What type of data is ranked and expresses the relative evaluation of characteristics according to criteria?

• A. Nominal data
• B. Interval data
• C. Ordinal data
• D. Ratio data

Answer: (C)

Ranked data that expresses relative position is ordinal data. In this type, you can determine which item ranks higher or lower according to criteria, but you cannot assume that the difference between consecutive ranks is equal. This is what sets it apart from nominal data (categories with no order) and from interval or ratio data (which assume equal intervals, with ratio data also having a true zero). Examples include Likert scales (satisfied to very satisfied) or class rankings. The key idea is that order exists and conveys relative evaluation, even though the exact distance between ranks isn’t known.