Analytical awareness for non-analysts: a learning pathway

Analytical skills are in high demand across government, and are often required in many roles. Civil servants often need some analytical knowledge to:

• interpret basic data and produce clear and accessible tables, charts and graphs
• work alongside analysts and analytical teams to commission projects
• use evidence to inform decision-making and policy development

This learning pathway has been specifically developed for non-analysts and is organised into 5 stages that increase in complexity and detail. We recommend that all learners begin at stage 1.

Learning objectives

By completing this learning pathway you will:

• develop an understanding of core analytical concepts and techniques
• understand the stages and tasks involved in analytical projects
• be able to confidently apply analytical techniques into future work
• be able to consider evidence when making decisions

Stage 1: Why analysis matters and core analytical concepts

Work through:

• the Government Analysis Function Analytical Literacy Learning product
• our comprehensive Data Visualisation e-learning

You can develop your knowledge further by watching our YouTube videos to learn about:

• the role of analysis in government
• sampling
• percentage and percentage point differences
• mean, median, and mode

Stage 2: More in-depth learning to build awareness

Take some time to work through the following modules on Civil Service Learning:

• Data and analysis
• Analysing evidence: effective collaboration
• Data quality
• Quality of evidence, uncertainty and risk

Stage 3: Understanding analytical best practice

Read cross-governmental analytical guidance, including:

• the Government Functional Standard for Analysis
• the Code Of Practice for Official Statistics
• the Green Book: Appraisal and Evaluation
• the Aqua Book: Producing Quality Analysis
• the Magenta Book: Designing an evaluation

Stage 4: Considering a career in government analysis

Review the Government Analysis Function Career Framework to find out more about careers in government analysis. Use the role profiles to identify roles you are interested in, and the career pathways available.

Stage 5: Developing practitioner-level skills through learning

You can find an extensive collection of learning resources to develop your knowledge further on the Analysis Function Learning Curriculum.

Contact us

If you would like more information about this pathway, please email Analysis.Function@ons.gov.uk.