Data analysis is the process of evaluating data using analytical and logical reasoning to examine each component and answer research questions. There are two types of data: qualitative data involving non-numerical information and quantitative data involving numerical information. The steps in data analysis include determining the method, processing the data, analyzing and interpreting findings. Descriptive analysis describes sample characteristics through measures like frequency distributions, measures of central tendency, and measures of variability. Inferential analysis uses statistical tests to test relationships among variables and hypotheses.