Which of the following is the first step in analyzing data?

The first step in analyzing data is understanding the objectives or the purpose behind the data analysis. Having a clear idea of what you want to achieve with the data sets a foundational goal for the entire analytical process. This clarity guides subsequent steps, such as determining what data to collect, how to clean that data effectively, and what specific analyses to perform.

When you know your objectives, you can focus on the relevant data types and methodologies that will yield meaningful insights. This foundational step ensures that time and resources are not wasted on unnecessary data collection and analysis, leading to more effective and targeted outcomes. By defining objectives first, you build a roadmap for the entire research or project, making the entire analysis more streamlined and impactful.