A useful capstone shows how you reasoned from a question to evidence. A smaller, reproducible project is often easier to review than a large project whose data, assumptions, or evaluation cannot be explained.
Write a project brief
State the question, audience, unit of analysis, source, and intended use. Confirm that the data may be used and shared. Prefer public or synthetic data for a portfolio.
Document the workflow
Include preparation decisions, exploratory analysis, a baseline, and the reason for any model. Record the split method, metric, and limitations. Keep dependencies and run instructions clear so another person can reproduce the work.
Present evidence and uncertainty
Explain what the analysis shows, what it does not show, and what additional data or validation would be needed. Avoid causal or business claims that the project cannot support.
A portfolio demonstrates practice and communication; it does not guarantee employment or a particular outcome.