Final answer:
Before selecting metrics, one must understand the purpose of the measurement, the object being measured, and choose the most appropriate and practical unit for measurement. For instance, millimeters or centimeters would be sensible for measuring a textbook rather than meters or kilometers.
Step-by-step explanation:
Understanding Before Choosing Metrics
Prior to selecting metrics, it is essential to first understand several important aspects:
- The purpose of the measurement.
- The object or phenomena that you are about to measure.
- The most appropriate unit of measurement for accuracy and convenience.
For example, when you're like David trying to measure a textbook, understanding that a kilometer is too large for measuring something relatively small, such as a textbook, you can then rule out inappropriate units like kilometers and meters, narrowing it down to millimeters or centimeters. Understanding the context and purpose ensures that your metrics are relevant and useful.
In addition to this, it is also important to consider the audience of the report or analysis, any specific requirements and expectancies they might have, as well as making sure that the units and the methods of measurement chosen fit these requirements.