In data analysis, which statement correctly describes the difference between sorting and filtering?

In data analysis, which statement correctly describes the difference between sorting and filtering?

• A. Filtering narrows data to relevant records.
• B. Sorting organizes data for viewing.
• C. Sorting changes data order and reduces data.
• D. Filtering sorts data by a criterion.

Answer: (B)

Sorting rearranges the records to present data in a chosen order, making it easier to view and compare. When you sort, every row stays in the dataset; you’re just changing the order based on a criterion like value, date, or alphabetic order. This helps you spot patterns or trends at a glance without losing any information. Filtering, in contrast, removes records that don’t meet specified conditions, narrowing the dataset. So describing sorting as organizing data for viewing captures its main purpose and how it differs from filtering, which reduces the amount of data rather than just rearranging it. The other statements mix up the concepts or misstate what sorting or filtering does.

Sorting rearranges the records to present data in a chosen order, making it easier to view and compare. When you sort, every row stays in the dataset; you’re just changing the order based on a criterion like value, date, or alphabetic order. This helps you spot patterns or trends at a glance without losing any information. Filtering, in contrast, removes records that don’t meet specified conditions, narrowing the dataset. So describing sorting as organizing data for viewing captures its main purpose and how it differs from filtering, which reduces the amount of data rather than just rearranging it. The other statements mix up the concepts or misstate what sorting or filtering does.