Lessons from Data Scientists

Introduction

• Focus on what actually matters

1. Start with the Right Mindset

• Redefine what "data scientist" means
• Ask the questions you're afraid to ask
• Focus on usefulness, not genius

2. Work Like a Real Data Scientist

• Slow down before you write your code
• Know when you're overbuilding
• Keep a mental checklist of assumptions

3. Communicate with Credibility

• Say what it means—not just what it is
• Talk to stakeholders as a data scientist
• Admit what you don't know

4. Learn from Mistakes and Stay Resilient

• Treat mistakes like story material
• Stop chasing tools you don't need yet
• Create simple systems and workflows

5. Own Your Career, Not Just Your Work

• Choose jobs that enable you to grow
• Build a reputation as a collaborator

Conclusion

• Develop in your data science career