Which statement about primary data is true?

• A. It is always inexpensive
• B. It is not collected for a specific purpose
• C. It is obtained for a specific purpose and is original research
• D. It involves no risk

Answer: (C)

Primary data are data collected directly for a specific research purpose and are original to the study. Because the researcher designs the collection to answer that particular question, the data are new and unique to this project, rather than drawn from existing sources. This is what makes primary data distinct from secondary data, which come from records, reports, or other studies that were already gathered or published. The statement captures both the targeted purpose and the originality of the data.

The idea that primary data are always inexpensive isn’t correct because collecting it can be costly and time-consuming, especially when it involves large samples, experiments, or complex methods. Saying it isn’t collected for a specific purpose is false because the whole point of primary data is to address a defined research objective. Likewise, implying there are no risks isn’t accurate; data collection can involve ethical considerations, privacy issues, or other risks depending on the method and context.