Google Data Analytics Professional Certification Practice Test

How does metadata enhance data usability?

1. By encrypting sensitive information

2. By providing context and identification for data

3. By reducing data sharing capabilities

4. By simplifying data transactions

The correct answer is: By providing context and identification for data

Metadata plays a crucial role in enhancing data usability by providing context and identification for data. It serves as a descriptive tool that offers additional information about the data itself, which can include aspects such as the data's source, format, creation date, and the relationships it has with other data sets. This context is vital because it enables users to understand the meaning and relevance of the data, which in turn helps them to make more informed decisions when analyzing or using the data. For instance, if a dataset includes sales figures, the associated metadata might describe the period the data covers, the geographic regions it pertains to, and the methods used to collect it. This background information not only helps users comprehend the data better but also facilitates its integration with other data sources for more comprehensive analysis. In contrast, options like encrypting sensitive information or reducing data sharing capabilities do not enhance usability; rather, they may serve to protect data security or restrict accessibility, which could limit how easily data can be utilized. Additionally, while simplifying data transactions might improve efficiency, it does not directly address the usability aspect that metadata fulfills by enriching the data with essential context.