Google Data Analytics Professional Certification Practice Test

Making predictions in data analysis often relies on what?

1. Previous outcomes and patterns

2. Random sampling

3. Subjective opinions

4. Assumptions without data

The correct answer is: Previous outcomes and patterns

Making predictions in data analysis fundamentally relies on recognizing and analyzing previous outcomes and patterns. This approach allows analysts to utilize historical data to identify trends, correlations, and behaviors that can inform future projections. By examining data collected over time, analysts can build models that account for underlying structures within the data, leading to more accurate forecasting. The grounding in historical data is crucial because it enables the identification of consistent patterns that might suggest how variables interact. For instance, if a certain trend has been observed during specific periods or conditions in the past, analysts can reasonably predict that similar conditions may yield comparable outcomes in the future. Leveraging established patterns is a foundational principle of predictive analytics, underscoring the reliance on empirical evidence rather than speculation or conjecture.