How is qualitative data analysis characterized?

Qualitative data analysis is characterized by interpreting non-numerical data to find patterns. This type of analysis involves examining text, images, or other non-quantitative sources to derive insights and understand underlying concepts, themes, and perceptions. It emphasizes the richness of the data and aims to explore meanings, experiences, and the context behind the information collected. This approach is particularly useful in fields like social sciences, psychology, and anthropology, where understanding complex human behaviors and social phenomena is essential.

The focus on non-numerical data distinguishes qualitative analysis from quantitative methods, which deal primarily with numbers and statistical trends. This means that relying on numerical trends, summarizing findings into graphs, or only analyzing data from published studies does not align with the core principles of qualitative analysis, which values depth and context over numeric representation or restrictive analyses.