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When constructing a data file, categorical variables can be entered using either category labels (e.g., “M” and “F” for male and female) or numerical codes (e.g., “$$0$$” and “$$1$$”). While category labels are often easier to read and interpret, certain statistical analyses require numerical data. Advanced statistical programs often allow researchers to enter numbers while attaching descriptive category labels to them for clarity.

Entering Categorical Variables in Data Files

When building a data file for a psychology study, a researcher can enter categorical variables (such as participant gender) using word labels like "M" and "F." What is the primary reason a researcher might instead use numerical codes (e.g., 0 and 1) to represent the categories?

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