Which of the following best describes secondary research?

Secondary research is effectively characterized as the analysis of existing data. This type of research involves gathering information that has already been collected by others, such as academic studies, articles, government reports, and other sources. The primary purpose of secondary research is to review and synthesize findings that can provide insights relevant to the current investigation or inquiry.

Utilizing existing data allows researchers to save time and resources since they are building upon previously established knowledge rather than starting from scratch. It also enables them to gain a broader understanding of the subject matter by analyzing various perspectives and conclusions drawn by different researchers.

In contrast, the collection of original data refers to primary research, which involves gathering new data through methods such as surveys or experiments. Research based on experimental methods specifically pertains to applying controlled tests to derive new findings, and field data compilation typically involves collecting data directly from natural environments rather than analyzing previously collected resources. These differences underline why the analysis of existing data is the defining feature of secondary research.