Define data. What are its types?

Data refers to the raw, unprocessed facts or figures collected for reference, analysis or processing. It represents information in various forms, such as numbers, text, images or symbols, which can be used to derive insights or make decisions when analysed.

Data is broadly classified into two categories:

1. Qualitative Data — It refers to the non-numerical information that describes characteristics, qualities or attributes of something. It can further be categorised into Nominal Data and Ordinal Data.
2. Quantitative Data — It refers to the data that can be measured, counted and expressed numerically. It can further be categorised into Discrete Data and Continuous Data.