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Skills and competencies

Analytical skills: the ability to make sense of data.

Abigail Lewis

2 Aug 2023, 08:27

Graduates who demonstrate their analytical thinking during a job interview or assessment centre will stand out from other candidates.

What are analytical skills?

Here’s a simple definition for analytical skills: they are the ability to work with data – that is, to see patterns, trends and things of note and to draw meaningful conclusions from them. (Note: contrary to popular opinion, data includes information and facts of all types, not just statistics.) This analysis is then used to solve problems, to make business decisions or to provide recommendations to colleagues, clients and bosses.

The competency is essential to business success. It’s not surprising, then, that ‘strong analytical skills’ is frequently listed as an essential requirement on graduate job descriptions, person specifications and job adverts. The good news is that if you have completed a degree you will have honed your analytical skills. All degrees are designed to develop critical thinking, which is, for all intents and purposes, analytical skills by another name.

Short on time? Watch our quick guide to analytical skills

Spend a minute with our targetjobs expert to discover:

• what it really means to have analytical skills
• how your analytical abilities might be assessed throughout the recruitment process (applications, interviews and assessment centres)
• how you may have already developed your analytical skills.

Are you analytical in the right way for the job?

Different degree subjects give experience of different types of information. English literature students, for example, read texts critically to form a qualitative argument or analyse the reliability of sources, while engineering students often use the quantitative results from models to further their experiments or research projects.

Different sectors and professions, too, will use information differently. A candidate well versed in qualitative research may be short on examples that will convince recruiters that they are sufficiently numerate to work confidently with lots of quantitative data. However, many of the analytical skills tests interviewers use aren’t based on your previous experiences but on how you perform then and there, and there are ways to develop your analytical skills further (see below).

How are your analytical skills likely to be tested in your graduate job application?

Online aptitude tests , often the second stage of the application process, assess your ability to analyse a situation and make a judgement. Situational judgement tests (SJTs), numerical tests and inductive reasoning tests are the most likely to focus on your analytical skills. Our commercial partner AssessmentDay has a number of free and paid-for practice tests available for graduates.

What interview questions will you be asked about analytical skills?

It’s possible that you may be asked directly about your analytical skills at interview, such as:

• Give an example of a time when you used analytical skills
• What experience do you have analysing data?
• When have you made a decision based on data?

However, for graduate and entry-level jobs, it is much more likely that your analytical skills will be assessed via an assessment centre exercise or a job-related task (see below) rather than via an interview question. This is because it is easier for a recruiter to assess your analytical skills when you are actually demonstrating them, instead of just talking about them.

Having said that, your analytical skills may be being partially assessed if you are asked a competency-based interview question about solving a problem. For example:

• Give me an example of your lateral thinking.
• Give me an example of a time when you ran into an unexpected obstacle on a project. What did you do?
• Give me an example of a difficult problem you had to solve outside of your course. How did you approach it?
• Tell me about a time you worked through a problem as a team.

To demonstrate your analytical skills when answering these sorts of questions, you will need to explain how you completed a realistic assessment of the situation, and explored and evaluated options.

You might also be asked commercial awareness or hypothetical interview questions that call on your analytical skills. These will vary according to the job, but could include:

• What do you think is the biggest challenge facing us in the next 12 months? (You will need to have analysed the company’s performance and business plans, have an idea of its competitors and have a sense of how the economy and wider political events could affect the business.)
• What would you do if there was conflict between team members you were managing? (This is most likely to be asked in interviews for trainee management jobs. You will need to show that you can analyse the motivations and behaviour of the people involved in conflict.)
• How do our products compare to those of our competitors? (This is most likely to be asked in interviews for consumer goods and retail jobs; you need to have analysed the market to answer this well.)
• If you had £100m, where would you invest it? (This is most likely to be asked in interviews for finance and investment jobs. You will need to show that you have analysed the current financial situation and the behaviour of the markets.)

To answer these questions well, you will need to undertake an analysis of the scenario in question.

What analytical skill examples can I give at interviews?

As mentioned above, it is much more likely that you will be asked a question that uses your analytical skills rather than be asked to cite an example of it. In these situations, the best way to demonstrate your analytical skills is to explain your thought processes as you answer the question: show off your logical approach and critical thinking abilities.

Yet, there may be times when you are asked about them directly. Or perhaps you want to support your answer to interview questions such as ‘Why would you be successful in this job?’ , ‘What are your strengths?’ and ‘Tell us about yourself’ by providing examples of your analytical skills. In these cases, here are just a few examples of when you could have developed analytical abilities:

• Completing degree modules requiring statistical analysis or quantitative/qualitative research (eg running surveys)
• Completing degree modules requiring close analysis of source material
• Undertaking an online course on data analysis, business awareness or a similar topic
• Running a social media account (working out which posts received the highest level of engagement and adjusting your content plan accordingly is a great example of putting analytical skills into practice)
• Planning a gap year or travel itinerary (where you might have had to analyse different travel options to find the best one for you)
• Weighing up between two or more options (eg deciding on your university course)
• Undertaking competitor analysis tasks as part of work experience or an internship (eg if asked to evaluate the company's products or services against those of their key competitors).

What exercises could be used to assess analytical skills at an assessment centre or job interview?

At an assessment centre, analytical skills are most likely to be tested via a case study exercise, either in a group or individually. It’s likely that you will be given a dossier of information and you will need to assess the contents and use it to make recommendations to a client.

Your analytical thinking will also be on show if you are asked to give a presentation : the assessors will be interested in what information you choose to include and how you structure it.

Other analytical skills tests will vary according to the role and the employer. For example, it is common for aspiring solicitors to be given what’s known as an ‘article interview’. Candidates are supplied with some written information, such as a newspaper article, and are then asked questions on it in their interview. The analytical skills of would-be engineers, meanwhile, are usually tested by being given a technical problem (such as, in civil engineering, being asked to design an element). A candidate for a software engineer or programmer job might be asked to find errors in a piece of code or to write a product specification for a hypothetical client. An aspiring data analyst, meanwhile, might be asked to evaluate different software tools in advance and be asked to present their findings in an interview.

How is data analysis used in different jobs?

The way in which graduates use their analytical skills – and the types of decisions that they will make or contribute to – will vary considerably according to their profession. For example:

• Solicitors use analytical skills throughout their career, whether to work out how legislation and case law affects a client’s transaction, to judge if something is a relevant piece of evidence, to explain situations to clients, to assess whether contractual obligations have been reneged upon or to research the background of a case.
• Marketing executives most often use analytical skills to assess customer research and the performance of marketing campaigns – that is, to discern what is popular and to forecast future trends, using a range of metrics (such as social media interactions) and data tools (such as Google Analytics).
• Data analysts can find work in a range of sectors, including consulting, retail and marketing, but the role is often technology-focused and requires a computer science or statistics-based degree. As well as analysing and interpreting data, much of the role involves presenting it in an understandable format for non-technical colleagues or clients.
• Insurance underwriters take into account demographic data and financial models to decide whether to accept an application for insurance cover.

Analytical skills versus problem-solving skills: is there a difference?

Analytical skills are closely aligned with problem-solving skills and the two are often conflated in person specifications, but in fact they are separate and distinct sets of competencies. Sound analysis of a situation is an essential stage of problem solving, but you can use analytical thinking for purposes other than solving a problem: for example, by forecasting the likelihood of future events.

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This describes editorially independent and impartial content, which has been written and edited by the targetjobs content team. Any external contributors featuring in the article are in line with our non-advertorial policy, by which we mean that we do not promote one organisation over another.

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• How Do You Describe...

How Do You Describe Analytical Skills on a Resume?

11 min read · Updated on December 11, 2023

Analytical skills are in high demand and can help you stand it out from the competition. But how do you communicate them in the right way on your resume? This blog will walk you through each step.

Challenges inevitably arise at work. Employers cherish employees with unique abilities to face problems and find solutions.

Analytical skills allow you to assess data and processes to find solutions that can boost productivity and address a company's challenges. Many job descriptions even include some form of analytical skills as a requirement.

It's one thing to possess problem-solving skills – being able to describe them clearly on your resume is another.  Anyone can say they are a “critical thinker” or that they “think outside the box,” but those cliched phrases are easily dismissed, especially if there are no accomplishments on your resume to support the claim.

How do you describe your analytical skills in ways specific enough to attract a reader's attention? How do you demonstrate that they have brought tangible value?

In this blog, we'll cover:

What are analytical skills?

Why do they belong on a resume?

Where to place your analytical skills on your resume

The skills that enable you to investigate a problem and find the ideal solution in a timely, efficient manner are known as analytical skills.

Analytical skills are used when detecting patterns, brainstorming, interpreting data, integrating information, and making decisions based on multiple factors. They can encompass both quantitative and methodical skills or more creative and innovative abilities. 

If you're unsure which analytical skills you possess, if any, take a detailed look at your accomplishments and your methods for getting the best results. You might have more than you think.

Here are a few analytical skills to get you started:

A creative eye can spot trends in data that others may not see. Creativity is also useful for problem-solving when the obvious solution is not always the best solution. Creative thinkers often find effective solutions to big problems.

Creative skills include: brainstorming, collaboration, optimization, predictive modeling, restructuring, strategic planning, and integration.

Critical thinking 

Thinking critically means being able to avoid the obvious. It refers to evaluating information and then making a decision based on your findings, often exploring even impossible angles to find a solution. Critical thinking is what helps an employee make decisions that help solve problems for a company. 

Critical thinking skills include: process management, auditing, benchmarking, big data analytics, case analysis, causal relationships, comparative analysis, correlation, deductive reasoning, inductive reasoning, diagnostics, dissecting, evaluating, data interpretation, and troubleshooting.

Communication

Once you have a solution, you have to communicate it to your colleagues so that it can be shared and implemented. Effective communicators know how to discuss patterns, conclusions, and recommendations. They know how to draw attention and inspire colleagues. If the goal is to find a solution as a group, good communicators also know how to lead teams in effective collaboration.

Analytical communication skills include: problem sensitivity, active listening, reporting, surveying, teamwork, oral communication, written communication, and conducting presentations.

Data analysis

Data analysis is the ability to systematize information in order to uncover patterns and dependencies. No matter what the career field might be, data analysis involves being able to examine a large volume of data and identify trends in that data. It goes beyond simply reading and comprehending the information to clarifying larger concepts and presenting conclusions for top decision-makers. It can also involve the ability to see past the data and find the “spaces in between”. Sometimes the data you need isn't obvious. You need not only to see what is in front of you, but what is missing. 

Data analysis skills include: observation, business analysis, SWOT analysis (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats), cost analysis, credit analysis, financial analysis, industry research, policy analysis, predictive analytics, process analysis, qualitative analysis, and ROI analysis.

Why are analytical skills important on your resume?

Facing and overcoming challenges is critical to a company's survival. An employee with analytical skills can find new solutions to problems that arise and can lead teams down new paths to bolster efficiency, productivity, and profitability. Decisions and actions are based on those skills. This is why the most sought-after employees and executives have a proven record of verifiable analytical skills. 

The ability to see trends, draw conclusions, and communicate options is a must in finances, data science, medicine, marketing, law, and many more industries.

That's why it's crucial to highlight what analytical skills you have for a potential hiring manager. But, simply saying you have “analytical” or “critical thinking” skills in a cover letter means next to nothing. Use your resume to demonstrate your skills in action.

How to demonstrate analytical skills on your resume

The keyword here is “demonstrate”, as in demonstrate the skill or skills in use. Countless resumes will use phrases like “critical thinker”, “communicator” or “solution-oriented”, but can you show how you've utilized a skill in a way that has brought value to an employer? 

Give examples of situations in your job where those skills lead to a solution

Describe a specific process you utilized

List major achievements enable by your analytical skills

Include specific training courses related to analytical skills

Use synonyms to avoid repeating “analyzed,” “analysis,” and “analytical skills.”

Where do I list analytical skills on the resume?

The summary.

The summary is a good place to introduce a skill that has served you repeatedly throughout your career. If you've assisted clients in analyzing their workflow, have often been called upon to find unique solutions, or are a manager known for leading teams through difficult situations, this is the place to introduce that.

Here's an example: Solutions-driven market analyst with 6+ years of experience consulting businesses on trends and products. Lead partner for Consulting Company X. Extensive experience with digital transformation. Revolutionized a client's reach by 20% by taking them online.

Work history

The work history is the ideal place to list analytical skills that lead to demonstrable successes. Here, you have the opportunity to use stats, percentages, and dollar amounts to show how your ability to assess and solve problems increased revenue, advanced markets, or led teams.

In the work history section, you're less likely to use the terms that define analytical skills and more likely to describe them indirectly by showing the success they've brought. 

Make use of the STAR (Situation–Task–Action–Result) model when selecting accomplishments to list in your work history. 

Situation: The employer wanted to achieve a target. 

Task: You were tasked with devising solutions to meet this target.

Action: What steps you took to perform the task. (also, what analytical skills you used)

Result: What was the result of your actions?

When phrasing the accomplishment in your work history, follow the ATM model: Action verb // Task // Metric . Here's an example:

Analyzed $80k/month marketing spend // to optimize reach ; // increased conversion by 15% MoM and d ecreased cost per acquisition by 20%

Take a look at the following example. This resume shows how this person's strong data analysis and market research skills helped advance his company into a new market; how their process analysis skills helped optimize their inventory system; and how their communication skills helped them train and manage staff. The words “invented” and “generated” also elicit creativity.

WORK HISTORY

Project Manager

Artus Springs - Phoenix, AZ

01/2017 - 02/2020

Developed a market entry strategy for the Northwest market, leading to $1.3 million in new market revenue in the first 2 years of operations

Increased stock turnover by 30% and KPIs by 15% by overhauling the inventory management process

Successfully managed a 5-member leadership team

Organized and led events with 40 suppliers

Recruited and trained  a diverse team composed of 100+ brand ambassadors

Invented cross-category marketing solutions, bringing +12% market advertising penetration

The skills section

Because analytical skills are often listed in job descriptions, hiring managers will look for them in the skills section. ATS systems will also scan the skills section to filter for resumes with relevant skills. So, if the job listing to which you are applying clearly lists specific analytical skills that you have, be sure they are listed in your skills section as well. 

Beyond that, it's important to list your analytical skills here in any case. But beware – less is more. Don't list every analytical skill in existence. The key is to list skills that specifically relate to the job or have a strong focus on the industry. Remember, it's crucial to tailor each resume to a specific job offer. That includes the skills section. For example, if the job posting doesn't explicitly list desired skills, look for keywords in the job description that might allude to helpful analytical skills. Is it a management position? Communication skills are a must. Is it a sales position that expresses a hope to expand markets? Market analysis and projection modeling are key.

Also, whichever skill you list in the skills section, be ready to be asked about it in an interview. Before you add a skill to your list, consider whether you can back it up with an anecdote, evidence, or achievement.

The next key is to strive for word choices that are as specific as possible. If the job description calls for “communication”, of course, list that. But is there a specific area of communication in which you excel? Do you have experience with “team management,” “surveying,” or “giving presentations”?

Remember there are both soft skills and hard skills that qualify as analytical skills. “Data analysis” can be trained, but “market prediction” is a skill developed with experience. When considering which analytical skills you possess, look to both categories.

See this example for a research assistant resume:

SPECIAL SKILLS

analytical skills

deductive reasoning

problem-solving

communication

qualitative analysis

quantitative analysis

strategic thinking

data management systems

A special achievements section

An achievements section doesn't occur on every resume, but there are a couple of reasons to include one. For example, an accomplishments section can be helpful if you have impressive achievements outside of the workplace, such as community organizing, volunteering, or hobbies with impressive, relatable skills. 

If you're in a senior executive position in your career, it can be helpful to add a Career Highlights section at the top of your resume, showcasing the many accomplishments you've achieved throughout your career.

On the opposite end, if you're just beginning your career journey, but have significant achievements in school or your community, an accomplishments section is a great place to list them.

If you're looking to use this section to highlight your analytical skills, make sure to focus on accomplishments with demonstrable results.

See the examples below.

Example #1: outside the workplace

ACCOMPLISHMENTS AND ACHIEVEMENTS

Raised $10,000 for lymphoma research through community fundraisers

Created annual “Feed the Homeless” events within my community, raising $1,500 avg.

Led Girl Scout Troops on hikes of the full length of the Appalachian Trail in 2018-2022

Example #2: career highlights

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS

Led a team of 15 employees in a local call center location for more than 5 years

Created and implemented a new training program which resulted in a 25% increase in customer satisfaction

Managed an international customer service team of 25+ employees

Implemented Lean Management directives at company X, which cut overall operating cost by 35%

Example #3: recent graduate

EXTRACURRICULARS

Tutored SAT and ACT improving their test scores by 40% for the average student.

Tutored 4 students in linear algebra, helping them improve by two grades on average.

Organized debate club travel logistics for away meets.

Analytical skills in your education section

If you have a degree, advanced training, or other qualification that could help demonstrate analytical skills, make sure you list it in your education section. Majors in computer science, engineering, mathematics, or statistics demonstrate analytical skills. If you're a recent graduate, include relevant minors. If the job is specifically looking for particular skills and you've taken seminars or have received certifications for new skills, be sure to highlight them under education.

Davis University, Bachelor of Science

Major in Computer Science

Minor in Statistics

Teaching assistant Sept 2019 - May 2020

Analytical skills are in high demand. Understanding how to communicate yours effectively on your resume will help you stand it out from the competition. Be specific and authentic. 

Analytical skills are those skills that allow you to discover patterns, think critically and find unique solutions for success. Consider not only your greatest achievements but also your day-to-day successes when looking for your analytical skills. 

TopResume understands that talking about skills and achievements can be a difficult challenge. Reach out to our expert team of resume writers to help build your resume that successfully highlights your skills. 

Recommended reading:

What's an ATS-Friendly Resume? And How to Write One | TopResume  

How to Write a Chronological Resume (Tips + Examples) | TopResume  

Resume Objective Examples That Get You Hired | TopResume

Related Articles:

Do Hiring Managers Actually Read Cover Letters?

How to Create a Resume With No Education

Why You Lose When You Lie on Your Resume: Learning From Mina Chang

See how your resume stacks up.

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What are analytical skills? Examples and how to level up

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What are analytical skills?

Why are analytical skills important, 9 analytical skills examples, how to improve analytical skills, how to show analytical skills in a job application, the benefits of an analytical mind.

With market forecasts, performance metrics, and KPIs, work throws a lot of information at you. 

If you want to stay ahead of the curve, not only do you have to make sense of the data that comes your way — you need to put it to good use. And that requires analytical skills.

You likely use analytical thinking skills every day without realizing it, like when you solve complex problems or prioritize tasks . But understanding the meaning of analysis skills in a job description, why you should include them in your professional development plan, and what makes them vital to every position can help advance your career.

Analytical skills, or analysis skills, are the ones you use to research and interpret information. Although you might associate them with data analysis, they help you think critically about an issue, make decisions , and solve problems in any context. That means anytime you’re brainstorming for a solution or reviewing a project that didn’t go smoothly, you’re analyzing information to find a conclusion. With so many applications, they’re relevant for nearly every job, making them a must-have on your resume.

Analytical skills help you think objectively about information and come to informed conclusions. Positions that consider these skills the most essential qualification grew by 92% between 1980 and 2018 , which shows just how in-demand they are. And according to Statista, global data creation will grow to more than 180 zettabytes by 2025 — a number with 21 zeros. That data informs every industry, from tech to marketing.

Even if you don’t interact with statistics and data on the job, you still need analytical skills to be successful. They’re incredibly valuable because:

• They’re transferable: You can use analysis skills in a variety of professional contexts and in different areas of your life, like making major decisions as a family or setting better long-term personal goals.
• They build agility: Whether you’re starting a new position or experiencing a workplace shift, analysis helps you understand and adapt quickly to changing conditions. 
• They foster innovation: Analytical skills can help you troubleshoot processes or operational improvements that increase productivity and profitability.
• They make you an attractive candidate: Companies are always looking for future leaders who can build company value. Developing a strong analytical skill set shows potential employers that you’re an intelligent, growth-oriented candidate.

If the thought of evaluating data feels unintuitive, or if math and statistics aren’t your strong suits, don’t stress. Many examples of analytical thinking skills don’t involve numbers. You can build your logic and analysis abilities through a variety of capacities, such as:

1. Brainstorming

Using the information in front of you to generate new ideas is a valuable transferable skill that helps you innovate at work . Developing your brainstorming techniques leads to better collaboration and organizational growth, whether you’re thinking of team bonding activities or troubleshooting a project roadblock. Related skills include benchmarking, diagnosis, and judgment to adequately assess situations and find solutions.

2. Communication

Becoming proficient at analysis is one thing, but you should also know how to communicate your findings to your audience — especially if they don’t have the same context or experience as you. Strong communication skills like public speaking , active listening , and storytelling can help you strategize the best ways to get the message out and collaborate with your team . And thinking critically about how to approach difficult conversations or persuade someone to see your point relies on these skills. 

3. Creativity

You might not associate analysis with your creativity skills, but if you want to find an innovative approach to an age-old problem, you’ll need to combine data with creative thinking . This can help you establish effective metrics, spot trends others miss, and see why the most obvious answer to a problem isn’t always the best. Skills that can help you to think outside the box include strategic planning, collaboration, and integration.

4. Critical thinking

Processing information and determining what’s valuable requires critical thinking skills . They help you avoid the cognitive biases that prevent innovation and growth, allowing you to see things as they really are and understand their relevance. Essential skills to turn yourself into a critical thinker are comparative analysis, business intelligence, and inference.

5. Data analytics

When it comes to large volumes of information, a skilled analytical thinker can sort the beneficial from the irrelevant. Data skills give you the tools to identify trends and patterns and visualize outcomes before they impact an organization or project’s performance. Some of the most common skills you can develop are prescriptive analysis and return on investment (ROI) analysis.

6. Forecasting

Predicting future business, market, and cultural trends better positions your organization to take advantage of new opportunities or prepare for downturns. Business forecasting requires a mix of research skills and predictive abilities, like statistical analysis and data visualization, and the ability to present your findings clearly.

7. Logical reasoning

Becoming a logical thinker means learning to observe and analyze situations to draw rational and objective conclusions. With logic, you can evaluate available facts, identify patterns or correlations, and use them to improve decision-making outcomes. If you’re looking to improve in this area, consider developing inductive and deductive reasoning skills.

8. Problem-solving

Problem-solving appears in all facets of your life — not just work. Effectively finding solutions to any issue takes analysis and logic, and you also need to take initiative with clear action plans . To improve your problem-solving skills , invest in developing visualization , collaboration, and goal-setting skills.

9. Research

Knowing how to locate information is just as valuable as understanding what to do with it. With research skills, you’ll recognize and collect data relevant to the problem you’re trying to solve or the initiative you’re trying to start. You can improve these skills by learning about data collection techniques, accuracy evaluation, and metrics.

You don’t need to earn a degree in data science to develop these skills. All it takes is time, practice, and commitment. Everything from work experience to hobbies can help you learn new things and make progress. Try a few of these ideas and stick with the ones you enjoy:

1. Document your skill set

The next time you encounter a problem and need to find solutions, take time to assess your process. Ask yourself:

• What facts are you considering?
• Do you ask for help or research on your own? What are your sources of advice?
• What does your brainstorming process look like?
• How do you make and execute a final decision?
• Do you reflect on the outcomes of your choices to identify lessons and opportunities for improvement?
• Are there any mistakes you find yourself making repeatedly?
• What problems do you constantly solve easily? 

These questions can give insight into your analytical strengths and weaknesses and point you toward opportunities for growth.

2. Take courses

Many online and in-person courses can expand your logical thinking and analysis skills. They don’t necessarily have to involve information sciences. Just choose something that trains your brain and fills in your skills gaps . 

Consider studying philosophy to learn how to develop your arguments or public speaking to better communicate the results of your research. You could also work on your hard skills with tools like Microsoft Excel and learn how to crunch numbers effectively. Whatever you choose, you can explore different online courses or certification programs to upskill. 

3. Analyze everything

Spend time consciously and critically evaluating everything — your surroundings, work processes, and even the way you interact with others. Integrating analysis into your day-to-day helps you practice. The analytical part of your brain is like a muscle, and the more you use it, the stronger it’ll become. 

After reading a book, listening to a podcast, or watching a movie, take some time to analyze what you watched. What were the messages? What did you learn? How was it delivered? Taking this approach to media will help you apply it to other scenarios in your life. 

If you’re giving a presentation at work or helping your team upskill , use the opportunity to flex the analytical side of your brain. For effective teaching, you’ll need to process and analyze the topic thoroughly, which requires skills like logic and communication. You also have to analyze others’ learning styles and adjust your teachings to match them. 

5. Play games

Spend your commute or weekends working on your skills in a way you enjoy. Try doing logic games like Sudoku and crossword puzzles during work breaks to foster critical thinking. And you can also integrate analytical skills into your existing hobbies. According to researcher Rakesh Ghildiyal, even team sports like soccer or hockey will stretch your capacity for analysis and strategic thinking . 

6. Ask questions

According to a study in Tr ends in Cognitive Sciences, being curious improves cognitive function , helping you develop problem-solving skills, retention, and memory. Start speaking up in meetings and questioning the why and how of different decisions around you. You’ll think more critically and even help your team find breakthrough solutions they otherwise wouldn’t.

7.Seek advice

If you’re unsure what analytical skills you need to develop, try asking your manager or colleagues for feedback . Their outside perspective offers insight you might not find within, like patterns in. And if you’re looking for more consistent guidance, talking to a coach can help you spot weaknesses and set goals for the long term.

8. Pursue opportunities

Speak to your manager about participating in special projects that could help you develop and flex your skills. If you’d like to learn about SEO or market research, ask to shadow someone in the ecommerce or marketing departments. If you’re interested in business forecasting, talk to the data analysis team. Taking initiative demonstrates a desire to learn and shows leadership that you’re eager to grow. 

Shining a spotlight on your analytical skills can help you at any stage of your job search. But since they take many forms, it’s best to be specific and show potential employers exactly why and how they make you a better candidate. Here are a few ways you can showcase them to the fullest:

1. In your cover letter

Your cover letter crafts a narrative around your skills and work experience. Use it to tell a story about how you put your analytical skills to use to solve a problem or improve workflow. Make sure to include concrete details to explain your thought process and solution — just keep it concise. Relate it back to the job description to show the hiring manager or recruiter you have the qualifications necessary to succeed.

2. On your resume

Depending on the type of resume you’re writing, there are many opportunities to convey your analytical skills to a potential employer. You could include them in sections like: 

• Professional summary: If you decide to include a summary, describe yourself as an analytical person or a problem-solver, whichever relates best to the job posting. 
• Work experience: Describe all the ways your skill for analysis has helped you perform or go above and beyond your responsibilities. Be sure to include specific details about challenges and outcomes related to the role you’re applying for to show how you use those skills. 
• Skills section: If your resume has a skill-specific section, itemize the analytical abilities you’ve developed over your career. These can include hard analytical skills like predictive modeling as well as interpersonal skills like communication.

3. During a job interview

As part of your interview preparation , list your professional accomplishments and the skills that helped along the way, such as problem-solving, data literacy, or strategic thinking. Then, pull them together into confident answers to common interview questions using the STAR method to give the interviewer a holistic picture of your skill set.

Developing analytical skills isn’t only helpful in the workplace. It’s essential to life. You’ll use them daily whenever you read the news, make a major purchase, or interact with others. Learning to critically evaluate information can benefit your relationships and help you feel more confident in your decisions, whether you’re weighing your personal budget or making a big career change .

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Analytical Thinking, Critical Analysis, and Problem Solving Guide

• Post author: Samir Saif
• Post published: September 5, 2023
• Post category: marketing skills
• Post comments: 4 Comments
• Post last modified: November 10, 2023
• Reading time: 9 mins read

Analytical thinking; is a mental process that entails dissecting an issue or situation into its constituent parts, investigating their relationships, and reaching conclusions based on facts and logic.

It is not about trusting instincts or making assumptions; rather, it is about studying details, recognizing patterns, and developing a full understanding. Whether you’re a seasoned professional, an aspiring entrepreneur, or a curious mind, improving analytical thinking can help you solve problems more effectively.

Table of Contents

Analytical Thinking’s Importance in Problem Solving

Certainly! Analytical thinking entails the capacity to gather pertinent information, critically assess evidence, and reach logical conclusions. It enables you to:

• Identify Root Causes: Analytical thinking allows you to delve deeper into a problem to find the underlying causes rather than just addressing surface-level symptoms.
• Reduce Risks: Analytical thinking can help discover potential risks and obstacles connected with various solutions. This kind of thinking encourages constant progress and the generation of new ideas.
• Improve Communication: Analytical thinking enables you to deliver clear and well-structured explanations while giving answers to others.
• Adaptability : Analytical thinking gives you a flexible attitude.
• Learning and Development: Analytical thinking improves your cognitive skills, allowing you to learn from prior experiences and apply those lessons to new situations.
• Problem Prevention: By examining previous difficulties, you can find trends and patterns.
• Analytical thinking is, in essence, the foundation of effective problem-solving. It enables you to approach problems methodically, make well-informed judgments, and eventually get better results.

Key Components of Analytical Thinking

Analytical thinking is a multifaceted process including a beautifully woven tapestry of observation, inquiry, and logic. Engage your curiosity as you approach a complex task and see patterns emerge, similar to stars in the night sky.

These patterns direct your thinking toward greater comprehension. Your understanding grows as you progress, and your analytical thinking becomes a light of clarity, guiding people through the fog of complexity.

Your tapestry is complete as you approach the shores of conclusion, a tribute to the power of analytical thinking. Embrace your curiosity, navigate the waters of observation, and let the stars of logic guide you. Remember that the art of analytical thinking is a magnificent journey that leads to enlightenment.

Using analytical reasoning in real-life situations

Absolutely! Let’s get started with analytical thinking! Consider yourself in a busy city, attempting to discover the shortest route to your goal. Instead than taking the first option that comes to mind, you take a moment to think about your possibilities.

This is the initial stage in analytical thinking: evaluating the situation. As you contemplate, you balance the advantages and disadvantages of each route, taking into account issues such as traffic, distance, and potential bypasses. This information gathering approach assists you in making an informed decision.

Breaking down the problem

Then you go to the second phase, which entails breaking the problem down into smaller portions. You break down the difficult job of navigating the city into manageable components, much like a puzzle.

This technique allows you to identify future difficulties and devise creative solutions. For example, you may observe a construction zone on one route but recall a shortcut that may save you time.

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Analyzing the information

You employ critical thinking to assess the material you’ve received as you go. As you consider the significance of each component—time, distance, and traffic—patterns and connections emerge.

You begin to make connections and discover that, while a faster route may appear enticing, heavy traffic at certain times of day might make it a frustrating experience.

Make a decision

Making a decision in the last step necessitates a complete comprehension of the circumstance as well as critical analysis. Analytical thinking entails investigating alternatives, comprehending nuances, and making informed decisions.

This approach can lead to optimal, well-thought-out, and adaptable solutions, whether navigating a city, tackling a complex project, or making life decisions. Analytic thinking allows one to make informed judgments that benefit both the situation and the individual.

Strategies to Enhance Analytical Thinking Skills

Developing strong analytical thinking abilities is a journey that opens up new possibilities for comprehension and issue solving.

Consider yourself on an exciting mental journey where every challenge is an opportunity for improvement. Here’s a step-by-step guide to cultivating and improving your analytical thinking talents.

Accept curiosity

Begin by embracing your curiosity. Allow your thoughts to roam, pondering about the hows and whys of the world around you.

Allow yourself to immerse yourself completely in the complexities of a complex topic, such as climate change. “What are the underlying causes of this phenomenon?” Two decent places to start are “How do different variables interact to shape its outcomes?”.

Improve your observing abilities

Then, put your observation abilities to the test. Pay close attention to details that would otherwise go undetected. Instead of just gazing at the colors and shapes, try to figure out the brushstrokes, the play of light and shadow, and the feelings they create, as if you were studying a painting.

When analyzing data, look underneath the surface figures for trends, anomalies, and patterns that can reveal hidden insights.

Accept critical thinking

Learn to think critically as you progress. Examine your assumptions and look for alternative points of view. Assume you’re looking into a business problem, such as declining sales.

Instead than jumping to conclusions, investigate the matter from all angles. Consider changes in the sector, client preferences, and even internal corporate processes. This broader viewpoint can lead to creative solutions.

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Experiment with logical reasoning

Also, practice logical reasoning. Improve your ability to connect the dots and build logical chains of reasoning. As if you were assembling a jigsaw puzzle, each piece must fit snugly into the whole.

Consider how numerous variables such as population growth, infrastructure, and transportation systems logically interconnect when dealing with a complex issue such as urban congestion.

Improve your problem-solving skills

Develop your problem-solving abilities as well. For example, if you’re struggling with a personal issue, such as time management, break it down into smaller components. Analyze your daily routine to discover bottlenecks and develop a strategy to overcome them.

Foster continuous learning

Finally, encourage ongoing learning by broadening your knowledge base and investigating new domains. Imagine yourself as a discerning thinker analyzing the world’s intricacies and unraveling secrets.

Remember that progress, not perfection, is the goal. Every task, question, and conundrum you solve puts you one step closer to being an analytical juggernaut. Continue to explore and study to see your critical thinking skills soar to new heights.

Applying analytical reasoning to work

Assume you are a business owner who wants to boost client happiness. An analytical thinker would collect and analyze client input to uncover frequent pain issues.

You can adopt targeted adjustments that address the fundamental causes of unhappiness by detecting patterns in feedback data.

How can you demonstrate analytical skills on a resume?

Analytical skills on your CV can set you apart and leave a lasting impression on potential employers. Make your CV into a canvas, describing specific instances where your analytical skills were put to use.

Share how you methodically dissected a challenging topic or situation, revealing insights that aided your decision-making.

If you were tasked with optimizing a company’s supply chain, for example, dig further into data on inventory levels, production rates, and distribution deadlines.

Explain how your study found a bottleneck in the distribution network, leading to a realignment suggestion that saved the organization time and money.

Storytelling is key. Create a fascinating story about how your analytical abilities helped solve a tough problem, demonstrating your abilities and attracting the reader.

Your CV should read like a motivational trip through your analytical abilities, inspiring companies with your future contributions to their organization.

What is a case study of analytical thinking?

Absolutely! Let me give you an excellent example of analytical thinking that perfectly expresses its essence. Maya, a young scientist in this example, is dedicated to discovering a long-term solution for safe drinking water in rural areas.

She performs extensive research on water supplies, toxins, and local circumstances, looking for patterns and anomalies. She develops the concept that heavy rains increase runoff, resulting in higher levels of water contamination.

Maya designs controlled experiments in a lab setting to test her idea, acquiring quantifiable information through manipulation and observation.

Maya’s investigation continues, and she explores the big picture, imagining a multi-faceted solution that involves rainwater gathering, enhanced filtration systems, and community education.

She anticipates problems and works with engineers, social workers, and community leaders to refine her ideas and ensure their viability.

Her journey exemplifies how analytical thinking can lead to transformational solutions, and it motivates us to tackle complex challenges with curiosity, diligence, and the hope that careful analysis may design a better future.

Final Thoughts

Analytical thinking is more than just a cognitive skill; it’s a mindset that empowers you to unravel complexity, make informed choices, and navigate challenges with confidence.

You will be better able to handle the intricacies of the modern world as your analytical thinking skills increase, whether in business, academics, or daily life. Accept the power of analytical thinking, and your decision-making and problem-solving abilities will soar.

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Analytical Thinking vs Problem Solving: A Comprehensive Comparison

Analytical thinking and problem solving are crucial skills in various aspects of life, including personal and professional situations. While they may seem interchangeable, there are distinct differences between the two. Analytical thinking focuses on breaking down complex information into smaller, manageable components to understand a situation and evaluate alternatives effectively. On the other hand, problem solving involves devising practical solutions to overcome challenges or resolve issues that arise in daily life or the workplace.

Both analytical thinking and problem-solving skills contribute to making well-informed decisions, managing risks, and achieving success in various areas of life. By understanding these skills’ distinctions and applying them effectively, individuals can enhance their performance in the workplace, handle complex situations with ease, and make better choices in their personal lives.

Key Takeaways

Understanding analytical thinking.

Nature of Analytical Thinking

Key components of analytical thinking include reasoning, fact-checking, and questioning assumptions. This skill set allows individuals to approach problems with an open mind, meticulously gather and analyze data, and make well-informed decisions. Ultimately, analytical thinking leads to more informed and strategic decision-making, increasing the likelihood of success in professional and personal endeavors.

How Analytical Thinking Works

The process of analytical thinking unfolds in several stages:

It is important to note that analytical thinking is not solely reserved for mathematicians or scientists but is a valuable skill applicable to a wide range of disciplines and professions. From business analysts, who require analytical thinking and problem-solving skills to identify and implement changes, to daily decision-making in personal lives, analytical reasoning plays a vital role in successfully navigating through various complexities.

Significance of Problem Solving

Features of problem solving.

Problem solving is an essential skill that helps individuals and organizations tackle challenges effectively. Problem-solving skills enable individuals to identify problems or obstacles, analyze the situation, and find appropriate solutions. These skills include critical thinking, analytical reasoning, decision-making, and learning from the process. People with strong problem-solving abilities can better cope with stress, handle risk, and adapt to change in a fast-paced environment.

Process of Problem Solving

Comparing analytical thinking and problem solving, similarities.

Moreover, practicing both analytical thinking and problem-solving techniques can lead to improved decision-making abilities. This development, in turn, translates into greater efficiency and effectiveness in personal and professional contexts.

Differences

In conclusion, analytical thinking and problem-solving, while both essential skills, have distinct applications and methods, and their effective use can be instrumental in achieving success in various aspects of life.

Ways to Improve Both Techniques

Developing analytical thinking.

Another useful approach is to focus on communication and the art of listening. Active listening enables a better understanding of various perspectives and leads to well-informed decisions. Moreover, discussing complex topics can strengthen one’s ability to analyze and evaluate information effectively.

Collaborating with others can also help individuals enhance their analytical thinking skills. By working together, people can build on each other’s strengths and overcome challenges. Additionally, they can exchange ideas and learn from different viewpoints, which may lead to innovative solutions.

Enhancing Problem Solving Skills

Utilizing a methodical approach to problem-solving can also yield positive results. Techniques like breaking down complex issues into manageable steps or generating multiple possible solutions can enable a more comprehensive analysis, increasing the likelihood of success in overcoming challenges.

Importance in Workplace and Career Success

Relevance in the workplace.

Effective communication is an important aspect of analytical thinking and problem solving. In a professional setting, employees must often convey their findings and ideas to stakeholders, ensuring that solutions are implemented appropriately and any concerns are addressed. This communication can lead to improved collaboration, clearer goals, and faster resolution of issues 3 .

Implication for Career Success

In addition to benefitting the workplace as a whole, strong analytical thinking and problem-solving skills are critical for individual career success. These skills can help professionals stand out among their peers and demonstrate their value to their organization. Professionals who can apply analytical thinking and problem-solving techniques are viewed as being able to think critically, make decisions, and take initiative, which are all highly valued by employers 4 .

Role in Decision Making and Risk Management

Influence on decision making.

Analytical thinking plays a crucial role in decision making, as it involves breaking things down into their component parts and using deductive reasoning to draw conclusions from given evidence and assumptions source . This allows individuals and organizations to carefully consider the pros and cons of each option, determine the feasibility of implementing potential solutions, and weigh the costs and benefits associated with each decision.

Contribution to Risk Management

Risk management is a critical aspect of decision-making, as it helps organizations and individuals identify, assess, and mitigate potential risks associated with various decisions. Analytical thinking contributes to risk management by enabling decision-makers to collect and analyze data, evaluate risks and their potential consequences, and make informed decisions based on the results source .

Similarly, problem-solving assists in risk management by addressing potential challenges that may arise during the implementation of solutions, such as examining potential obstacles, resource constraints, and other factors that may impact the success of an initiative source . By combining the strengths of both analytical thinking and problem-solving, decision-makers can enhance their risk management strategies and ensure a higher probability of success in their respective decisions.

Utilization in Business Analysis

Application in business analysis.

When approaching a problem, business analysts consider several key factors, such as people, processes, and technology. They employ systems thinking to understand the enterprise holistically and how all these elements interact. This mindset helps them to not only identify the root cause of a problem, but also to develop solutions that address the underlying issues effectively [2] .

Understanding Financial Data

Real life examples.

Analytical thinking and problem solving are essential skills in both personal and professional life. They allow individuals to tackle complex issues, identify the root causes, and develop effective solutions. Let’s examine some real-life examples that emphasize the differences between these two thought processes.

Another example can be found in the realm of personal finance. Analytical thinking would be employed to evaluate one’s financial situation and understand patterns in spending habits. This analysis could reveal areas where money may be saved or better utilized. For instance, it may uncover excessive spending on dining out or ineffective monthly budgeting practices.

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Consultant- Evaluation of the IRISH Aid Funded Projects

Advertised on behalf of.

Home Based Freetown, SIERRA LEONE

Type of Contract :

Individual Contract

Starting Date :

12-Aug-2024

Application Deadline :

08-Aug-24 (Midnight New York, USA)

Post Level :

International Consultant

Duration of Initial Contract :

Time left :, languages required :.

English  

Expected Duration of Assignment :

UNDP is committed to achieving workforce diversity in terms of gender, nationality and culture. Individuals from minority groups, indigenous groups and persons with disabilities are equally encouraged to apply. All applications will be treated with the strictest confidence. UNDP does not tolerate sexual exploitation and abuse, any kind of harassment, including sexual harassment, and discrimination. All selected candidates will, therefore, undergo rigorous reference and background checks.

UN Women is the United Nations organization dedicated to gender equality and the empowerment of women, grounded in the vision of equality enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations. A global champion for women and girls, UN Women was established to accelerate progress on fulfilling their needs, works for the elimination of discrimination against women and girls; the empowerment of women; and the achievement of equality between women and men as partners and beneficiaries of development, human rights, humanitarian action and peace and security. Placing women's rights at the center of all its efforts, the UN Women leads and coordinates United Nations system efforts to ensure that commitments on gender equality and gender mainstreaming translate into action throughout the world. It provides strong and coherent leadership in support of Member States' priorities and efforts, building effective partnerships with civil society and other relevant actors.

UN Women Sierra Leone is seeking the service of an international consultant to commission the evaluation of the IRISH Aid projects: 1) The Protection and Empowerment of Women for Equality, Resilience and Development (POWERED) from July 2021 – November 2022 and 3) the Promotion of Women Empowerment & Rights in Sierra Leone (POWER SALONE) Project August 2022 – September 2024. The evaluation will follow the OECD/DAC criteria for evaluations namely: relevance, effectiveness, efficiency, impact, and sustainability. The evaluation will further document lesions learnt and best practices for replicability of project’s intervention as well as challenges that arose from project implementation.

Duties and Responsibilities

The international consultant will be reporting to the Head of Office and will be supported by the Programme Specialist (EVAW) for contract management and contract payment. The Monitoring and Evaluation officer as the evaluation manager for this assignment will validate all deliverables

The scope is to conduct evaluation for the IRISH AID funded projects to assess the performance of the projects using OECD/DAC criteria. Below are the specific deliverables:

Task 1: Inception phase: Evaluability assessment, development of survey methodology, tools, sampling plan, workplan, and incorporation of feedback on draft inception report

Task 2: Conduct field data collection including Conduct preliminary desk review of relevant documents and existing data and primary data collection.

Task 3: Data Analysis, synthesis, Interpretation, draft report, and Knowledge transition materials: Focusing on data analysis, synthesizing the data, interpretation of findings and drafting of an evaluation report and knowledge transition materials using a standard template.

Task 4: Final Evaluation Report and knowledge transition materials: A final evaluation report that addressed the comments and feedbacks from evaluation stakeholders (EMG, ERG) and Donor including a concise Executive Summary and knowledge transition materials will be produced and circulated internally including PPT, Executive summary.

Task 5: Submission to UN Women for EMG validation and approval. Consultant will submit the final report for validation by the EMG and further disseminate to stakeholders during a webinar and stakeholder engagement session.

This is a home-based consultancy.

The consultant is required to work 13 full days in UN Women office and 10 days on field work across the 7 operational districts.

Competencies

Core Values: 

• Respect for Diversity 
• Integrity 
• Professionalism 

Core Competencies: 

• Awareness and Sensitivity Regarding Gender Issues 
• Accountability 
• Creative Problem Solving 
• Effective Communication 
• Inclusive Collaboration 
• Stakeholder Engagement 
• Leading by Example 

Please visit this link for more information on UN Women’s Core Values and Competencies:  

https://www.unwomen.org/en/about-us/employment/application-process#_Values  

FUNCTIONAL COMPETENCIES: 

• Strong knowledge of gender equality and women's rights issues, political science, law, and development.
• Demonstrated ability to interact effectively with government representatives of Member States as well as CSO representative.
• Proven networking skills, and ability.
• Strong writing and communication skills.
• Knowledge and understanding of UN system and familiarity with inter-governmental processes.
• Strong IT skills, including databases, extranet and office software packages.
• Strong analytical and interpersonal skills

Required Skills and Experience

Education and Certification:

• Master’s degree in social science, research, gender, international development, or other relevant field; PhD is an advantage.

Experience:

• Minimum 7 years of experience in conducting endline / baseline surveys and evaluation of international development projects.
• Minimum 5 years of work experience evaluating gender and/or VAW and related development projects is a distinct advantage.
• Extensive experience in designing and conducting community surveys, particularly on prevention issues.
• Good knowledge of best practices and indicators to measure positive changes relevant to decreasing VAW, promoting gender equality, and advancing women’s empowerment.
• Good understanding of ethical considerations and safety guidelines in researching VAW and how to adhere to these in practice during the survey design and administration.

Fluency in English is required

• Personal CV or P11 (P11 can be downloaded from: https://www.unwomen.org/sites/default/files/Headquarters/Attachments/Sections/About%20Us/Employment/UN-Women-P11-Personal-History-Form.doc )
• A cover letter (maximum length: 1 page)