The 4 Types of Data Analytics

four types of data analytics

The Four Types of Data Analytics

Data analytics helps professionals make smarter decisions, and it works just like a doctor treating a patient. Let us look at the four different types of Data Analytics from the perspective of how a doctor would treat a patient:

1.Descriptive Analytics looks at what has already happened. For example, when a doctor reviews a patients medical history, like past illnesses or treatments, they are using descriptive analytics to understand the situation.

2.Diagnostic Analytics digs deeper into why something happened. If the doctor finds that a patient’s blood pressure is high, they might explore the patient’s lifestyle or diet to uncover the cause. This step helps pinpoint the reasons behind the condition.

3.Predictive Analytics focuses on the future. Once the doctor has all the information, they might predict that, without changes, the patient could develop heart disease. Predictive analytics allows them to forecast potential outcomes based on current data.

4.Prescriptive Analytics suggests the best course of action. Here, the doctor creates a treatment plan such as exercise, medication, or diet changes, to help the patient avoid future health problems. This type of analytics tells you what to do next.

In short, these 4 types of analytics: descriptive, diagnostic, predictive, and prescriptive, work together to turn data into decisions, much like a doctor guiding a patient to better health!

Frequently Asked Questions:


What are the four types of data analytics?
Prescriptive, predictive, diagnostic, and descriptive analytics are the four categories.
What is descriptive analytics?
It summarises historical data to understand what has happened.
What is diagnostic analytics?
It investigates data to determine why something happened.
What is predictive analytics?
It uses historical data and statistical models to forecast the future.
What is prescriptive analytics?
It recommends specific actions to achieve the best possible results.
How are the four types connected?
They build on each other, moving from understanding the past to making informed decisions for the future.
Which type of analytics is most basic?
Descriptive analytics, since its sole goal is to summarise historical occurrences.
Which type is the most advanced?
Prescriptive analytics, as it uses AI, machine learning, and optimisation models to suggest actions.
Why is it important to know all four types?
Understanding all types allows businesses to use data effectively for both insight and action.
Can a business use all four types together?
Yes, integrating all four provides a complete data-driven decision-making approach.