Qualitative research is best described as?

Qualitative research is best described as exploratory and subjective in nature because it seeks to understand complex phenomena through in-depth understanding and interpretation rather than through quantitative measures. This type of research typically involves gathering non-numerical data, such as interviews, open-ended survey responses, or observations, allowing researchers to explore the meanings, experiences, and feelings of individuals in various contexts.

The exploratory aspect enables researchers to delve into the nuances of human behavior and social phenomena, providing richer insights that may not be captured through statistical data. Moreover, the subjective nature acknowledges that researchers interpret data through their perspectives, contributing to an understanding that embraces variability and depth rather than just measurable outcomes.

In contrast, the other options focus on quantitative approaches (such as statistical data analysis and numerical outcomes) or imply similarities in structure, which do not align with the fundamental characteristics of qualitative research.