2.3 - Programming Foundations

Question 1

Why is programming useful for data analysis?

Answer 1

Programming allows you to automate tasks, manipulate large datasets, and perform repeatable analyses efficiently.

Question 2

Name two beginner-friendly programming languages often used in data analysis.

Answer 2

Python and R

Question 3

What is a variable in programming?

Answer 3

A container that stores a value which can be used and manipulated in code.

Question 4

A ______ is a reusable block of code that performs a specific task.

Answer 4

Function

Question 5

What is a list (or array) in programming?

Answer 5

A collection of items stored in a specific order that can be accessed and manipulated.

Question 6

A ______ loop allows a block of code to repeat until a condition is met.

Answer 6

While / For

Question 7

Which of these is an example of a programming task in data analysis?
A) Sorting a dataset
B) Cleaning missing values
C) Calculating averages
D) All of the above

Answer 7

D) All of the above

Question 8

What does “syntax” mean in programming?

Answer 8

The set of rules that defines how code must be written for it to run correctly.

Question 9

Why is debugging important?

Answer 9

To find and fix errors in code, ensuring accurate results and smooth execution.

Question 10

Writing clear and readable code is called ______.

Answer 10

Code readability / clean coding

Question 11

Give an example of a data-related task that can be automated with programming.

Answer 11

Examples: reading multiple files, cleaning repeated errors, generating reports.

Question 12

Why is understanding programming logic important before using advanced tools like Power BI or Tableau?

Answer 12

It helps you understand how data is processed, transformed, and can be prepared for visualization.