What is referred to as data that is collected for the first time?

The answer is primary data, which is defined as data that is collected for the first time directly from sources. This type of data is gathered through original research methods such as surveys, interviews, experiments, and observations, allowing researchers to obtain specific information tailored to their study's objectives.

Primary data is highly valuable because it is current and specific to the research question at hand, providing insights that secondary data, which is obtained from already existing sources, may not offer. Additionally, primary data collection often allows for greater control over the quality and relevance of the information being gathered, making it a preferred choice in many research scenarios.

In contrast, secondary data involves the analysis of information that has already been collected and published by others, which may not always completely align with the current research needs. Tertiary data consists of summarized and synthesized information that aggregates secondary data sources, often used for broader overviews rather than specific analysis. Qualitative data refers to non-numerical information that is more subjective and exploratory in nature, focusing on the qualities of a phenomenon rather than quantitative measurements. Each of these other categories plays a distinct role in research, but none captures the essence of primary data as effectively as data gathered firsthand.