What is the role of statistical analysis in quantitative research?

The role of statistical analysis in quantitative research primarily focuses on interpreting numerical data. In quantitative research, data is often collected in numerical form, allowing researchers to apply statistical methods to analyze this data systematically. Statistical analysis enables researchers to identify patterns, correlations, and trends within the data, as well as to test hypotheses and make inferences about the population from which the sample was drawn. By providing a structured approach to handling numerical information, statistical analysis supports the objective evaluation of evidence and enhances the credibility of research findings.

The other options relate to different aspects of research. Gathering qualitative insights and exploring subjective experiences pertain to qualitative research methods that emphasize understanding human behavior in depth, often through interviews or open-ended surveys. Describing social phenomena could involve a broader range of methodologies, including qualitative and mixed methods, but it does not specifically highlight the central function that statistical analysis plays in understanding numerical data within quantitative research.