Data refers to raw facts, figures, or information that is typically in a
form that can be processed or analyzed.Data is collected and used for
various purposes, including analysis, decision-making, and gaining
insights. In the context of computing and technology, data is often
organized and structured to be stored and processed efficiently.
There are two main types of data:
Structured Data: Data that is organized in a predefined manner, usually
in rows and columns, making it easy to search, query, and analyze.
Examples include databases and spreadsheets.
Unstructured Data: Data that lacks a predefined data model or structure.
It includes text, images, videos, and other forms of information that
are not organized in a specific way. Analyzing unstructured data may
require advanced techniques such as natural language processing.
In the field of data science and analytics, the process of extracting
useful information and knowledge from data is known as data analysis.
The importance of data has grown significantly in various domains, as
organizations use it to make informed decisions, identify trends, and
gain a deeper understanding of various phenomena.