Table of contents
1.
Introduction
2.
What is Data Analytics?
2.1.
Key Steps in Data Analytics:
2.2.
Skills Required to Become a Data Analyst
2.3.
Various Careers in Data Analysis
3.
Data Science vs Data Analytics
4.
What is Machine Learning?
4.1.
Types of Machine Learning:
4.2.
Skills Required to Become a Machine Learning Engineer
4.3.
Various Careers in Machine Learning
5.
Data Science vs Machine Learning
6.
Frequently Asked Questions
6.1.
What is the difference between data analytics and data science?
6.2.
Is coding necessary for data analytics and machine learning?
6.3.
Can a beginner learn machine learning without a data science background?
7.
Conclusion
Last Updated: Mar 4, 2025
Medium

Data Analytics vs Machine Learning

Author Rahul Singh
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Introduction

Data Analytics and Machine Learning are two essential fields in the world of data-driven decision-making. While Data Analytics focuses on examining historical data to uncover patterns and trends, Machine Learning enables systems to learn from data and make predictions. Both fields play a crucial role in various industries, from business intelligence to artificial intelligence. 

In this article, you will learn the key differences, applications, and use cases of  Data Analytics and Machine Learning.

What is Data Analytics?

 Data Analytics is the process of analyzing raw data to extract useful insights. It helps businesses make informed decisions based on patterns and trends.

Key Steps in Data Analytics:

  1. Data Collection - Gathering data from various sources.
     
  2. Data Cleaning - Removing inconsistencies and errors from data.
     
  3. Data Processing - Structuring data into a readable format.
     
  4. Data Analysis - Applying statistical and logical techniques to find patterns.
     
  5. Data Visualization - Presenting findings using charts and graphs.

Skills Required to Become a Data Analyst

To become a data analyst, one must have the following skills:

  • Programming: Python, R, SQL for handling data.
     
  • Statistics & Mathematics: Understanding probability and regression analysis.
     
  • Data Visualization: Using tools like Tableau, Power BI, or Matplotlib.
     
  • Excel & SQL: Managing and querying databases.
     
  • Critical Thinking: Identifying patterns and trends in large datasets.
     

Here’s a simple Python example for data analysis using pandas:

import pandas as pd

data = {'Name': ['Alice', 'Bob', 'Charlie'], 'Age': [25, 30, 35], 'Salary': [50000, 60000, 70000]}
df = pd.DataFrame(data)

# Display basic statistics
descriptive_stats = df.describe()
print(descriptive_stats)
You can also try this code with Online Python Compiler
Run Code

 

Output:

      Age    Salary
count   3.0       3.0
mean   30.0   60000.0
std     5.0    10000.0
min    25.0   50000.0
max    35.0   70000.0

Various Careers in Data Analysis

  • Data Analyst - Analyzes company data to improve business performance.
     
  • Business Intelligence Analyst - Works with data visualization tools.
     
  • Data Engineer - Builds data pipelines and manages databases.
     
  • Operations Analyst - Uses data to optimize business operations.

Data Science vs Data Analytics

FeatureData ScienceData Analytics
FocusFuture predictionsHistorical analysis
TechniquesMachine learningStatistical tools
Tools UsedPython, TensorFlowSQL, Excel, Tableau

What is Machine Learning?

Machine Learning (ML) is a branch of AI that enables systems to learn from data without being explicitly programmed. It is used in applications like recommendation systems, fraud detection, and self-driving cars.

Types of Machine Learning:

  1. Supervised Learning - Uses labeled data to make predictions.
     
  2. Unsupervised Learning - Identifies patterns without labeled data.
     
  3. Reinforcement Learning - Trains models through rewards and penalties.
     

Here’s an example of machine learning using Python’s scikit-learn:

from sklearn.linear_model import LinearRegression
import numpy as np

# Sample data
X = np.array([1, 2, 3, 4, 5]).reshape(-1, 1)
y = np.array([2, 4, 6, 8, 10])

# Create and train model
model = LinearRegression()
model.fit(X, y)

# Predict
prediction = model.predict([[6]])
print("Prediction for input 6:", prediction[0])
You can also try this code with Online Python Compiler
Run Code

 

Output:

Prediction for input 6: 12.0

Skills Required to Become a Machine Learning Engineer

  • Programming: Proficiency in Python, R, or Java.
     
  • Mathematics: Knowledge of algebra, calculus, and probability.
     
  • Machine Learning Frameworks: TensorFlow, PyTorch, scikit-learn.
     
  • Data Handling: Ability to preprocess and analyze datasets.
     
  • Model Deployment: Knowledge of cloud platforms like AWS or Google Cloud.

Various Careers in Machine Learning

  • Machine Learning Engineer - Builds and deploys ML models.
     
  • AI Research Scientist - Develops new ML techniques.
     
  • Data Scientist - Uses ML to derive insights from data.
     
  • Deep Learning Engineer - Works with neural networks and deep learning models.

Data Science vs Machine Learning

FeatureData ScienceMachine Learning
FocusAnalyzing dataTraining models
TechniquesData processingAlgorithms like SVM, Neural Networks
Tools UsedSQL, PandasTensorFlow, PyTorch

Choose the Right Program

Choosing between data analytics and machine learning depends on your interest:
 

  • If you like finding patterns in data, go for data analytics.
     
  • If you enjoy coding and automation, pursue machine learning.
     
  • If you want a mix of both, consider a data science career.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between data analytics and data science?

Data analytics focuses on analyzing historical data, while data science includes predictive modeling and machine learning.

Is coding necessary for data analytics and machine learning?

Yes, coding is required for both fields, with Python and SQL being commonly used.

Can a beginner learn machine learning without a data science background?

Yes, beginners can start with fundamental concepts and gradually move to advanced topics.

Conclusion

In this article, we explored the differences between Data Analytics and Machine Learning.  Data Analytics focuses on analyzing past data to identify trends and make data-driven decisions, while Machine Learning uses algorithms to enable systems to learn from data and make predictions. Both fields play a crucial role in modern technology, but they serve different purposes. Understanding these differences helps in selecting the right field based on interests and career goals.

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