Coding assigning values – UGC NET Question

Coding is the procedure by which responses, categories or variables are represented by numbers or symbols to facilitate data entry, storage and analysis. For example, “male” might be coded as 1 and “female” as 2, or different response options on a Likert scale may be assigned numeric values. This transformation allows statistical software to handle the data efficiently. Because the stem describes assigning numerical or symbolic values for computer analysis, it is referring to coding.

Option A:
Classifying typically involves sorting data into categories or classes based on shared characteristics, which may precede or accompany coding. However, classification does not necessarily involve assigning specific numeric codes for statistical processing. Thus, classifying is not the most precise completion for the description given.

Option B:
Coding creates a bridge between raw responses and the data matrix used in analysis. Well-designed coding schemes preserve the meaning of responses while making computations feasible. Since the stem explicitly mentions assigning numerical or symbolic values for analysis, coding is the correct answer.

Option C:
Scaling involves constructing measurement instruments that place respondents on a continuum for a particular construct, such as attitude or anxiety. While scaling may involve coded responses, the term refers more broadly to instrument design rather than the mechanical assignment of values for data entry. Therefore, scaling is not the right choice here.

Option D:
Sampling pertains to selecting participants or units from a population before data collection begins. It is unrelated to the post-collection step of assigning codes to responses, so sampling cannot complete the stem appropriately.