When verifying data, which should you cite or document?

• A. Metadata and data collection methods
• B. Only final numbers
• C. No citations needed
• D. Rely on memory without sources

Answer: (B)

Verifying data relies on an audit trail that shows exactly how a result was produced. You should cite or document metadata and data collection methods so others can trace the data’s origins, understand how it was gathered, and reproduce the analysis if needed. Metadata covers where the data came from, when and by whom it was collected, the instruments or software used, calibration status, and any processing steps or transformations applied to the data. Recording this context alongside the final numbers provides accountability and supports validation, accuracy, and transparency. Reporting only final numbers leaves the origin and the steps that led to them unverified, and relying on memory without sources introduces risk and undermines trust in the data.