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Does a Data Analyst need Python, or is Excel/Google Sheets enough?

Topic:Python vs Excel

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Answer:

For junior DA, SQL + Excel/Sheets is enough. Python (Pandas) gives an edge and +10% pay. Mate teaches both — Pandas as a bonus skill, not a base requirement.

Junior DA in Poland: SQL + Excel/Google Sheets advanced (pivot tables, VLOOKUP, scripts) — enough for a first job. Python (Pandas, NumPy, Matplotlib) becomes important for mid+ and gives an edge even as a junior: - +10% starting pay - Wider job pool (data science track, ML basics) - Path into Data Engineer (+30% pay) - Automation of repetitive analyses (real time saving at work). Mate academy teaches Python for DA (Pandas for EDA, Matplotlib for visualization, stats basics) — that gives you an edge over competitors using only Excel. R programming is niche in PL (mainly research/academia), not required. 2026 DA stack: SQL (must) + Python Pandas (great to have) + Tableau/Power BI (must) + statistics basics (must) (source: Mate academy data 2026).

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Mate academy is trusted and loved by thousands

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Thanks to Mate academy, after a previous unsuccessful attempt to enter the IT industry, I managed to find a job within 30 days of completing the course. A wealth of knowledge, support from mentors and assistance in conducting recruitment interviews are three of the many advantages that Mate academy offers on a new career path

Wojciech Wesołowski

Absolwent Mate

I highly recommend Mate academy. I tried to start working in IT for a long time. Thanks to Mate, I gained skills and confidence that are very important during applications and interviews. Within 2 weeks after the course, I received two job offers, so I can wholeheartedly recommend learning at Mate

Krzysztof G.

Absolwent Mate

What can I say about Mate academy? Theoretical and practical preparation at the highest level. But in my opinion, this is not the main advantage of this course - the advantage of this course are mentors who are convinced of your success and support you at every stage of your activity. Through learning practice, understanding theory, practicing soft skills, support in job search and related aspects.

Kacper Grosicki

Absolwent Mate

I recommend this course to people who want to enter the world of IT and don't know where to start. There is a lot of knowledge on the Internet, which is beneficial, but at the same time it can be confusing for a beginner. At Mate, you get a defined learning path waiting for the motivated student. Additionally, the help of mentors, test tasks and code reviews drive development and allow you to get your first job.

Sylwester Sobczak

Absolwent Mate

I highly recommend Mate academy to everyone who wants to start their programming adventure but doesn't know where to start. The several-month course offered by Mate academy will take you through the basics of programming to more and more advanced and complex projects, which you can later include in your CV, making it much easier to find your first job. I especially appreciate the support of the course mentors, who were available and willing to help not only during the designated course hours!

Hubert Wiktor

Absolwent Mate

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