Study Guide for UC Berkeley's Data8: Foundations of Data Science

Need help with Data8? Keep reading!

February 26, 2025

If you’re currently enrolled in UC Berkeley’s Data 8 (Foundations of Data Science) or a similar introductory data science course elsewhere, I’ve got something special for you. Over the years, I’ve tutored many students on Data 8 material—especially the trickier, more mind-bending concepts that can show up on exams. Now, with a midterm on the horizon (March 14th!), I’ve compiled an 18-page study guide covering core topics like Python programming, hypothesis testing, p-values, confidence intervals, linear regression, and more.

Check out my Github repo for access to this FREE PDF and other study guides!


What’s Inside?

  • Step-by-Step Solutions: Detailed explanations that walk you through every key concept, from understanding p-values to applying confidence intervals.
  • Exam-Style Questions: Realistic practice problems inspired by past Data 8 midterms and finals (from Spring 2022 to Spring 2024).
  • Tricky Topics Demystified: Material on p-values, confidence intervals, regression, and hypothesis testing—exactly the areas students tend to trip up on.

This guide is the culmination of years of 1:1 tutoring experience, noticing where students get confused and designing explanations and practice questions to help them overcome those obstacles.

Why This Guide?

  • Focus on What Matters: I’ve selected the questions that are most representative of what you’ll see on the Data 8 exam, so you can concentrate on the essentials.
  • Plain-English Explanations: No confusing jargon—just clear, down-to-earth explanations that help you truly grasp the concepts.
  • Improve Your Grades (and Confidence!): By walking through each solution, you’ll gain the skills and problem-solving mindset required not just to pass, but to excel.

For More Help

If you find yourself needing a bit more guidance (or if you just want to boost your grade even higher), I’m here to help! Email me here.

I’m a PhD candidate, a tutor, and I’ve successfully guided many students through Data 8 and other universities’ intro to data science courses. I’d love to work with you too!

Good luck, and happy studying! Be sure to snag my free 18-page Data 8 study guide as you prepare for the March 14th midterm. Let’s make data science a breeze—together.

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