Which term describes the analytical process used to examine data and answer a research question?

• A. Data Analysis
• B. Data Collection
• C. Data Visualization
• D. Data Storage

Answer: (A)

Data analysis is the analytical process used to examine data and answer a research question. It involves looking at the information collected, organizing and sometimes cleaning it, and applying methods to uncover patterns, relationships, or trends. Through this work you interpret what the data say about the question you're investigating, drawing conclusions or testing hypotheses. This differs from data collection (gathering the data), data visualization (presenting data in graphs or charts), and data storage (keeping data safely and accessibly). For example, after you collect survey responses, you might calculate averages, compare groups, and explain what those results mean for your research question.