Data coding and classification – UGC NET Question

Statements A, B, C and E correctly outline the nature and importance of coding and classification. Coding converts raw responses into analysable symbols, schemes should cover all possibilities without overlap, open-ended responses often need inductively developed categories and careful coding minimises error. Statement D is false because altering answers to achieve symmetry violates data integrity and leads to misleading results. Therefore, the combination including A, B, C and E but excluding D is correct.

Option A:
Option A includes A, B and C but omits E, thereby failing to state explicitly that precise coding contributes to error reduction and accurate analysis. Without E, the rationale for investing effort in careful coding is not fully conveyed.

Option B:
Option B contains B, C and E but leaves out A, so it does not mention the fundamental step of assigning symbols or numbers to responses. This omission makes the description of coding incomplete, even though the other points are true.

Option C:
Option C is correct because it brings together all four true statements, emphasising both the procedures and the benefits of systematic coding and classification. It rightly excludes D, which suggests unethical alteration of responses.

Option D:
Option D includes A, C and E but omits B, ignoring the requirement that categories be exhaustive and mutually exclusive. Without that requirement, coding categories could overlap or leave gaps, so this option is incomplete.