Final answer:
The question pertains to raw data, which are unprocessed facts needing analysis and interpretation before they can be useful in supporting hypotheses. Understanding and interpreting data is a critical skill in today's information-rich society, used to distinguish between factual statements and opinions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The subject of this question is raw data, which refers to unprocessed facts that have not yet been analyzed or interpreted to reveal their meaning to the end user. Raw data are the actual measurements or observations made during an investigation. Before raw data can become useful evidence in supporting a hypothesis, they must undergo a process of analysis and interpretation, often utilizing statistical methods to make sense of the collected information.
Facts, in this context, are pieces of information that are true and can be proven correct or accurate, often established by experiment or observation. They are essential in providing reliable information, and readers expect researchers to present trustworthy data. Distinguishing fact from opinion is crucial in analytical reporting and in making informed decisions based on factual statements rather than subjective beliefs.
In the digital age, the skill of understanding and interpreting data is fundamental, and it has applications across various sectors including science, journalism, politics, and business. To convey meaningful information, raw data must be formatted for proper storage, processing, and presentation, ensuring that it can be effectively used to derive informed conclusions.