What are the key differences between data analysts and data scientists?

I see the core difference clearly in day-to-day work: data analysts focus on interpreting historical data to answer business questions, while data scientists build predictive models and advanced algorithms; this distinction is often explained well in programs like those at H2K Infosys. Data analysts primarily use SQL, Excel, and BI tools to create reports and dashboards, whereas data scientists rely more on Python, statistics, and machine learning. In practice, analysts support operational decisions, and scientists drive forecasting and automation. Many professionals start with an Online Data Analytics certificate before transitioning toward data science as they gain coding, math, and modeling depth.