The data lifecycle

From raw data to decision

Data literacy is the ability to read, work with and reason about data. Every analysis follows a lifecycle:

1. Collect — gather data from sources.
2. Clean — fix errors, gaps and inconsistencies (usually the biggest step).
3. Analyse — explore, summarise and find patterns.
4. Visualise — turn findings into clear charts.
5. Communicate — tell the story so people can act.

Beginners often rush to charts. Professionals spend most of their time on collect–clean–analyse, because a beautiful chart of bad data still misleads.