In the seven-step data processing sequence, which step focuses on organizing data?

• A. Storage
• B. Curation
• C. Capture
• D. Data sharing

Answer: (B)

Organizing data is the role of data curation. Curation involves arranging data in a structured way, adding descriptive metadata, applying standards and quality checks, and maintaining datasets so they can be found, understood, and reused later. It’s about classification, labeling, versioning, and documenting provenance, so each dataset sits in a coherent system with clear relationships to related data.

This is the best choice because organizing data goes beyond merely storing it or collecting it. Curation creates a well-managed data asset that supports easy access, interpretation, and reuse in later steps such as analysis or sharing.

Storage focuses on keeping data safe and retrievable but doesn’t by itself organize or describe the data. Capture is the process of collecting data. Data sharing involves distributing data to others, which depends on prior organization but isn’t the act of organizing itself.