What is structured data?

Structured data refers to information that is highly organized and easily searchable within a data model. This type of data typically resides in fixed fields within records or files, which allows it to be efficiently stored, processed, and retrieved by database management systems. Examples include data housed in relational databases, where information can be manipulated using structured query language (SQL).

The characteristic of structured data fitting neatly into tables or spreadsheets is fundamental to its definition. Such formats allow for straightforward analysis and visualization, making structured data especially valuable in data analytics, reporting, and business intelligence applications.

In contrast, the other options do not fit the definition of structured data. Non-organized information, significant transformation, and multimedia files like images or videos represent unstructured or semi-structured data. Unstructured data lacks a predefined format and is often more complex to analyze due to its varied nature, whereas semi-structured data may contain some organizational properties but still does not reside in a rigid framework like tables. Thus, the focus on tables or spreadsheets directly aligns with the definition of structured data.