Which component typically falls under the category of hard data?

Hard data refers to quantifiable information that is objective and can be measured or analyzed statistically. Test scores exemplify this type of data, as they provide numerical evaluations of performance on standardized assessments. These scores can be subjected to statistical analysis, comparisons, and calculations, making them useful for drawing objective conclusions and making data-driven decisions.

In contrast, personal observations, customer testimonials, and group discussions represent softer forms of data. These types of information may contain subjective elements and personal biases, making them less reliable for quantitative analysis. They often rely on individual perceptions and experiences, which cannot usually be uniformly measured or numerically evaluated in the same way that test scores can. This distinction solidifies why test scores are categorized as hard data.