A researcher who is uncertain about the number of factors and which variables belong to each factor might pursue ____.
A)statistical analysis
B)regression analysis
C)exploratory factor analysis
D)composite analysis

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) is a useful technique when the researcher is unsure about the number of underlying factors and which variables should be included in each factor. EFA examines the interrelationships among variables to identify the underlying structure of the data. It can help to reduce the number of variables to a more manageable level and to identify clusters of variables that measure the same underlying construct. Statistical analysis and regression analysis require the variables to be predetermined and do not help in identifying the underlying factor structure. Composite analysis is not a recognized statistical technique.

A Researcher Who Is Uncertain About the Number of Factors