IBM Data Science Practice Test

Which skill is considered most vital for a data journalist?

1. Database and data storage

2. Scripting language

3. Communication skills

4. Cloud Infrastructure

The correct answer is: Communication skills

In the realm of data journalism, communication skills stand out as the most vital competency. This is because the primary objective of a data journalist is to convey complex data insights in a format that is understandable and engaging for a diverse audience. Data can often be intricate and overwhelming, and effective communication helps distill this information, allowing the journalist to tell a compelling story. Being adept at various forms of storytelling — whether it's through written articles, visual presentations, or multimedia content — enables a data journalist to bridge the gap between raw data and public understanding. This skill not only involves writing effectively but also includes presenting data in ways that make it accessible and relatable, ensuring that the messages derived from the data resonate with the audience. While database skills, scripting languages, and cloud infrastructure knowledge are beneficial in data handling and analysis, they serve as tools to support the broader goal of storytelling. The emphasis on communication skills encapsulates the essence of data journalism — transforming data into narratives that inform, educate, and engage the public.