Analytical skill
Analytical skill is the ability to deconstruct information into smaller categories in order to draw conclusions.
[1] Analytical skill consists of categories that include logical reasoning, critical thinking, communication, research, data analysis and creativity.
Analytical skill is taught in contemporary education with the intention of fostering the appropriate practices for future professions.
[6][5][7] Logical reasoning is a process consisting of inferences, where premises and hypotheses are formulated to arrive at a probable conclusion.
[10] This scientific method utilises deductions, to test hypotheses and theories, to predict if possible observations were correct.
Therefore, Harold is mortal.’[11] For deductive reasoning to be upheld, the hypothesis must be correct, therefore, reinforcing the notion that the conclusion is logical and true.
[15] Inductive reasoning commences with an assumption based on faithful data, leading to a generalised conclusion.
[15] Inductive reasoning is an analytical skill common in many professions such as the corporate environment, where statistics and data are constantly analysed.
[16] Abductive reasoning commences with layered hypotheses, which may be insufficient with evidence, leading to a conclusion that is most likely explanatory for the problem.
[20] This thinking is achieved by supporting conclusions without biases, having reliable evidence and reasoning, and using appropriate data and information.
[21] Critical thinking is used to solve problems, calculate the likelihood, make decisions, and formulate inferences.
As a critical thinker individuals do not accept assumptions without further questioning the reliability of it with further research and analysing the results found.
[23] It is critical that individuals are able to query authoritative bodies: teachers, specialists, textbooks, books, newspapers, television etc.
It is an effective form of communication as the individuals sending and receiving the information are physically present, allowing immediate responses.
In this form of communication, the sender uses words, spoken or written, to express the message to the individuals receiving the information.
[28] Verbal communication is an essential analytical skill as it allows for the development of positive relationships among individuals.
[29] This positive relationship is attributed to the notion that verbal communication between individuals fosters a depth of understanding, empathy and versatility among them, providing each other with more attention.
[33] Non-verbal communication is a critical analytical skill as it allows individuals to delve deeper into the meaning of messages.
[45] Data analysis includes finding different patterns within the information which allows you to narrow your research and come to a better conclusion.
Data analysis is an analytical skill, commonly adopted in business, as it allows organisations to become more efficient, internally and externally, solve complex problems and innovate.
[48] Statistical analysis involves the collection, analyses and presentation of data to decipher trends and patterns.
[50] Descriptive analysis provides information about a sample set that reflects the population by summarising relevant aspects of the dataset i.e. uncovering patterns.
[52] Inferential analysis analyses a sample from complete data to compare the difference between treatment groups.
[56] Predictive analysis is an advanced form of analytics that forecasts future activity, behaviour, trends and patterns from new and historical data.
The next step would be now analysing the pieces found to be of worth and importance and using those to come to a logical conclusion on how to best solve the problem.
[60] Creativity is an analytical skill as it allows individuals to utilise innovative methods to solve problems.
