Becoming Data Fluent: How to Write Data Stories (a really brief overview)
I recently published a short blog post on how analysts can upskill in the age of AI to remain relevant and lead with data. With the advent of these new tools, data analysts need to evolve or risk becoming obsolete. Let’s dive deeper into connecting data with strategy to help you succeed.
My career didn’t start in the finance industry or in analytics. I took a long winding path that began with a degree in History and Theory of Art. In that degree, I learned that art tells a story. It makes us feel. It comments on the current state of affairs and questions our long-held beliefs. The cool thing about data, is it can also do all of that!
After working in analytics for almost a decade, I can confidently say there is a great intersection between math and art. The creative spirits that make great data visualizations have a lot in common with the creatives that paint, draw and dance. Telling a good data story involves not only logic, but the application of colour and form, imagery and a focus on the audience that all other art forms must also apply.
Data storytelling is a superpower. It involves:
Structuring your analysis like a narrative: setup, conflict, resolution (or recommendation).
A well-crafted data story follows the same structural principles as a compelling narrative: setup, conflict, and resolution. The setup establishes context by introducing the business problem you’re solving, the supporting data, its source, and why it matters. The conflict—the heart of the story—highlights challenges, surprising insights, or contradictions that emerge from the analysis. This tension keeps the audience engaged, driving curiosity about potential solutions. Finally, the resolution presents a clear recommendation or actionable takeaway based on the analysis, ensuring the story leaves a lasting impact. By framing data analysis in this way, you transform data into a meaningful journey that informs and persuades.
Using visuals to enhance—not overwhelm—your message.
Data visualizations are powerful tools that can distill complex information into intuitive, digestible insights—but only when used strategically. The best visuals reinforce key findings without distracting from the overarching story. Every chart, graph, or infographic should serve a clear purpose, making the data easier to interpret rather than introducing unnecessary complexity. Thoughtful design choices, such as selecting the right type of visualization, limiting clutter, and maintaining accessibility, ensure your visuals complement your narrative rather than overshadowing it. A well-balanced approach to visual storytelling strengthens understanding, making your message resonate with your audience.
Ethically tailoring your story to your audience, whether it’s technical or executive.
A strong data story considers not just what to present, but how to present it, tailoring the message to the audience’s level of expertise and priorities. A technical audience may appreciate detailed methodologies and statistical rigor, while an executive audience values concise takeaways and business implications. Ethical storytelling ensures that while the message is adapted, the integrity of the data remains intact—never misleading or omitting critical context to shape a preferred narrative. By aligning the communication style with the audience’s needs while maintaining transparency, data stories can have powerful influence on business decisions.
Cool Data Story Examples from Around the Web:
Mapping Canada’s PFAS hotspots | CBC News
What Africa Will Look Like in 100 Years
Data Story Telling Cheat Sheet from DataCamp
Practical Data Makeovers from Storytelling with Data
Colour Data Picker for Analytics Projects
Now that you know a little more about data story telling and you have some resources at hand, I encourage you to look back on your previous analytical projects and ask how a little more creative energy and a little more focus on the narrative might have changed your experience as an analyst.
This is a question I am constantly asking myself.
Final Thought:
"Tell me a fact, and I'll learn. Tell me a truth, and I'll believe. But tell me a story, and it will live in my heart forever." - Ed Sabol
Post conceived of by Justeen Gales and written with the support of Microsoft Copilot