Which type of quantitative data is typically obtained as a result of measuring a variable rather than counting?

• A. Ordinal data
• B. Discrete data
• C. Categorical data
• D. Continuous data

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the difference between types of quantitative data: discrete and continuous. Discrete data result from counting and take on distinct, separate values (like number of students).
2. Recognize that continuous data come from measuring variables and can take any value within a range, including fractions or decimals (like height or weight).
3. Recall that ordinal data are categorical with a meaningful order but not necessarily numerical differences, and categorical data are qualitative, not quantitative.
4. Identify that the question asks for data obtained by measuring rather than counting, which points to continuous data.
5. Conclude that continuous data are the type of quantitative data typically obtained through measurement, distinguishing them from discrete data obtained by counting.