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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.

desk-with-different-work-elements-analytical-skills

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.

handing-over-papers-analytical-skills

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. 

group-of-analytic-papers-analytical-skills

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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Elizabeth Perry is a Coach Community Manager at BetterUp. She uses strategic engagement strategies to cultivate a learning community across a global network of Coaches through in-person and virtual experiences, technology-enabled platforms, and strategic coaching industry partnerships. With over 3 years of coaching experience and a certification in transformative leadership and life coaching from Sofia University, Elizabeth leverages transpersonal psychology expertise to help coaches and clients gain awareness of their behavioral and thought patterns, discover their purpose and passions, and elevate their potential. She is a lifelong student of psychology, personal growth, and human potential as well as an ICF-certified ACC transpersonal life and leadership Coach.

20 examples of development opportunities that can level up your career

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Expert Tips for Highlighting Analytical Skills on Your Resume: 2024 Edition

In a data-driven world, your resume needs to keep up. Our 2024, recruiter-approved guide on embedding analytical skills in your resume includes which skills to list, synonyms to use, and 15+ examples.

2 years ago   •   12 min read

Analytical skills are an integral part of any job, be it a data analyst role or a senior management position. But what exactly are employers looking for when they ask to see analytical skills on your resume?

Analytical skills refer to your ability to break down problems and come up with appropriate solutions. These skills are useful in any field, but especially in roles involving science, data, engineering, or other tech-heavy processes. Typically, to show analytical skills, you need to describe a situation or a problem at a previous job, detail how you came up with a solution, and quantify the benefits of your solution. In other words, how did your solution benefit the company or project as a whole?

In this article, we’ll explain what the best analytical skills are to showcase on your resume, how to tailor your skills to each application, how to highlight specific analytical toolsets depending on your industry, and how to show analytical skills in each section of your resume.

Let's start with a quick "how to" before diving into exactly what analytical skills employers are looking for.

A step by step guide to demonstrating analytical skills on your resume

If you're applying for a job that requires strong analytical skills, you should:

  • Think of a time when you had to analyze something and include examples in your work experience accomplishments. Be as specific as possible and include the results of your actions.
  • Include a section for projects and other activities where you’ve used analytical skills.
  • List any relevant degrees or other qualifications in your education section.
  • Mention technical skills related to analysis in your skills section.
  • Highlight analytical skills in your resume summary and cover letter.
  • Use synonyms to avoid repeating “analyzed,” “analysis,” and “analytical skills.”

An infographic showing ways to highlight analytical skills through your bullet points

We'll go into each of those in a little more detail below, but first — what are employers actually looking for when they ask for analytical skills?

Analytical skills to list on your resume

If a job posting mentions analytical skills, that means the company is looking for applicants with abilities in:

  • Problem solving
  • Observation
  • Data analysis
  • Critical thinking
  • Decision making
  • Machine learning
  • AI-driven data interpretation
  • Deductive reasoning
  • Forecasting
  • Brainstorming
  • Troubleshooting
  • Predictive modeling
  • Qualitative and quantitative analysis
  • Organization
  • Communication
  • Feedback and reporting

How analytical skills are changing in 2024

With the rise of Machine Learning (ML) and Artificial intelligence (AI), traditional analytical roles are evolving to include these new and emerging skill sets. As AI and ML reshape conventional analysis methods and data-driven decision-making, modern recruiters expect to see experience with these types of tools for a variety of roles moving forward.

Studying modern AI and ML tools can help you update your resume and remain competitive, especially in technical roles. Consider investing in online learning, qualifications, and certificates to add these skills to your resume, as this will help your resume stand out in 2024, particularly for modern data-driven roles.

Should you still list analytical skills for non-technical roles?

It's important to mention analytical skills on your resume, even when applying for non-technical roles. In today’s diverse job market, roles in areas like marketing, human resources, and administration still benefit significantly from analytical thinking, even if it’s not directly a data-driven role.

Demonstrating your ability to analyze consumer trends, assess employee data, or manage complex scheduling shows versatility and critical thinking, and highlights your capacity to approach problems creatively, all of which are excellent transferable skills to highlight for any industry.

How to show analytical skills on your resume

Now that you understand what employers are looking for, how do you prove that you have what it takes?You can demonstrate analytical skills on your resume by giving examples of where you:

  • Analyzed data to come up with solutions or improve processes
  • Worked with numbers (i.e. show your numerical and quantitative abilities)
  • Managed budgets or involved in organizational planning
  • Designed processes, background research, etc.

In addition to the traditional work settings, it's important to showcase how you've used analytical skills in remote or hybrid work environments, as employers increasingly value candidates who can adapt their problem-solving skills to virtual settings. Highlight examples where you have successfully managed or participated in remote projects, used digital communication tools, or independently solved problems while working remotely.

Synonyms for analytical skills

Where do you begin when demonstrating analytical skills on a resume? With action verbs . These are the heart and soul of your bullet point accomplishments and the clearest way to tell recruiters what you actually did.

Starting with "analyzed" sounds like a no-brainer, and it should definitely be in there once or twice. More than that, however, and it’s likely to make a hiring manager's eyes start to glaze over. Try shaking it up with synonyms like:

  • Interpreted
  • Investigated
  • Extrapolated

Where to put analytical skills on your resume

The best way to demonstrate any kind of soft skill is to scatter it throughout your resume — that way, instead of just saying, "I have great analytical skills" and leaving it at that, you're painting a picture of exactly what you bring to the table.

This means you should include analytical skills in your:

  • Work experience bullet points
  • Projects or additional section
  • Education section
  • Skills section
  • Resume summary
  • Cover letter

Here are some examples of what that should look like.

In your work experience section

The best place to include analytical skills on your resume is in your work experience section . Why? Because a) it’s the part of your resume recruiters pay the most attention to, and b) it shows how you’ve actually used those skills in a professional setting.

Include bullet point examples of times you’ve analyzed data, including what impact your accomplishment had on the company’s bottom line, as shown in the example below.

Include examples of analyzing data in the work experience section of your resume

In a projects or additional section

Your resume doesn’t have to be limited to paid work experience. If you’ve completed significant personal or university projects, activities, competitions, or certifications , feel free to list these in a section titled “Projects,” “Other,” or “Additional Information.”For example:

Use a projects or additional section of your resume for any evidence of analytical skills that doesn’t fit in your work experience section

In your education section

If you have a degree, major, or other qualification that could help demonstrate analytical skills, make sure you list it in your education section . This could include majors in computer science , engineering, mathematics, or statistics.

If you’ve taken courses or projects in AI, machine learning, or advanced data analytics, highlight these to demonstrate your understanding of current industry trends.  If you’re a recent graduate, you could also include minors or relevant coursework .

For example:

Degrees and other qualifications can be used to demonstrate analysis skills

In your skills section

Technical skills like data visualization or engineering software , proficiency with standard techniques, programming languages, and other tools and frameworks can all go in the skills section of your resume, as shown in the example below.

Alongside traditional analysis tools, mention your proficiency with modern AI and machine learning software, visualization tools like TensorFlow or PyTorch, and any other modern data analysis frameworks you're familiar with to show that you’re up-to-date with current and emerging tools.

List technical skills in a separate skills section at the bottom of your resume

If you’re not sure of which technical skills to include on your resume, use the tool below to search for the job you’re applying for and it’ll give you a list of relevant skills. You can also upload your resume to the tool — it’ll perform a quick scan and tell you which skills are missing from your resume.

In your resume summary

When applying for roles involving data analysis, put your analytical skills front and center in your resume summary . Your summary should be 3-6 lines, including your key skills and experience related to data analysis. For an even better chance of getting past Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) , include a resume title that matches the title of the job you’re applying for. For example:

Include key analytical skills in a summary at the top of your resume

In your cover letter

If you want to talk about your skills in a little more depth, your cover letter is the ideal place. Reinforce that you’re a good fit for an analysis-heavy role by expanding on how you’ve used your analytical skills, including the context, end result, and how you plan to use those skills in the position you’re applying for.

Here's an example:

During my internship with Airbus working with fluid mechanic technology I evaluated wind tunnel and flight test data in order to reduce external airframe noise emissions. The analysis that I conducted involved examining data under varying flight conditions and extracting useful information. At the conclusion of my internship, I was able to provide my group with recommendations for improving the model scale testing in the wind tunnel to make better predictions for the flight test outcomes. My work was part of the group’s task to provide continual improvements to the company’s commercial aircraft. I would be excited to use my analytical skills to improve hardware systems, especially early in their life-cycle at Raytheon, when recommendations can have a high impact and positive result for the end user.

Sample resume with analytical skills

Really need to emphasize analytical skills on your resume? Here's an example of what you should be aiming for:

Example of a full resume demonstrating analytical skills

You can download this resume template in Google Docs or as a Microsoft Word document.

Notice that not once does this example use the words “strong analytical skills.” Instead, it demonstrates these skills through previous experience, technical skills, appropriate qualifications, and the use of resume power words.

Get a free resume analysis

The best way to figure out if your resume conveys enough analytical skills is to upload it to the tool below — you'll get a confidential resume review, with a detailed analysis of your analytical skills.

Analytical skills bullet point examples

You don’t have to start from scratch when coming up with examples of resume accomplishments that demonstrate analytical skills. Here are some examples to help you get started:

Don't just say that you analyzed something — mention exactly what you did and what the results were.

Led the first major effort to A/B test the company's core sales landing page and optimize it for customer acquisition; resulted in a 18% increase in new customers.

You can always list hard skills in your Skills section, but it's even better if you can weave them into your bullet points as well.

Built Looker dashboard using data from MySQL and MongoDB to visualize core business KPIs (e.g. Monthly Recurring Revenue), saving 18 hours per week of manual reporting work.

What employers care about most is the bottom line, so if you made a measurable impact on your company, start with that.

Reduced signup drop-offs from 35% to 18% and increased user engagement by 20%, through a combination of hypothesis testing, segmentation analysis and machine learning algorithms.

Problem solving and critical thinking are essential components of analytical skills. Hiring managers aren't just looking for someone who can solve the problems presented to them — they want people who can seek out answers on their own.

Implemented crash reporter and used findings to fix three biggest causes of crashes; fixes reduced customer support calls by 30%.

Communication and analysis may seem like very different skills, but they often go hand in hand. The best employees are the ones with a healthy mix of hard and soft skills — things like teamwork, leadership, and communication.

Co-led task force to realize $1.62m annual savings; analyzed large sets of data to improve fixed and variable cost inputs and recommended additional invoice validation measures.

How to tailor your analytical skills to match the job description

Matching the skills you highlight on your resume with each specific job description is an essential part of showing a recruiter why you’re the right candidate for the job, and how your previous experience is relevant to their position.

Here's how to tailor your analytical skills to each job you apply for:

  • Analyze the job description : Carefully read the job posting and identify any analytical skills specifically highlighted in the text. Employers often list specific tools, methodologies, or problem-solving approaches they prefer, so take note of these.
  • Use relevant keywords : Look for keywords in the job description and use a keyword finder to generate a list of relevant words to include on your resume. Including these keywords not only shows that you have the specific skills a recruiter is looking for but also helps your resume get past Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).
  • Customize your experience : In your work experience section, emphasize aspects of your previous roles that align with these keywords and requirements. For example, if the job requires data visualization, highlight your experience with tools like Tableau or Power BI, and demonstrate your practical experience in contexts similar to what the job will entail.
  • Highlight transferable skills : If you are switching industries or applying for a role that involves a different kind of analysis than you've done in the past, focus on transferable analytical skills like data interpretation, statistical analysis, or logical reasoning.
  • Quantify your achievements : Whether discussing projects, specific tools, or transferable skills, use metrics to quantify your experience. For example, instead of simply saying that you “worked to improve the efficiency of your project’s marketing campaign” , write that you "Used statistical analysis to improve marketing campaign efficiency, resulting in a 20% increase in customer engagement."

How to highlight specific analytical tools on your resume

When applying for roles that require proficiency in specific analytical tools, it's crucial to highlight and mention the particular tools you have experience with. These tools are likely the exact tools you will be using in your new position, so it’s important to be specific about your experience with each one, even if you’re just a beginner.

  • Split up your skills list: Dedicate a portion of your skills section to list the analytical tools you are proficient with, like Excel, SQL, Python, R, Tableau, SAS, or SPSS.
  • Highlight your proficiency: Be specific about your level of expertise, such as beginner, advanced, or expert, and the projects you’ve used them in. Even if you are only a novice in a skill, it is worth including if it’s relevant to your application.
  • Mention specific tools in your work experience bullet points: Directly mention tools in your work experience section, to demonstrate not just the particular tool but also how you have used it in a work context. For example, “Utilized Python and Pandas library for data manipulation and analysis in a market research project.”
  • Describe specific projects and the scope of your skills : If you’ve worked on academic or personal projects that involved data analysis, describe the tools and software you used, the scope of your involvement, and the positive results. This showcases your practical application of these tools in real-world scenarios, even if you lack paid experience with these skills.

How to showcase analytical skills at different career stages

Whether you're just starting out, are mid-career, or are looking for senior positions, here are tailored tips to highlight your analytical skills effectively.

Entry-level candidates

For entry-level candidates, focus on educational and project experience, especially if you lack extensive paid work experience. You can highlight analytical skills you learned through university projects, internships, and relevant coursework and showcase your eagerness to learn and adapt by including relevant certificates or workshops.

Conducted comprehensive data analysis using Python during a university project, resulting in actionable insights to improve campus recycling programs.

Mid-level candidates

If you have a range of paid experience, provide examples of how you've applied specific analytical skills in your previous roles. Show your skill development by discussing how you've expanded your skill set over time, such as learning new data analysis tools or methodologies relevant to your field.

Leveraged data analytics to optimize supply chain processes, resulting in a 15% reduction in costs over two years.

Senior professionals

If you’re applying for a senior position, you want to demonstrate your leadership in analytical roles. Focus on how your analytical skills have contributed to strategic decision-making and leadership, and highlight the impact of your analytical skills on company goals, such as improving efficiency, increasing revenue, or driving innovation.

Guided a team in the implementation of advanced data modeling techniques, enhancing predictive capabilities by 25%.

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4 Ways to Improve Your Analytical Skills

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  • 07 Jan 2021

Data is ubiquitous. It’s collected at every purchase made, flight taken, ad clicked, and social media post liked—which means it’s never been more crucial to understand how to analyze it.

“Never before has so much data about so many different things been collected and stored every second of every day,” says Harvard Business School Professor Jan Hammond in the online course Business Analytics .

The volume of data you encounter can be overwhelming and raise several questions: Can I trust the data’s source? Is it structured in a way that makes sense? What story does it tell, and what actions does it prompt?

Data literacy and analytical skills can enable you to answer these questions and not only make sense of raw data, but use it to drive impactful change at your organization.

Here’s a look at what it means to be data literate and four ways to improve your analytical skills.

Access your free e-book today.

What Is Data Literacy?

Data literacy is the ability to analyze, interpret, and question data. A dataset is made up of numerous data points that, when viewed together, tell a story.

Before conducting an analysis, it’s important to ensure your data’s quality and structure is in accordance with your organization’s needs.

“In order to transform data into actionable information, you first need to evaluate its quality,” says Professor Dustin Tingley in the Harvard Online course Data Science Principles . “But evaluating the quality of your data is just the first step. You’ll also need to structure your data. Without structure, it’s nearly impossible to extract any information.”

When you’re able to look at quality data, structure it, and analyze it, trends emerge. The next step is to reflect on your analysis and take action.

Tingley shares several questions to ask yourself once you’ve analyzed your dataset: “Did all the steps I took make sense? If so, how should I respond to my analysis? If not, what should I go back and improve?”

For example, you may track users who click a button to download an e-book from your website.

After ensuring your data’s quality and structuring it in a way that makes sense, you begin your analysis and find that a user’s age is positively correlated with their likelihood to click. What story does this trend tell? What does it say about your users, product offering, and business strategy?

To answer these questions, you need strong analytical skills, which you can develop in several ways.

Related: Business Analytics: What It Is & Why It’s Important

How to Improve Your Analytical Skills

Analysis is an important skill to have in any industry because it enables you to support decisions with data, learn more about your customers, and predict future trends.

Key analytical skills for business include:

  • Visualizing data
  • Determining the relationship between two or more variables
  • Forming and testing hypotheses
  • Performing regressions using statistical programs, such as Microsoft Excel
  • Deriving actionable conclusions from data analysis

If you want to provide meaningful conclusions and data-based recommendations to your team, here are four ways to bolster your analytical skills.

Related: How to Learn Business Analytics Without A Business Background

1. Consider Opposing Viewpoints

While engaging with opposing viewpoints can help you expand your perspective, combat bias, and show your fellow employees their opinions are valued, it can also be a useful way to practice analytical skills.

When analyzing data, it’s crucial to consider all possible interpretations and avoid getting stuck in one way of thinking.

For instance, revisit the example of tracking users who click a button on your site to download an e-book. The data shows that the user’s age is positively correlated with their likelihood to click the button; as age increases, downloads increase, too. At first glance, you may interpret this trend to mean that a user chooses to download the e-book because of their age.

This conclusion, however, doesn’t take into consideration the vast number of variables that change with age. For instance, perhaps the real reason your older users are more likely to download the e-book is their higher level of responsibility at work, higher average income, or higher likelihood of being parents.

This example illustrates the need to consider multiple interpretations of data, and specifically shows the difference between correlation (the trending of two or more variables in the same direction) and causation (when a trend in one variable causes a trend to occur in one or more other variables).

“Data science is built on a foundation of critical thinking,” Tingley says in Data Science Principles . “From the first step of determining the quality of a data source to determining the accuracy of an algorithm, critical thinking is at the heart of every decision data scientists—and those who work with them—make.”

To practice this skill, challenge yourself to question your assumptions and ask others for their opinions. The more you actively engage with different viewpoints, the less likely you are to get stuck in a one-track mindset when analyzing data.

2. Play Games or Brain Teasers

If you’re looking to sharpen your skills on a daily basis, there are many simple, enjoyable ways to do so.

Games, puzzles, and stories that require visualizing relationships between variables, examining situations from multiple angles, and drawing conclusions from known data points can help you build the skills necessary to analyze data.

Some fun ways to practice analytical thinking include:

  • Crossword puzzles
  • Mystery novels
  • Logic puzzles
  • Strategic board games or card games

These options can supplement your analytics coursework and on-the-job experience. Some of them also allow you to spend time with friends or family. Try engaging with one each day to hone your analytical mindset.

Related: 3 Examples of Business Analytics in Action

3. Take an Online Analytics Course

Whether you want to learn the basics, brush up on your skills, or expand your knowledge, taking an analytics course is an effective way to improve. A course can enable you to focus on the content you want to learn, engage with the material presented by a professional in the field, and network and interact with others in the data analytics space.

For a beginner, courses like Harvard Online's Data Science Principles can provide a foundation in the language of data. A more advanced course, like Harvard Online's Data Science for Business , may be a fit if you’re looking to explore specific facets of analytics, such as forecasting and machine learning. If you’re interested in hands-on applications of analytical formulas, a course like HBS Online's Business Analytics could be right for you. The key is to understand what skills you hope to gain, then find a course that best fits your needs.

If you’re balancing a full-time job with your analytics education, an online format may be a good choice . It offers the flexibility to engage with course content whenever and wherever is most convenient for you.

An online course may also present the opportunity to network and build relationships with other professionals devoted to strengthening their analytical skills. A community of like-minded learners can prove to be an invaluable resource as you learn and advance your career.

Related: Is An Online Business Analytics Course Worth It?

4. Engage With Data

Once you have a solid understanding of data science concepts and formulas, the next step is to practice. Like any skill, analytical skills improve the more you use them.

Mock datasets—which you can find online or create yourself—present a low-risk option for putting your skills to the test. Import the data into Microsoft Excel, then explore: make mistakes, try that formula you’re unsure of, and ask big questions of your dataset. By testing out different analyses, you can gain confidence in your knowledge.

Once you’re comfortable, engage with your organization’s data. Because these datasets have inherent meaning to your business's financial health, growth, and strategic direction, analyzing them can produce evidence and insights that support your decisions and drive change at your organization.

A Beginner's Guide to Data and Analytics | Access Your Free E-Book | Download Now

Investing in Your Data Literacy

As data continues to be one of businesses’ most valuable resources, taking the time and effort to build and bolster your analytical skill set is vital.

“Much more data are going to be available; we’re only seeing the beginning now,” Hammond says in a previous article . “If you don’t use the data, you’re going to fall behind. People that have those capabilities—as well as an understanding of business contexts—are going to be the ones that will add the most value and have the greatest impact.”

Are you interested in furthering your data literacy? Download our Beginner’s Guide to Data & Analytics to learn how you can leverage the power of data for professional and organizational success.

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How to Show Analytical Skills

Last Updated: September 28, 2022 References

This article was co-authored by Diane Martinez . Diane Martinez is a Certified Holistic Life Coach and Founder of Conscious Creating Life Coaching, LLC in Atlanta, Georgia. Diane has over 10 years of coaching experience and works with clients in person and virtually on a variety of topics including career decisions, family relationships, anxiety, and setting boundaries. Diane earned her Coaching Certification from Alan Cohen's Holistic Life Coach Training Program. This article has been viewed 18,660 times.

If you're applying for a job that requires analytical thinking, there are several ways you can highlight your skills to make you look desirable to potential employers. When writing a cover letter, resume, or CV, think of times when you've demonstrated skills such as problem solving, researching, or critical thinking. The interview is the time to explain how you problem-solve in detail, showing that you have strong communication skills and an analytical mind.

Writing about Your Skills

Step 1 Spotlight times when you analyzed material.

  • You might say that you analyzed a previous company's marketing strategies and improved them, leading the company to increase sales by 15%.

Step 2 Emphasize your problem-solving skills.

  • Make sure you didn’t cause the issue — maybe another employee messed up and you solved the problem, or your boss wanted to make something better and you came up with a solution.
  • An example of how to incorporate problem-solving skills into your cover letter might be, "I noticed that our product was being sent back within the first month in many cases. After reading the reviews from the specific people who returned the item, I found that our product was made of weak plastic. I set a plan in motion to change the plastic to a stronger material."

Step 3 Draw attention to how you can effectively research.

  • An example might be, “Researched the best type of freezer truck to invest in and came up with a cheaper alternative to the one currently being used.”

Step 4 Show that you’ve worked with large numbers and data.

  • An example might be that you maintained and updated an Excel spreadsheet with all of the clients’ information on it, and it would be listed under your job description.
  • Using exact numbers, percents, or figures on your resume, cover letter, or CV will show professionalism while also providing more detail.

Step 5 Explain how your creative thinking is beneficial.

  • Maybe you thought of an out-of-the-box solution to a problem, or you came up with different methods of tackling a job.

Step 6 Highlight how you’re great at communication.

  • This is a skill you could list on your resume under job responsibilities, or you could mention a time when you communicated information to a group in your cover letter.

Step 7 Write about events or projects that you planned.

  • For example, you might say that you planned a company-wide meeting, mentioning how many people attended and what was accomplished at the meeting.

Step 8 Point out any improvements you made at previous jobs.

  • You could talk about how you used your analytical skills to increase the number of hits your company’s website got per day, or how you improved the production process while decreasing production time.
  • Mentioning improvements you've made is something you can list on your CV under the specific job title. It's also a great topic to bring up in a cover letter to show how you stand out.

Showcasing Your Skills During an Interview

Step 1 Research questions that are likely to be asked.

  • For example, some typical questions from potential employers include, “How do you go about solving an issue when you’re not sure where to start?” or “Give an example of a time when you were given a problem to fix, and how you came up with a solution.”

Step 2 Come prepared with problem-solving success stories.

  • Avoid sharing stories where the problem was caused by you, even if you did solve it.
  • Choose stories that are relevant to the job that you’re interviewing for.
  • An example might be, "I noticed that the attendance had dropped at our most recent fundraisers, so I decided to poll the previous attendees to see how they'd describe their experience. I found that many people wanted to donate money but didn't have time to attend fundraisers, so I set up an online donating system."

Step 3 Provide details in your answers.

  • Instead of just saying that you planned a marketing event, you could say that you researched the targeted audience of the product and then created a marketing strategy that captured the attention of potential buyers, increasing sales by 30%.
  • While you want to give details, you also want to make sure the details are relevant.

Step 4 Be prompt with your responses.

  • If your job was to create password protection apps, you could start off by asking your interviewer if they use an app, journal, or other item to keep track of their passwords. Then you can give them a general summary of how you did your job, explaining the details as you would to someone who worked in a different job field.

Expert Q&A

  • Always try to include exact numbers in your responses to questions, as well as when highlighting specific examples on a resume, CV, or cover letter. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

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  • ↑ https://blog.mindvalley.com/analytical-skills/
  • ↑ https://coverlettersandresume.com/resume/skills/list-of-analytical-skills-for-resume/
  • ↑ https://www.monster.ca/career-advice/article/organizational-skills-resume-examples
  • ↑ http://www.bridging-the-gap.com/top-10-business-analyst-job-interview-questions/
  • ↑ https://content.wisestep.com/show-analytical-skills-cover-letter-cv-interview/
  • ↑ https://biginterview.com/blog/2014/02/behavioral-interview-question-problem-solving.html

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Strong Analytical Thinking Skills: Example Usage on Resume, Skill Set and Top Keywords in 2024

Three ways to show your analytical skills on your resume in 2023!

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Is your resume ATS-friendly?

Drop your resume here or upload a file to find out if the skills in your resume are readable by an ATS.

In This Guide:

What are analytical thinking skills, why are analytical thinking skills important on your resume.

What traits, skills, and abilities help you demonstrate strong analytical skills on your resume?"?

How to demonstrate strong analytical thinking skills on your resume

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Analytical thinking skills are a set of soft skills that help you recognize, collect and process data related to a problem that needs to be solved efficiently. They also help you identify improvement possibilities or predict and prevent disaster.

Great analytical thinking skills usually cover a spectrum of abilities such as Communication, Creativity, Critical thinking, Data analysis, and Research.

To demonstrate what we mean, let’s have a quiz. In WW2, the RAF aimed to reinforce their airplanes so that they have a better chance of survival. They knew which parts of the airplane received the most bullet holes. So, what did they do? Keep reading and you will find out.

Because analytical thinking skills are a set, you will need to demonstrate them indirectly in your resume, highlighting the abilities we mentioned a few lines earlier. HR officers will look for them in the skill section, especially if the job title you are applying for contains the word “analyst”.

In simple words, analytical thinking skills ensure survival and progress. In the corporate world, analytical skills are vital for making an enterprise profitable. Those with analytical skills show the way and lead the path. Decisions and actions are based on those skills and without them, any company is doomed. This is why the most sought-after employees and executives are the ones with a proven record of analytical thinking. To see patterns and trends, to draw logical conclusions, and be able to communicate that within the organization is a must in finances, data science, medicine, marketing, law, and many more well-paid and prestigious positions.

What traits, skills, and abilities help you demonstrate strong analytical skills on your resume?"?

  • Observation skills and curiosity : sometimes the data you need to solve a problem is not delivered to your desk. You need not only to see what is in front of you, but what is missing. Remember our RAF planes? Some came back, but some did not.
  • Research : once you notice a problem, you will have to look for data. Here you need to be patient, study the problem, and collect all the relevant information and data you can. You need to be creative in finding places where to look for it.
  • Data analysis : to analyze data, you need to be able to concentrate and systematize the information. This is where the patterns and dependencies will show up. Your job is to make sense of it and come up with a conclusion.
  • Creativity and Critical thinking : to be able to think critically and creatively means to be able to avoid the obvious. Often, critical thinking means exploring even impossible angles to find a solution. A good example that comes to mind is Israel’s 10th man approach, depicted in the movie “Z world war”. The rule states that the 10th member of their council is obligated to doubt anything if all nine others agree on a decision. By the way, do you still think about the RAF planes? Back then they found the solution, avoiding the obvious.
  • Communication : once you have a solution, you will need to find a way to communicate it to your colleagues. Here you need to know how to present the information when to present it, how to draw attention and how to inspire.
  • Give examples with critical situations on your job that demonstrate those skills
  • Describe a specific process or method you use
  • Think of major achievements and breakthroughs made possible by your analytical skills
  • If you practice brain games and read a lot of books, make sure to include this in the “Interests” section, as these improve analytical skills.
  • List specific courses or certificates related to analytical skills

Writing “Strong analytical thinking skills” on your resume is simply not enough. You will need to prove your case, convincing the HR officer that you might be able to think analytically. You have to show examples, achievements and be creative. Remember, the HR officer uses analytical skills as well to find a suitable candidate.

Below you will find relevant examples that will help you start:

Example 1: Show your analytical thinking skills in your experience bullet point

  • • Developed a market entry strategy in California, targeting 1 million bottles sold in the first year of operations
  • • Increased the store turnover by 20%and the main KPIs by 15% by proficient management of stock and orders
  • • Successfully managed and motivated a 5-member team, reducing the staff turnover to 0
  • • Successfully managed events with more than 50 suppliers involved and up to 500 participants
  • • Recruited, trained and managed multicultural team composed of approximately 100 persons
  • • First ever digital content into TV integration increased impressions +2%
  • • Invented a cross-category solutions, bringing +3% penetration on Telivus portfolio and +5.7% sales increase

Example taken from our Project Manager resume guide

The applicant demonstrates strong analytical skills by meeting his sales forecast. His analysis of stock and orders allowed him to implement a strategy that resulted in savings for the company. This also shows that he can work with data. The experience in managing events with more participants and at a bigger scale repeatedly shows the candidate’s ability to plan and communicate. The word “Invented” speaks of creativity.

Example 2: Demonstrate analytical skills in your resume summary

Example taken from our Software Engineer resume guide

We can see that the candidate has a major achievement. More importantly, the achievement is for an “optimized” network. Any optimization is a result of analytical skills. Especially useful are achievements confirmed by a third-party organization.

Example 3: Use your achievements to make the point

Example taken from our Resumes of Chernobyl article

This is what counts. We can see that Mr. Legasov “Led the investigation” of the Chernobyl disaster, which is to show that he conducted research and collected data. Then he analyzed the data and using creative and critical thinking he came up with conclusions and solutions. “Pointed to the problems” is the most incredible part of his achievements. Although the party and the whole political situation did not allow for honesty and the spread of information, he put his will and communication skills and work and informed the world about the dangers of RBMK-1000 reactors.

Top related skills to strong analytical skills:

  • Public Speaking
  • Demonstrate, do not claim: Lead the HR officer through your achievements and results.
  • Make them believe in you: List any awards and recognition.
  • Be wise with words: Sort and clear sentences. Action and power verbs. Only the essence. You will explain the details later at the interview.

And what happened to those pilots and their planes? An analyst at the RAF concluded that they need to reinforce the parts of the plane where there are no bullet holes. The reason for this was that although hit many times, the planes they studied returned after all. The rest hit in other places, did not.

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How to List Problem-Solving Skills on a Resume [List Included]

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Problem-solving skills are more in-demand than ever. 

Employers love candidates with problem-solving skills because, in 99% of cases, they guarantee you're also logical, creative, clear-headed, and a great decision-maker. 

But claiming you have organizational skills on your resume is not enough. 

To impress recruiters, you've got to prove that you possess them. 

This includes understanding which problem-solving skills you possess and adding them to your resume (the right way), among other things.

This is where this article comes in! We put together everything you need to know about problem-solving skills, including: 

  • 8 Essential Problem-Solving Skills for Your Resume

How to Add Problem-Solving Skills to Your Resume

  • Why Are Problem-Solving Skills Important
  • 6 Problem-Solving Steps

Let's dive right in! 

8 Problem-Solving Skills for Your Resume

Research shows that problem-solving skills consist of several facets : 

  • Identifying and analyzing a problem
  • Taking effective actions
  • Understanding the effect of the decisions
  • Coming up with creative and novel solutions
  • Transferring knowledge from one situation to another
  • Thinking abstractly about problems

As such, there is no single problem-solving skill. Problem-solving includes a set of skills, all of which are equally important in helping your personal and professional life. 

Below, we’ll cover the eight most important problem-solving skills that you can also list on your resume to impress recruiters: 

#1. Research skills

To properly identify and understand a problem, you need excellent research skills. 

Research skills involve being able to gather information from the right sources, reviewing that information in detail to extract the data you need, analyzing the data according to the context, and being able to apply the data to your situation. 

#2. Analytical skills

Analytical skills are required throughout the entire process of solving a problem. 

In a nutshell, analytical skills refer to being able to analyze a situation in depth and from different perspectives . Specifically, you need analytical skills to achieve all of the following while solving a problem:

  • Detect patterns
  • Interpret data
  • Analyze new information
  • Reach conclusions based on several factors

#3. Creativity

Being creative means being able to think outside of the box and look at situations and problems inventively. 

For most people, creativity is mainly associated with creative industries such as arts and crafts, architecture, design, etc. 

In reality, however, creativity is an essential success factor for every job and the data is here to support that. According to this Adobe study , problem-solving (51%) and creativity (47%) have gained the most value in driving salary increases in the last five years. 

When it comes to the process of solving a problem, creativity can help you consider more perspectives, think abstractly about problems, and come up with novel solutions that others haven’t thought of before.

#4. Critical thinking skills

Being able to think critically means that you’re good at rationalizing, understanding the connections between ideas or situations, and logically analyzing any given situation. 

As such, strong critical thinking skills can help you see beyond what’s at face value, make more informed decisions, and anticipate the outcomes of said decisions. 

People who have critical thinking skills share traits such as open-mindedness , cognitive flexibility , skepticism , clarity , and precision . 

#5. Decision-making skills

Before coming up with a single action plan to solve a problem, you’ll need to first brainstorm several possible solutions. 

After that, you need good decision-making skills to choose the best possible solution. Without decision-making skills, you risk prolonging finding a proper solution or aggravating a problem even more. 

#6. Communication skills

With strong communication skills , you’re able to successfully explain the problem to others and propose your solutions. In turn, you can be sure that everyone’s on the same page and that you’re carrying out the action plan accordingly. 

Some communication skills required for problem-solving include: 

  • Active listening
  • Written and verbal communication
  • Giving and receiving feedback

#7. Collaboration

Problem-solving is rarely a process you carry out alone. More often than not, you need to consult relevant stakeholders, give and receive feedback, and work with a team towards a common goal (i.e. solving the problem).

Well, collaboration entails exactly that - working well with others, cooperatively addressing problems, and putting a group’s goal ahead of personal goals. 

Some important collaboration skills that help with problem-solving include: 

  • Conflict resolution
  • Emotional intelligence 

#8. Attention to Detail 

Have you ever heard of the expression “the devil’s in the details?”

It means that something may seem simple on the surface, but in fact, the details make it complicated and are likely to cause problems.

Well, if you’re someone who shows great attention to detail, you’re not likely to let details keep you from solving a problem effectively. 

Not to mention, being able to spot and understand even the smallest details that make up a problem means you’ll be able to grasp the issue in its entire complexity and come up with even more inventive and workable solutions. 

Now that we covered the most important problem-solving skills, we’ll show you how to add them to your resume so that you can stand out from other candidates. 

Let us walk you through the process, step-by-step: 

#1. Mention Your Problem-Solving Skills on Your Resume Summary

The resume summary is a three or four-sentence paragraph positioned at the top of your resume that includes: 

  • Your profession and years of experience 
  • Your top skills (i.e. hard skills or soft skills)
  • One or two noteworthy achievements 

problem-solving-skills-resume-summary

The goal of the resume summary is to catch the hiring manager’s attention, show them you’re a relevant candidate and get them to go through the rest of your resume in detail. 

As such, it’s your first chance to highlight your problem-solving skills effectively. You can either do that by mentioning them among your top skills or by mentioning an achievement that proves you possess a given skill.

In the best-case scenario, you can even do both. 

Here is an example of how you can include problem-solving skills in your resume summary: 

  • Behavioral psychologist with 7+ years of experience in the field. Great research, analytical, and communication skills. Over the last eight years, I’ve worked closely with more than 100 patients with different behavioral disorders, helping them improve their personal and professional lives through different treatment methods. 

#2. Add the RIGHT Problem-Solving Skills Under Your Soft Skills

Secondly, you should list your problem-solving skills under your resume’s soft skills section . 

The listing part is pretty easy - simply create a section titled Skills and write down your problem-solving skills.

There is, however, one caveat: 

You don’t want to overkill your skills section by listing every problem-solving skill we covered in this article.

Not only will the hiring manager have trouble believing you possess each and every skill, but there’s also a high chance you don’t even need all those skills to begin with. 

To make your skills section as relevant as possile, do the following: 

  • Check the job description. The job description can show you exactly what skills you need for the job. If you’re applying for, say, a software engineering position, you’ll probably be required to have the following problem-solving skills: analytical skills, creativity, attention to detail, and cognitive flexibility. 
  • Identify the skills you possess. Think about which skills you can back up with actual experience from your previous jobs. Only list problem-solving skills that you actually possess and that you can prove you possess on your resume. 
  • Add those skills under your soft skills. Then, add the problem-solving skills that you have and that are required in the job under your resume’s “Soft Skills” section. 

#3. Prove Your Problem-Solving Skills In Your Work Experience Section

Finally, you should use the work experience section to prove that you’ve got the problem-solving skills you’ve mentioned throughout your resume. 

Anyone can just claim that they’ve got problem-solving skills on their resume - not everyone can back them up with experience.

Here’s what you can do to convey that you possess problem-solving skills and also make your work experience section as impactful as possible: 

  • Tailor your work experience to the job. Only add past jobs that are relevant to the position you are applying for now. If you’re applying for, say, a software engineering position, the hiring manager will be interested in your previous jobs in the field, but probably not too interested in the time you worked as a server at a restaurant. 
  • Focus on your achievements instead of your responsibilities. More often than not, hiring managers know exactly what your responsibilities consisted of in previous jobs. What they want to know is how you made a positive impact with your achievements. 
  • Make your achievements quantifiable. Speaking of achievements, you want to make them as quantifiable as possible. After all “treated ten patients in the course of a year using positive reinforcement” sounds much better than “treated ten patients.”
  • Use the Laszlo Bock formula . If you’re having trouble phrasing your achievements, the following formula will probably be of help: “Accomplished X as measured by Y doing X.” 
  • Leverage action verbs and keywords. There are hundreds of words and verbs you can use instead of “did,” “accomplished,” etc. The more descriptive you are of your achievements, the more impressive they can sound.

And here’s an example of a project manager describing their problem-solving skills in their work experience section:

  • Fixed company communication issues by implementing a new project management solution. 
  • Improved team productivity by implementing time-tracking software and doing daily stand-up calls.
  • Managed to meet all client deliverable deadlines in 2022.

Why Are Problem-Solving Skills Important?

Are you wondering what exactly is it that makes problem-solving skills so important? 

After all, there are hundreds of soft skills out there that you can master, improve, or learn how to add to your resume. So it’s normal to wonder “why should I focus on problem-solving?” 

Here is why problem-solving skills matter:

  • They can improve your employability. Problem-solving skills are among the most important skills to employers across a range of occupations. In short, employers are always looking for proactive thinkers who can address professional challenges.
  • They can help you grow in your career more easily. You’ll be more likely to get promoted if you can come up with creative solutions to the different problems that you’ll face throughout your career.
  • They can become an essential part of your personal brand . Your current employer, coworkers, and future employers alike will see you as someone creative, reliable, and helpful.
  • They are related to a range of other valuable skills. When you prove you’re a problem solver, you’re effectively saying you’re attentive to detail, logical, creative, analytical, curious, and other things employers are looking for in their employees.

10 Jobs That Require Problem-Solving Skills

As we’ve already mentioned, problem-solving skills come in handy for practically every job. 

Whether you’re a teacher who needs to solve a dispute between peers in your class or a customer representative who needs to help a client, knowing how to go about solving issues is definitely an asset. 

That said, some jobs are all about solving problems. In such cases, problem-solving skills are not just a nice addition to have on your resume - they’re crucial to getting hired. 

Here are the top 10 jobs requiring problem-solving skills in 2024: 

  • Software engineer
  • Air-traffic controller
  • Police officer
  • Social worker
  • Psychologist
  • UX designer

35 Action Verbs You Can Use to Highlight Your Problem-Solving Skills

The language you use to describe your problem-solving skills matters.  

Sure, you can use “ solved” to describe how you dealt with a problem throughout your entire resume and risk coming off as repetitive and unimaginative. 

Or , you can use any of the following action verbs and keywords and make your problem-solving skills pop out in the eyes of recruiters: 

  • Calculate  
  • Critically think 
  • Draw conclusions
  • Experiment 
  • Listen/Listen actively 

The Problem-Solving Process in 6 Steps

Problem-solving is a methodical process. It consists of certain steps that you always need to take if you want to find a good solution. 

The more you understand and practice this process, the better you can get at solving problems. 

Below, we cover the six main steps of problem-solving in detail:

#1. Identify the problem 

The first step to solving a problem is identifying exactly what’s causing it. 

After all, if you’re not focusing on the real underlying issue, you might come up with solutions that don’t fit the problem itself. 

Say, for example, that you’re a teacher that’s facing poor class performance. Identifying whether the problem comes from the students’ not studying enough or from your own teaching methods can make a big difference in the solutions you come up with. 

It typically happens that the faster you find the root cause of the problem, the easier it is to find a proper solution. 

#2. Understand the problem

Once you identify the problem, you’ve got to understand it completely. Here are some questions you can ask to make sure you properly understand a problem: 

  • What is the scale of the problem? 
  • What are its short and long-term effects? 
  • Have you faced something like this before?
  • Can the problem be solved by dividing it into smaller parts?

The better you understand the problem in its complexity, the more likely you are to come up with effective solutions. 

#3. Research the systems that make up the problem 

In many cases, solving a problem will be a complex undertaking. See, complex problems are often the result of several different underlying systems that you need to understand to find a dynamic solution. 

Let’s take the teacher example from above. 

If a certain student is not doing too well and keeps getting poor grades, you might be tempted to go the easy route and simply chastise them and tell them to study more.

This, in a lot of cases, might simply not work because you’re not addressing the root cause of the problem.

The student might, for example, be burned out , unmotivated by the curriculum, or simply struggling with specific topics.

A problem-solving solution that’s more likely to work would be to talk to the student (or their parents), try to understand the reason for their poor grades, and address the root cause behind the problem itself.

#4. Visualize the problem 

This may not apply to all situations, but it can definitely come in handy for most. 

Drawing a diagram to visualize the situation or your solution to the problem can help you grasp its complexity better - especially if the problem is multi-faceted. Anything from PowerPoint to a piece of white paper can be a good tool to visualize your problem, highlight the problem area, and tackle it more effectively.

#5. Brainstorm solutions 

After you’ve done all the above, it’s time to start thinking about solutions. 

This is another step of the problem-solving process that’s based on collaboration and effective communication. In the brainstorming phase, you should sit with team members or relevant stakeholders and come up with as many creative ideas and solutions as possible. 

This is not where you come up with your most refined, well-thought-out ideas. Instead, it’s where you discuss freely and combine diverse knowledge and analysis of the problem to come up with diverse solutions. 

Brainstorming is an essential part of problem-solving that can help you break out of boring or predictable ideas and thinking patterns. 

#6. Choose the best answer(s)

This is where decision-making skills come in. With a list of different potential solutions, you can narrow down your options to finally choose the best one. 

To reach a solution more easily, take the following into consideration:

  • Your company’s/organization’s objectives
  • The budget and the timeframe at your disposal
  • The success outcomes
  • Potential risks linked to the solution 

Finally, discuss your solutions with relevant stakeholders and team members to gather all the possible feedback that can help you make the best possible decision. 

And remember - once you’ve chosen the best possible solution to a problem, your work is far from over. Being a problem solver also includes the following: 

  • Develop and implement an action plan
  • Monitor the progress of your plan 
  • Make necessary adjustments during the process
  • Evaluate the outcomes of your solution 

Problem-Solving Skills Resume Example

Problem-Solving-Skills-Resume-Example

Want a resume that makes your problem-solving skills pop like the above example? 

Use one of our tried-and-tested resume templates . 

They’re free, modern, and created in collaboration with some of the best HR professionals from around the globe!

Key Takeaways 

And that's a wrap on problem-solving skills. By now, you should know everything there is to know on the topic. 

Before you go, here are the main points we covered in this article: 

  • Problem-solving skills are a set of soft skills that help you solve problems effectively. They involve critical thinking, analytical skills, creativity, communication skills, and attention to detail. 
  • Problem-solving skills can improve your employability, work performance, and personal brand. 
  • Add your problem-solving skills to your resume summary, under the soft skills section, and in your work history section. 
  • When you’re creating your work history section, make sure to tailor it to the job, focus on your achievements and make them quantifiable, and use action verbs and keywords from the job description. 
  • To get better at solving problems, follow these steps: identify and understand the problem, research the systems that make up the problem, visualize the problem, brainstorm, and choose the best possible solution. 
  • Once that’s done, create an action plan and make sure to monitor its progress as you’re implementing it. 

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Key Strategies for Enhancing Analytical Problem Solving Skills

Key Strategies for Enhancing Analytical Problem Solving Skills

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In my ten years of management, I’ve encountered a wide array of challenges, each presenting a unique set of problems to solve. Tapping into analytical problem solving skills has not only been advantageous but crucial in navigating these hurdles effectively.

Adopting a methodical approach has enabled me to dissect issues, analyze data, and forge solutions that are not just quick fixes but sustainable improvements. This skill set is a powerful tool that has consistently added value to the organizations I’ve worked with, affirming that the ability to analyze, think critically, and solve complex problems is pivotal in today’s dynamic professional landscape.

Understanding Analytical Problem Solving Skills

Analytical problem-solving skills form the foundation of successful decision-making and troubleshooting in any professional setting. An analytical skill is essentially the ability to dissect problems, identify patterns, and derive logical solutions based on the information provided. These capabilities are closely linked with analytical thinking, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills, each playing a vital role in the process of addressing complex issues.

Analytical Thinking : This involves the systematic breakdown of complex situations or data sets. By engaging in analytical thinking, one becomes adept at organizing and interpreting data, recognizing underlying themes, and using these insights to forecast potential outcomes.

Critical Thinking : Critical thinkers question assumptions rather than accepting them at face value. They evaluate arguments, detect inconsistencies in the rationale, and are not easily swayed by emotional appeals. This skill is crucial because it supports the overall analysis by ensuring the conclusions reached are well-founded and unbiased.

Problem Solving : At its core, problem solving is about identifying and resolving issues that impede progress. Effective problem-solving skills demand both creativity and analytical thought to navigate obstacles and develop efficient strategies. This involves a careful analysis of the problem, generating feasible solutions, and implementing them effectively.

The Interconnection of Skills

The relationship between analytical skills, critical thinking, and problem-solving is dynamic. For instance, effective problem solvers are often skilled analysts. They leverage data and information to understand problems comprehensively and apply their critical thinking to evaluate the solutions they devise. Similarly, being a strong analyst often requires robust critical thinking capabilities to evaluate and synthesize data accurately.

Understanding these skills and how they interplay to solve complex problems not only enhances your professional toolkit but also elevates your capacity to contribute meaningfully in various scenarios. By mastering these abilities, professionals can ensure their readiness to tackle a wide range of challenges, making them invaluable assets in any workforce.

Why Improve Your Analytical Skills?

Improving your analytical skills has both immediate and long-term benefits in today’s data-driven world. Strong analytical capabilities enable professionals to make sense of vast amounts of data, spot trends, and solve problems effectively. Here are some compelling reasons why enhancing your analytical skills is worthwhile:

1. Enhanced Decision-Making : With refined analytical skills, professionals can make decisions that are informed, data-backed, and more likely to lead to success. This heightened decision-making ability is critical in managerial roles where the stakes are high and the impact of decisions is significant.

2. Increased Efficiency : A keen analytical eye can identify inefficiencies and areas for improvement within an organization’s operations. Through data analysis and critical evaluation, processes can be optimized, saving time and resources.

3. Better Problem Anticipation : Analytical thinkers are often ahead of the curve when it comes to anticipating potential challenges. They can recognize patterns and predict issues before they arise, allowing organizations to be proactive instead of reactive.

4. Career Growth : Professionals who demonstrate strong analytical and problem-solving skills are often considered for leadership roles. Their ability to analyse complex problems, think critically, and devise effective solutions makes them prime candidates for advancement.

5. Adaptability to Change : The modern business environment is continuously evolving. Individuals with robust analytical skills are better equipped to adapt to changes because they can quickly comprehend new data and information and adjust their strategies accordingly.

6. Value in Diverse Fields : Analytical skills are not industry-specific—they are valuable across various fields. From science and technology to business and the arts, the ability to solve complex problems with a skill like analytical thinking is universally sought after.

Strategies to Enhance Your Analytical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills

Improving your analytical thinking and problem-solving skills is a dynamic process that involves a range of strategies. By incorporating these strategies into your daily routine, you can develop a sharper, more analytical mindset and become more adept at navigating complex problems.

Engage in Continuous Learning

Continuous learning is the cornerstone of analytical thinking. The more you know, the better equipped you are to think critically about various topics.

  • Read Widely : Expand your reading list beyond your core interests. Diverse knowledge can inspire new ways of thinking and problem-solving.
  • Take Courses : Online platforms offer courses on everything from data analysis to critical thinking. These can provide structured ways to enhance your skills.

Practice Mindfulness and Reflection

Mindfulness and reflection can hone your ability to focus and dissect problems effectively.

  • Reflect Regularly : Spend time reflecting on your day, the decisions you made, and how you could improve your problem-solving approach.
  • Mindfulness Exercises : Practices like meditation can enhance your focus, aiding in clearer and more analytical thought processes.

Solve Puzzles and Play Strategic Games

Puzzles and games are not just fun—they’re exercises for your brain. Engaging in these activities can sharpen both your analytical thinking and problem-solving skills.

  • Puzzles : Crossword puzzles, Sudoku, and logic problems can enhance pattern recognition and strategic thinking .
  • Strategic Games : Chess, strategy-based video games, and board games can improve your ability to anticipate and plan for future scenarios.

Adopt a Questioning Mindset

To develop your analytical skills, challenge yourself to ask more questions and become comfortable with not immediately knowing the answers.

  • Ask “Why” and “How” : When faced with a statement or conclusion, drill deeper by asking why it’s valid and how it was determined.
  • Seek Multiple Perspectives : Before forming your own viewpoint, explore different angles and viewpoints on an issue.

Learn from Mistakes

Analytical thinking is often a process of trial and error. Reflect on mistakes as learning opportunities.

  • Constructive Analysis of Failures : Instead of dismissing failures, analyze them to understand what went wrong and why.
  • Feedback Loops : Encourage feedback from peers and mentors to gain insights into your problem-solving approach and how it can be improved.

Utilize Technology and Tools

Technological tools can support and enhance your analytical capabilities.

  • Data Analysis Tools : Familiarize yourself with software that can help you manipulate and analyze data (e.g., Excel, Tableau, etc.).
  • Project Management Software : These tools can help you break down big projects into manageable parts, fostering a more analytical approach to completing tasks.

Collaborate and Share Knowledge

Collaboration exposes you to different ways of thinking and problem-solving.

  • Engage in Brainstorming Sessions : Collaborative brainstorming can unveil unique solutions to problems.
  • Seek Mentorship : Mentors can offer insights and advice based on their own experiences and analytical journeys.

By integrating these strategies into your professional and personal development plans , you can gradually enhance your analytical thinking and problem-solving skills. Remember, the goal is not to become perfect but to continually improve and adapt.

Practical Applications of Analytical Skills in the Workplace

Analytical skills are not just abstract qualities valued in the theoretical realm; they have tangible, practical applications in various aspects of the workplace. Whether you’re navigating everyday tasks or steering strategic decisions, these skills can dramatically impact your effectiveness and the value you bring to your organization. Below are key areas where analytical skills play a vital role.

Data Analysis and Interpretation

In an era where data is considered the new oil, the ability to analyze and interpret data is indispensable. Professionals with strong analytical skills can sift through data sets to identify trends, patterns, and anomalies.

  • Making Informed Decisions : By accurately interpreting data, you can make decisions that are backed by evidence rather than intuition.
  • Predictive Analysis : Analyzing historical data allows for predicting future trends, helping organizations to prepare and strategize effectively.

Problem-Solving

Every business faces challenges, and the ability to problem-solve effectively sets apart successful organizations.

  • Root Cause Analysis : Analytical thinkers can drill down to the root cause of a problem instead of just addressing symptoms, and ensuring long-term solutions.
  • Optimization : Identifying inefficiencies and conceptualizing solutions can streamline processes, saving time, resources, and money.

Strategic Planning

Strategic planning requires a high degree of analytical thought, as it involves forecasting, risk assessment, and scenario planning.

  • Long-term Vision : Through careful analysis, professionals can devise strategies that align with the company’s long-term goals.
  • Risk Management : Analyzing potential risks and preparing mitigation strategies can protect the organization from future crises.

Communication and Reporting

The ability to communicate complex information in an understandable and actionable manner is a critical application of analytical skills.

  • Data Visualization : Translating data into visual formats such as charts and graphs can help stakeholders understand insights at a glance.
  • Effective Reporting : Crafting reports that highlight key findings and recommendations based on data analysis supports informed decision-making.

Project Management

Managing projects efficiently is a complex task that requires a blend of analytical and organizational skills.

  • Task Prioritization : Analyzing the importance and urgency of tasks can aid in effective prioritization, ensuring critical projects are completed first.
  • Resource Allocation : Assessing the resources (time, people, money) needed for various projects and allocating them in the most efficient manner is essential for project success.

Innovation and Product Development

Analytical skills are at the heart of innovation and designing products that meet market needs.

  • Market Analysis : Understanding market trends and customer needs through analysis can direct the innovation process towards viable product ideas.
  • Feasibility Studies : Before committing resources, analytical skills help in evaluating the feasibility of new products or modifications, considering factors like cost, target audience, and market demand.

By developing and applying analytical skills in these areas, professionals can significantly contribute to the success and growth of their organizations. The versatility of analytical skills underscores their importance across job functions and industries, making them key competencies in the professional world.

Concluding Thoughts

The journey to enhancing and applying your analytical skills in the workplace is an ongoing process that can lead to substantial personal and professional growth . By understanding the practical applications and benefits of these skills as outlined in the previous sections, you are now equipped to take deliberate steps toward integrating them into your daily work life.

Start small by identifying opportunities in your current role where a more analytical approach can be applied. Whether it’s through data-driven decision-making, a methodical approach to problem-solving, or strategic planning for future projects, each step you take will build your confidence and competence in using these skills.

Remember, the goal is not to overhaul your working style overnight but to incrementally incorporate analytical thinking and problem-solving strategies into your routine. Seek feedback from peers and mentors, reflect on your successes and areas for improvement , and remain open to continuous learning and development.

By committing to this path, you’ll not only enhance your value within your organization but also set the stage for a fulfilling, dynamic career fueled by insightful analysis and strategic thinking. Embrace the challenge, and let the journey towards becoming a more analytical thinker in the workplace begin today.

Key Strategies for Enhancing Analytical Problem Solving Skills

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How to develop and demonstrate your problem-solving skills

Analytical and critical thinking skills, why employers want these skills, examples of how analytical or problem solving skills can be developed or evidenced, final thought....

  • Self-motivation & Initiative
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We all solve problems on a daily basis, in academic situations, at work and in our day-to-day lives.  Some of the problems that are typically faced by students include: 

  • Putting together an argument for an essay
  • Dealing with an awkward customer when working part-time in a shop or restaurant
  • Thinking about how you are going to manage your budget to keep you going until the end of term
  • Working out why your printer won’t respond
  • Developing a strategy to reach the next level of a computer game.

Any job will also bring problems to be faced. It is important to show to a recruiter that you have the right skills to resolve these problems, and the personal resilience to handle the challenges and pressure they may bring. You need to be able to: 

  • Evaluate information or situations
  • Break them down into their key components
  • Consider various ways of approaching and resolving them
  • Decide on the most appropriate of these ways

Solving these problems involves both analytical and creative skills . Which particular skills are needed will vary, depending on the problem and your role in the organisation, but the following skills are key to problem-solving:

how to show analytical and problem solving skills

  • Lateral Thinking
  • Logical Reasoning
  • Persistence 

Analytical and critical thinking skills help you to evaluate the problem and to make decisions. A l ogical and methodical approach is best in some circumstances: for example, you will need to be able to draw on your academic or subject knowledge to identify solutions of a practical or technical nature.  In other situations, using creativity or l ateral thinking will be necessary to come up with ideas for resolving the problem and find fresh approaches  Not everyone has these two types of skills in equal measure: for this reason, team working is often a key component in problem-solving. Further skills, such as communication, persuasion and negotiation , are important in finding solutions to problems involving people.

how to show analytical and problem solving skills

Whatever issue you are faced with, some steps are fundamental: 

  • I dentify the problem
  • D efine the problem
  • E xamine the options
  • A ct on a plan
  • L ook at the consequences

This is the IDEAL model of problem-solving.  The final stage is to put the solution you have decided on into practice and check the results. 

Any workplace, project or task will have challenges or obstacles which need to be overcome. If an organisation employs people who are adept at solving problems at all levels, it reduces the need for complex chains of command or lessens demand on managers' time. In short, it will help save time and therefore money.  Analytical skills are perhaps becoming increasingly important; we are all bombarded with huge amounts of information every day. Being able to quickly yet comprehensively identify and evaluate the most important or relevant information for the organisation or your specific job role will be an increasingly useful skill. 

  • Leisure activities (e.g. chess, logic games, computing).
  • Overcoming obstacles to achieve an ambition or goal.
  • Working in a customer environment and resolving complaints, particularly in situations where there is no protocol.
  • Research (e.g. for essays or projects, or within the workplace).
  • Particular achievements in the workplace (e.g. devising new working practices to improve efficiency, information systems development, diagnosing and rectifying faults or issues).
  • Creative solutions to coursework problems.
  • Identifying appropriate source material for assignments. 

A large cosmetics company had a problem in that some of the soap boxes coming off the production lines were empty. The problem was quickly isolated to the assembly line, which transported the packaged boxes of soap to the delivery department: some soap boxes went through the assembly line empty. The management asked its engineers to solve the problem. They spent much time and money in designing a machine with high-resolution monitors manned by staff; to scan all the boxes on the line to make sure they weren't empty.  A workman hearing about this, came up with another solution. He got a powerful industrial fan and pointed it at the assembly line. As each soap box passed the fan, the empty boxes were blown off the line. Moral: the simplest solution is usually the best!

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The Continuous Quest for Challenges: Fueling Job Satisfaction Through Problem-Solving Leaders In Tech

Seeking challenges is the lifeblood of technical professions, driving continuous growth, innovation, and job satisfaction. In fields like engineering, computer science, and software development, analytical skills are paramount in identifying problems and devising effective solutions. Professionals thrive on tackling complex issues, using data and critical thinking to navigate a landscape of ever-evolving obstacles. Praveen Kesani, Head of Transformation and Digitization and Technology Executive (CTO) for Commercial and Corporate Banking at Wells Fargo, exemplifies this mindset. His relentless pursuit of challenges not only fuels his professional gratification but also propels his team and organization toward groundbreaking advancements in technology and banking. Here’s more about Praveen Kesani Visionary Technology Executive with 20 plus years of diverse experience in managing financial services portfolio across digital channels, payments, treasury, lending, commercial and corporate investment banking, retail, fraud mitigation, due diligence and onboarding operations domains. Praveen is a leader with deep experience in conceptualization and delivery of engaging and efficient customer experiences and platforms. Effective in combing problem solving, agile delivery and innovation/transformation strategies. Praveen has experience in building high performance delivery and engineering teams and managing global organizations of 200+ staff and 50M+ budgets. Delivers Consistent Results in Optimizing the Business Value of IT: - Run technology as a business, identifying opportunities to drive growth and innovation, while understanding that investment decisions have a direct business impact. - Apply a balanced approach between focusing on the disruptive potential of digital, APIs AI, Cloud, Mobility and Automation to drive transformative change while taking into account legacy systems/processes. - Closely collaborate with all organizational functions to ensure a common language for essential conversations with key stakeholders, and provide visibility into the details of strategy, risks and execution.

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COMMENTS

  1. What Are Analytical Skills? 9 Examples & Tips to Improve

    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

  2. What Are Analytical Skills? Definition, Examples and Tips

    Key takeaways: Analytical skills are soft skills that help you identify and solve complex problems. Many jobs require analytical skills, like critical thinking, research and data literacy. Demonstrating analytical skills on your resume and in interviews can help you be a competitive job candidate.

  3. 45 Examples of Analytical Skills in the Workplace

    Problem-solving skills are key analytical abilities. These skills help you find solutions for issues using various methods, such as interpretation or communication. Having problem-solving skills is important for most professionals, as it allows them to work independently and suggest solutions to workplace problems. 10. Decision-making Decision ...

  4. How To Demonstrate Analytical Skills on Your Resume

    List any relevant degrees or other qualifications in your education section. Mention technical skills related to analysis in your skills section. Highlight analytical skills in your resume summary and cover letter. Use synonyms to avoid repeating "analyzed," "analysis," and "analytical skills.". An infographic showing ways to ...

  5. What Are Analytical Skills? Definition and Examples

    For example, you can use communication skills to explain a data visualization to team members and help them understand company performance, or to present high-level findings from a data exercise or statistical analysis. Examples of analytical communication skills include: Verbal communication. Storytelling. Chart, graph, and data presentation.

  6. Analytical Skills for Your Resume: Guide and 40+ Examples

    Critical thinking. Critical thinking skills and analysis go hand in hand. These are the core skills that allow you to reason your way through problems. Critical thinking skills to showcase on your resume: Identifying patterns. Logical reasoning. Evaluating arguments. Hypothesis development. Decision-making.

  7. How to Improve Your Analytical Skills

    4. Engage With Data. Once you have a solid understanding of data science concepts and formulas, the next step is to practice. Like any skill, analytical skills improve the more you use them. Mock datasets—which you can find online or create yourself—present a low-risk option for putting your skills to the test.

  8. How to Present Analytical Skills on a Resume With an Example

    Some steps to compile evidence for your professional resume are as follows: 1. Choose your most relevant experience. When thinking about what to include on your resume to demonstrate your analytical skills, it's a good idea to consider your previous experience. Resumes are typically one page, so it's important to choose the most relevant ...

  9. Analytical skills (With examples for career success)

    Examples of analytical skills. There are many types of analytical skills that you can apply in professional settings. Here are examples of the main skills that lead to effective analytical thinking: Critical thinking. Research. Communication. Data analysis. Problem-solving. Creative thinking.

  10. What Is Analytical Thinking and How Can You Improve It?

    Analytical thinking involves using a systemic approach to make decisions or solve problems. By breaking down information into parts, analytical thinkers can better understand it and come to a sensible conclusion. For instance, once analytical thinkers identify a problem, they typically gather more information, develop possible solutions, test ...

  11. Problem-Solving Skills: What They Are and How to Improve Yours

    Nearly all problem-solving requires some level of analysis, whether it be simply analyzing the current situation to form a solution or the analysis of data and research related to the problem. Analytical skills allow an individual to better understand an issue and come up with effective solutions based on evidence and facts. Analytical skills ...

  12. What Are Analytical Skills? Examples + List for Your Resume

    Here's a summary of the most points about analytical skills: There's no single definition of analytical skills. Analytical skills consist of a set of skills that includes problem-solving, data skills, and creativity among others. There are a large number of jobs requiring analytical skills.

  13. How to Show Analytical Skills: 13 Steps (with Pictures)

    4. Show that you've worked with large numbers and data. It's important to show that you're able to work with data while analyzing it as well. If you had a previous job that involved dealing with large numbers or organizing a wide range of information, this is a great skill to list on your resume or CV.

  14. How to Show Strong Analytical Thinking Skills on Your Resume

    Great analytical thinking skills usually cover a spectrum of abilities such as Communication, Creativity, Critical thinking, Data analysis, and Research. To demonstrate what we mean, let's have a quiz. In WW2, the RAF aimed to reinforce their airplanes so that they have a better chance of survival. They knew which parts of the airplane ...

  15. Mastering Analytical Skills: Understanding and Examples

    Having strong research and analytical skills helps you perform better, generate a higher quality of finished work and support the company's output and goals more effectively. Building and refining your analytical skills are important in roles that require analytical thinking and problem-solving, such as lawyers or research analysts.

  16. Show Off Your Analytical Skills in Your Job Search

    Problem Solving and Critical Thinking. A key set of analytical skills speaks to your ability to take what you've observed and use it to find solutions to problems or form a judgement. Budget allocation. Decision making. Deductive reasoning. Drawing conclusions. Inductive reasoning.

  17. 10 Ways To Improve Your Analytical Skills

    2. Build your mathematical skills Mathematics involves solving an equation step-by-step to reach an answer. Because all forms of mathematics are highly logical, sharpening your mathematical skills is a great way to refine your analytical skills. Practice various forms of math problems that will help build your logic and problem-solving ...

  18. How to List Problem-Solving Skills on a Resume [List Included]

    Then, add the problem-solving skills that you have and that are required in the job under your resume's "Soft Skills" section. #3. Prove Your Problem-Solving Skills In Your Work Experience Section. Finally, you should use the work experience section to prove that you've got the problem-solving skills you've mentioned throughout your ...

  19. Analytical Skills: How to Develop Your Analytical Skills

    Analytical Skills: How to Develop Your Analytical Skills. Written by MasterClass. Last updated: Nov 2, 2021 • 4 min read. Hiring managers and job recruiters value strong analytical skills. Develop and showcase your analytical thinking skills to help your application stand out. Hiring managers and job recruiters value strong analytical skills.

  20. How to answer questions about analytical skills

    This question requires you to demonstrate your research skills and problem-solving abilities. Use this opportunity to show what makes you unique and how analytical, organized, and detail-oriented you are by supporting your interview answer with real work experience. Sample answer: "Sales were down, and I needed to find a solution. I sent out ...

  21. Problem solving skills and how to improve them (with examples)

    Communication: being able to express ideas clearly and effectively. Analytical skills: breaking down complex problems into smaller parts and examining each one. Time management: allocating time and resources effectively to address problems. Adaptability: being open to change and willing to adjust strategies.

  22. Key Strategies for Enhancing Analytical Problem Solving Skills

    Engaging in these activities can sharpen both your analytical thinking and problem-solving skills. Puzzles: Crossword puzzles, Sudoku, and logic problems can enhance pattern recognition and strategic thinking. Strategic Games: Chess, strategy-based video games, and board games can improve your ability to anticipate and plan for future scenarios.

  23. Problem Solving and Analytical Skills

    Analytical and critical thinking skills help you to evaluate the problem and to make decisions. A logical and methodical approach is best in some circumstances: for example, you will need to be able to draw on your academic or subject knowledge to identify solutions of a practical or technical nature. In other situations, using creativity or lateral thinking will be necessary to come up with ...

  24. Problem-Solving Interview Questions: How-to + Examples

    To put these skills to the test, recruiters use "problem-solving" job interview questions, also known as analytical questions. Here are some common ones: Tell me about a situation where you had to solve a difficult problem. Give me a specific example of a time when you used good judgment and logic in solving a problem.

  25. Analytical Interview Questions and Example Answers

    Here are some common analytical questions employers ask, as well as example answers: 1. Describe a time when you were given a problem without a lot of information. How did you handle this situation? This question assesses your problem-solving skills, along with your research and logical thinking abilities.

  26. Boost Network Problem-Solving with Analytical Skills

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  27. ‎Leaders In Tech: The Continuous Quest for Challenges: Fueling Job

    Seeking challenges is the lifeblood of technical professions, driving continuous growth, innovation, and job satisfaction. In fields like engineering, computer science, and software development, analytical skills are paramount in identifying problems and devising effective solutions. Professionals t…