skill~420 mindifficulty

In-Warehouse Transformation with dbt

dbt is the standard tool for the 'T' in ELT, turning raw warehouse tables into tested, documented analytics models.

1

Learn it

Learn how dbt compiles modular SQL models with dependencies (ref/source), runs them in order, and layers transformations from staging to marts. Add built-in tests and auto-generated docs so transformations are trustworthy. This is where your ELT and dimensional-modeling knowledge becomes real code.

By the end you’ll be able to

  • Build modular SQL models with refs and sources
  • Add tests and documentation; structure staging and mart layers

Free resources

2

Practice

Build a small dbt project: two staging models and one mart, with at least two tests, running against your pipeline's warehouse.

3

Build it — your output

A dbt project with layered models, passing tests, and generated documentation.

4

Prove it — check yourself

You’re ready to move on when you can honestly say yes to each:

  • Can you explain what ref() does and why it beats hardcoded table names?
  • Can you add and run a not_null or unique test on a model?
  • Can you describe the purpose of staging vs mart layers?

Do it with AI

Use a free AI tool as your tutor and pair-programmer. Copy a prompt below into Claude, ChatGPT, or Gemini (for building, try Cursor or Copilot).

The habit: Try it yourself first — a little struggle is where the learning actually happens. Then ask for a hint before the answer — never copy blindly.

  • Understand itClaude / ChatGPT / Gemini

    I'm a beginner learning "In-Warehouse Transformation with dbt". Explain it in simple terms with a real-world analogy, then ask me ONE question to check my understanding — don't reveal the answer.

  • PracticeClaude / ChatGPT / Gemini

    Give me 3 short practice problems on "In-Warehouse Transformation with dbt" (my goal: build modular sql models with refs and sources), from easy to hard. Don't include the solutions yet — I'll try them first, then ask you to check.

  • Get unstuckClaude / ChatGPT / Gemini

    I'm stuck on this exercise about "In-Warehouse Transformation with dbt": [paste your attempt here]. Give me ONE small hint to move forward — do NOT give me the full solution.

  • Build & reviewCursor / Copilot

    Here is my work for a "In-Warehouse Transformation with dbt" task: [paste your code or answer]. Review it: point out what's wrong and WHY, and suggest improvements — but let me make the fixes myself.

  • Prove itClaude / ChatGPT / Gemini

    Quiz me on "In-Warehouse Transformation with dbt". Ask me 5 questions one at a time, wait for my answer each time, then tell me if I'm right and briefly why.

My notes