dbt is a crucial tool in analytics engineering, transforming raw data into usable models. Base models, also known as staging models, reference raw data directly from the source and are used by other models. These models should only include basic transformations like casting dates or renaming columns. Creating a style guide for naming conventions and data types is essential to maintain consistency across all data sources. Following best practices in organizing dbt projects ensures collaboration among team members and prevents potential data discrepancies.