Which statement accurately describes primary data?

Primary data is specifically tailored for the research purpose, which means that it is collected with a specific question or hypothesis in mind. This type of data is original and collected firsthand by the researcher through methods such as surveys, experiments, interviews, or observations. Because it is designed to address particular research needs, primary data can provide highly relevant and targeted insights, making it essential for generating findings that directly relate to the researcher’s objectives.

In contrast, primary data is not inherently quantitative; it can also be qualitative, depending on how it is collected and analyzed. Reliability can vary based on the methodology used, and while primary data can sometimes require significant effort, it does not necessarily take less time to collect compared to secondary data, which involves analyzing information that already exists. Thus, the correct statement emphasizes the purposeful collection of data specifically for the research being conducted.