How is data best described?

Data is best described as raw material that has to be processed. This means that data refers to unorganized facts and figures that, by themselves, hold little meaning until they are analyzed and interpreted. Just like raw materials are transformed into finished products through various processes, data requires processing, such as collection, organization, analysis, and interpretation, to generate meaningful information that can inform decisions or insights.

The other options highlight aspects that come after data has been processed. For instance, processed information ready for analysis refers to a stage following data processing, and useful insights drawn from statistics indicate the outcome of analyzing data, showcasing its value. Information generated automatically relates more to how data might be collected or produced rather than describing what data itself fundamentally is. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify the foundational role of data as an essential starting point in any analytical process.