How do I imporve analytical skills?

Answer 1

You don't, really. You either have them, or you don't.

You could practice out of an SAT or GRE practice book, but I doubt you would improve a whole lot.

Those are skills you develop your whole life, especially when you are young.

If you are young still, work harder in math class, that will help.

Answer 2

First, you need to define what you mean when you say "analytical skills". Analytical skills for a lawyer are not the same as analytical skills for, say, a statistitian. Generally, though, there is one thing that is common. You need to be able to identify assumptions on which an argument is built, whether they are stated or not, and scrutinize those assumptions.

Answer 3

Practice, practice makes perfect. How? Analysis and observes how other get the answer or solve the problems. Meaning, when something pops up, you do the analytical and see how others get it solve. In you mind you have you solution, compare yours and others see which is better and suitable for that situation.

Answer 4

Get an LSAT prep book. Seriously. I'm not saying take the test, but if you get good at doing the problems in the prep book, you're guaranteed to improve analytically.

Answer 5

Practice being more observant. Read reports produced by other analysts. There are three parts to analysis:
1. deciding how to gather info to make analysis (what do I need to know and how to get that info). Example: I need to know if people are using the system right.. I'll do that by spending a morning allowing one of the clerks to show me what she does everyday. Example: I need to know how many people use this system everyday... I'll get that by asking the IT dept to produce a report of all users. Example: I need to know what other companies are doing to solve this problem... I'll get that by researching on the internet and asking industry analysts or making calls to companies.

2. making the observations. Be observant. Be organized. Capture the smallest bit of info even if you dont see its importance at the time. Spend time after every session or phone call, typing up the details of your conversation and any observations you have as a result. Keep a file organized by observation area. Example: I might have a file where I keep all info and observations about training needs, how the clerk was confused about what to enter here, the technical literacy of my user group, the training material each user has from the current system, etc. This begins to organize your results as well. You'll find natural areas of focus as the analysis begins to take its own direction. Go do further research where it leads you. You'll begin to see the interrelationships between each of the areas as you continue to write up your daily notes.

3. Presenting your findings. Your daily notes should have sparked you to do further research. Example: Company A uses this product... I'll find out how much it costs for an organization our size and conduct initial calls with sales rep to guage their ability to meet out needs. Use your daily notes with the added info as material to copy into your final report template. Use industry standard templates until you get a feel for it and develop your own. Tailor your presentation material to your end audience. It could be you develop more than one: a presentation for Board, an executive summary for managers, an in-depth report too.

My best advice to you.... let your initial findings lead you to further research. Let the investigation and analysis go where it may. Never go into an investigation with pre-conceived ideas about your conclusions.

Good luck.

Answer 6

It just takes time and develops naturally. The more projects you do the faster you will progress. Although, it is something that should not be rushed.

Although, there are classes you can take to learn it, like Systems Analysis. This is just a starting point and a base outline.

Answer 7

I would suggest:

1) geometry
2) all math proofs
3) programming
4) physics

Answer 8

You should try improving your spelling skills.

Answer 9

Take things slowly.. no rush, patient, practice...

Answer 10

Just think about it!