In statistics, what does the term 'data points' refer to?

The term 'data points' in statistics specifically refers to individual observations within a dataset. Each data point represents a unique measurement or value that contributes to the overall analysis. This can include anything from the result of a survey answer, the measurement of a variable in an experiment, or any specific value that can be analyzed further.

For example, if a survey collected responses on people's ages, each age reported would be considered a data point. Analyzing these data points allows statisticians to draw conclusions, identify trends, and make decisions based on the collected data. Understanding that data points are individual pieces of information helps in grasping how these values contribute to larger statistical concepts, such as averages or distributions, ultimately leading to more robust data analysis.