In the context of data processing, what term is used for data that has been processed, organized or structured in a meaningful way?

Introduction / Context:
A classic concept in computer fundamentals and information systems is the distinction between data and information. Data is raw, unprocessed facts and figures, while information is data that has been processed and given meaning. Many exam questions directly test whether students can correctly use these terms.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The question asks what processed data is called.
• The context is general data processing in computing or information systems.
• Options include raw data, information, knowledge, analysis and record.
• We assume common textbook definitions of data and information.

Concept / Approach:
Raw data refers to unorganized facts, such as individual measurements, survey responses or transaction logs. When this data is processed, summarized or interpreted so that it becomes useful for decision making, it becomes information. Knowledge is a higher level concept that arises when information is combined with experience and understanding. Analysis is an activity, not the resulting product. Record is a unit of stored data, such as a row in a table, and does not necessarily imply meaningful processing.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Start from the key phrase processed data in the question. Step 2: Recall the commonly taught definition: data plus processing equals information. Step 3: Therefore, when raw data has been processed, organized or structured so that it is meaningful, the result is called information. Step 4: Option raw data describes the unprocessed starting point, not the result of processing. Step 5: Knowledge is usually described as information combined with context, experience or understanding, which is beyond the direct scope of this simple definition. Step 6: Analysis is the process or activity performed on data, not the processed output itself. Step 7: Record is a basic storage unit and can contain either raw or processed values, but the question focuses on the transformation from data into a more meaningful form. Step 8: Thus, among the choices, information is the correct term for processed data.

Verification / Alternative check:
Information systems textbooks and computer fundamentals guides commonly present a simple equation: Data plus processing equals information. They explain that data is made up of symbols, numbers and text that by themselves may not convey meaning. Once processed through summarization, classification or analysis, these raw facts become information that can support decisions. This repeated pattern in reference materials confirms that processed data is called information.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Raw data is by definition unprocessed, so it cannot be used to describe processed output. Knowledge goes a step beyond information and represents insight or understanding, which is not what the basic question is asking. Analysis is an operation, not a category of data. The term record refers to a row or unit in a file or database and does not automatically connote that its contents have been transformed into meaningful information. Therefore, these alternatives do not match the simple definition tested here.

Common Pitfalls:
Some learners may be tempted by knowledge because it sounds advanced. To avoid confusion, remember the simple progression: data becomes information after processing, and information may contribute to knowledge when combined with human experience. Exam questions focused on basic definitions almost always expect information as the answer when they refer to processed data.

Final Answer:
Processed data that has been organized and made meaningful is called information.