Question 9

Using data from a secondary source provides cost-efficient data.

Utilizing data from secondary sources often means accessing existing data that has already been collected and processed, which can significantly lower research costs compared to collecting primary data.

A) Reduces the chance of incorporating irrelevant data

While secondary data may offer some relevance, it does not inherently reduce the chance of incorporating irrelevant data. Researchers must still critically evaluate the appropriateness of the secondary data for their specific research question.

B) Reduces the time needed for data analysis

Although secondary data can streamline the research process by providing pre-existing information, it does not always reduce the time required for analysis. Researchers may still need to spend significant time understanding and interpreting the data.

C) Provides cost-efficient data

This option highlights a key advantage of secondary data. By leveraging existing datasets, researchers can avoid the expenses associated with primary data collection, making it a more economical choice for research initiatives.

D) Provides exact answers to research questions

Secondary data may not always provide exact answers to specific research questions, as the data was collected for different purposes. Researchers may find that the secondary data does not perfectly align with their inquiry, requiring additional interpretation.

Conclusion

Option C is definitively correct as it emphasizes the financial benefits of using secondary data, allowing researchers to save on costs associated with data collection. In contrast, the other options either misrepresent the nature of secondary data or fail to capture its primary advantage, which is cost efficiency.