Why Python is outpacing R and SQL in data science

As the field of data science explodes, data professionals are increasingly using programming language Python to get work done, over other tools such as R and SQL, according to Harnham's US Data & Analytics Salary Guide 2019, released this week. With more professionals entering the field, the data science industry is moving from traditional "core" data scientists toward those with more specialized skillsets, the report noted. And in an active market, candidates are often able to be selective about the jobs they take. Data scientists move between roles more quickly than professionals in any other part of the tech industry, averaging less than two years in each position, the report found. SEE: Python is eating the world: How one developer's side project became the hottest programming language on the planet (cover story PDF) (TechRepublic) When it comes to tools, a common debate in the data science realm is whether or not Python or R is a better programming language for data work.