Question

which of the following is a difference between data and information?
a. data are usually subject to interpretation, whereas information is treated objectively.
b. data have the context needed to give them meaning, whereas information lacks context.
c. data contain a sequence of instructions that perform a specified task, whereas information does not.
d. data refer to raw, unprocessed facts and figures, whereas information is processed and organized.

Explanation:

Data is raw and unprocessed. Information is data that has been processed, organized, and given context. Option a is wrong as data is raw (not usually subject to interpretation in its raw form) and information is meaningful (not just objective). Option b is incorrect as data lacks context initially. Option c is wrong as data is not a sequence of instructions. Option d correctly differentiates data (raw) and information (processed).

Answer:

d. Data refer to raw, unprocessed facts and figures, whereas information is processed and organized.