Data refers to individual facts, statistics, or items of information that are collected, measured, and analyzed for reference or analysis. In a digital context, data is typically represented in formats such as numbers, text, images, or audio, and serves as the foundation for processing, decision-making, and knowledge generation. Data can be structured, like entries in a database, or unstructured, such as emails or social media posts. Its quality, accuracy, and relevance are critical for deriving meaningful insights and supporting business, scientific, or technological activities.