Data science from zero (no IT background)

About this track

This is the entry door. It assumes you have never written a line of code and have never studied statistics. You will learn what data science actually is, install Python on your own machine step by step, write your first programs, and read a real data file. Work through the lessons in order — each one builds on the last — then take the exam to earn your certificate.

Every lesson is written and hosted here on Yanjye — you never leave the site. Work through them in order, then sit the exam to earn your certificate.

Create a free account or log in to track your progress and earn the certificate.

Lessons

1. 1
   What data science is, in plain words

   The job, the daily work, and what it is not.

   ~15 min
2. 2
   How data is organised: rows, columns and types

   Tables, records, variables, and the four types of measurement.

   ~20 min
3. 3
   Installing Python, step by step

   Windows, macOS and Linux, with the mistakes that trap beginners.

   ~30 min
4. 4
   Your first program, and how to run it

   print, comments, the terminal, and reading an error message.

   ~20 min account needed
5. 5
   Variables, numbers, text and input

   Storing values, the four basic types, and talking to the user.

   ~25 min account needed
6. 6
   Lists and dictionaries: holding many values

   The two containers that carry every dataset you will meet.

   ~25 min account needed
7. 7
   Conditions and loops: deciding and repeating

   if / elif / else, for, while, and Python indentation.

   ~30 min account needed
8. 8
   Functions: naming a piece of work

   def, arguments, return, and why copy-paste is your enemy.

   ~25 min account needed
9. 9
   Reading a real data file: CSV

   What CSV is, opening files safely, and computing on real rows.

   ~30 min account needed
10. 10
    Describing data: the statistics you actually need

    Mean, median, spread, outliers, and how averages mislead.

    ~30 min account needed
11. 11
    pip and virtual environments

    Installing libraries without breaking your machine.

    ~25 min account needed
12. 12
    Your first chart, and your first project

    matplotlib basics, choosing a chart type, and shipping something.

    ~30 min account needed