Ask Better Questions Before You Open the Spreadsheet

← All articles · Technology · October 2026 · 2 min read · By Nation Builders University

Start with the decision

Ask what decision the analysis will inform. That keeps the work focused and the result useful.

Check the data first

Look for missing values, duplicates and odd entries before you calculate anything. Clean data prevents confident mistakes.

Use simple methods first

Counts, averages, trends and simple charts answer many questions. Add complexity only when it helps.

Be honest about limits

State what the data cannot tell you, such as a small sample, a short period or a missing group.

Tell the story

Lead with the finding, show one clear chart and say what you recommend.

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