What does "raw data" refer to in data analytics?

In data analytics, "raw data" refers to the original unprocessed facts and figures that have been collected but not yet analyzed or manipulated. This data can come from various sources such as surveys, sensors, transactions, or experimental trials. It typically contains inconsistencies, noise, and errors, as no statistical or analytical processing has been applied. The nature of raw data makes it crucial for further analysis, as it serves as the foundational building block from which insights and information are derived.

Processed information, summarized statistics, or graphical representations all involve some level of transformation or aggregation that removes or alters the original data attributes. Thus, they cannot be classified as raw data, which retains its initial form and meaning before being subjected to any analytical processes.