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Best way to learn quant skills(python/SQL)

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  • Apr 22nd, 2018 10:43 pm
Newbie
Apr 16, 2017
26 posts
5 upvotes

Best way to learn quant skills(python/SQL)

Hi guys,

I'm totally new to this field of quantitative analysis. Hoping someone would provide some color here.
I have been working in capital markets/investment management field for the past 7+ years before recently getting caught up in the middle of organizational change(M&A).
Given more free time on hands, I want to take this opportunity to develop new skills in quantitative analysis.

The main area of focus is using economic/financial data to help me with decision making process including predicting trends, building financial models, monitoring performance, and etc.
My knowledge of programming is None. I do use excel extensively at work, but do not know how to use VBA or Macro.
I realize that the statements are very generic and broad based, but bottom line is to develop more data-centric and independent quantitative framework.

So, what would be the best strategy to speed up the learning curve given more free time until I find the next opportunity?
1) What language/coding/programming should I be focusing on?
2) Intense offline courses if there is any?
3) Would certificates in Big Data Analytics from Ryerson or York help?(I have pretty good stats knowledge from econ background, so do not want to waste time learning about stats concepts)
4) What are some good online resources?(udemy, coursera, datacamp; which I have found from other posts)

Would love to hear everyone's thoughts and share your experiences.
Thanks in advance for everyone's inputs.
Thread Summary
What is the best way to learn quant skills(python/SQL)?
3 replies
Sr. Member
User avatar
Nov 15, 2016
543 posts
472 upvotes
jungshow wrote:
So, what would be the best strategy to speed up the learning curve given more free time until I find the next opportunity?
1) What language/coding/programming should I be focusing on?
2) Intense offline courses if there is any?
3) Would certificates in Big Data Analytics from Ryerson or York help?(I have pretty good stats knowledge from econ background, so do not want to waste time learning about stats concepts)
4) What are some good online resources?(udemy, coursera, datacamp; which I have found from other posts)

Would love to hear everyone's thoughts and share your experiences.
Thanks in advance for everyone's inputs.
1. VBA, SQL, Python (Numpy/Pandas), possibly Java
2. Try EDX online course in data analytics or a variation of that offered through EDX accredited University
3. Certs can help, but getting into data analytics/modeling/Quants is usually a practice built upon a lot of practical experience in the field imho. Certs may get you in the door, but the experience is where the decision to hire you will be
4. Try Udemy, look for the high rated/review courses in SQL, data analytics using Python, and general concepts in regards to data management/info systems

You mentioned you use Excel, I'd look into VBA to try some easy scripting/automation to get yourself familiar. I do find it a bit odd you've been in the Cap market/investment industry and have never had to use VBA macros, generally those are quite prevalent for number crunching/repetition in finance.
The main area is developing experience in SQL, Python, Java, and presenting the ability to manipulate data and automate logical decisions which is what Quants do, such as algorithmic trading strategies. The logic behind a lot of these methods require a big focus into programming to build the data-centric forward
thinking models. Before pouring money into certifications/courses.....try the free ones available that I've mentioned above to see how you like the introduction into the field, then see from there.
Newbie
Apr 16, 2017
26 posts
5 upvotes
Thank you for your response.

My area of work has focused on a lot of qualitative analysis(does not mean we do not work with numbers) as apposed to quantitative analysis(stats/modelling). This is why I would like to brush up quant skills.
I would love to be able to make a lot of research work/ processes more efficient.
I am very good at finding and manipulate relevant data, but given my limited knowledge in programming/computer skills, it is not always optimal for me to spend a lot of time doing quantitative analysis.
Since I am not looking to make a career transition, it would be nice to have certificate on my resume to differentiate, but not necessity.

I have done some homework myself over the weekends to see what would suit my needs.
Theses were potential courses I am interested in. I would prefer on-site courses to speed up the learning curve. And try online as I become more advanced to tailor my needs. Would love to know if anyone had any experiences with any of the courses listed below.

On-site
Brain station - Data Analytics Course/Data Science Course, https://brainstation.io/course/toronto/data-science
Wecloud - python for data science, https://weclouddata.com/course/python-for-data-science/
datasciencedojo - DATA SCIENCE BOOTCAMP, https://datasciencedojo.com/locations/toronto/
Accelebrate - Toronto Python Programming Training, https://www.accelebrate.com/python-training/toronto
Option Train, http://www.optiontrain.com/Python.php
Lantern, http://www.lanterninstitute.ca/programs ... ogramming/

Online
UDACITY, https://www.udacity.com/course/data-ana ... ree--nd002
simplilearn - Python for Data Science Certification Training Course in Toronto, Canada, https://www.simplilearn.com/python-for- ... ronto-city
Coursera - Introduction to Data Science in Python, https://www.coursera.org/learn/python-data-analysis

Thanks,

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