a categorical variable is a type of variable that can be divided into distinct categories or groups. it represents qualitative data, which describes characteristics or qualities that cannot be measured numerically. categorical variables are used to classify and organize information based on specific attributes or properties.

categorical variables are closely related to qualitative data because they both deal with non-numeric information. qualitative data provides descriptive insights and is typically expressed in words rather than numbers. categorical variables are used to represent and analyze this type of data by grouping it into meaningful categories.

examples of categorical variables include:

• gender (male, female, non-binary)
• color (red, blue, green)
• education level (high school, bachelor's, master's, doctorate)
• marital status (single, married, divorced, widowed)

understanding categorical variables is crucial in various fields, including statistics, data analysis, and research, as they help in organizing and interpreting qualitative information effectively.