What is the primary purpose of qualitative data analysis?

The primary purpose of qualitative data analysis is to interpret non-numeric information, identify themes, and draw conclusions. This approach focuses on understanding the meanings, concepts, characteristics, and descriptions that emerge from non-quantitative data sources, such as interviews, open-ended survey responses, and observational notes.

Qualitative analysis allows researchers to delve deeper into the context and subtleties of the data, capturing the richness of human experience and social phenomena. By identifying themes and patterns, qualitative analysis helps in constructing a narrative that provides insights and understanding in areas where quantitative data may not be sufficient or appropriate. This interpretative process is crucial in fields such as social sciences, psychology, and market research, where understanding human behavior and experiences is essential for drawing meaningful conclusions.

In contrast, other options focus on numeric data or statistical approaches, which do not align with the essence of qualitative analysis.