Works well with Google Sheets
• Can analyze data shared via Google Drive
• Best for: Users already in the Google ecosystem

What You'll Learn

By the end of this micro-course, you'll know how to:

1. Upload and describe your data to AI effectively
2. Ask questions that get useful answers
3. Find patterns and insights in your data
4. Create summaries and reports
5. Request basic visualizations
6. Clean up messy data
7. Know when to involve a data professional

Prerequisites

• Access to ChatGPT Plus/Team or Claude Pro (for file uploads)
• A spreadsheet or CSV file you want to analyze
• No coding knowledge required

Let's get started by learning how to upload and describe your data effectively.