Qualitative data uses what type of reasoning?

Qualitative data uses what type of reasoning?

• A. Deductive reasoning
• B. Inductive reasoning (words)
• C. Inductive reasoning (numbers)
• D. Deductive reasoning (numbers)

Answer: (B)

Qualitative data are analyzed by building understanding from patterns in words. Researchers study transcripts, notes, and open-ended responses, then inductively identify themes and ideas that emerge from the data. This approach lets meaning and theory arise from participants’ descriptions and contexts rather than starting with a fixed hypothesis to test. In contrast, using numbers typically aligns with deductive reasoning, where a theory or hypothesis guides the analysis. So, when working with qualitative data in words, inductive reasoning is the standard path to uncover general insights from detailed, contextual descriptions.

Qualitative data are analyzed by building understanding from patterns in words. Researchers study transcripts, notes, and open-ended responses, then inductively identify themes and ideas that emerge from the data. This approach lets meaning and theory arise from participants’ descriptions and contexts rather than starting with a fixed hypothesis to test. In contrast, using numbers typically aligns with deductive reasoning, where a theory or hypothesis guides the analysis. So, when working with qualitative data in words, inductive reasoning is the standard path to uncover general insights from detailed, contextual descriptions.