Correct Response: C. The first step in maximizing quality of data collected is to disallow any data entries that are outside of the expected values. In this case, any non-numerical entries should not be allowed. This can be achieved by using code in the back end of the online form. This sort of code that checks for allowable patterns in data is called a regular expression. A is incorrect because a reliable trendline cannot be fit until after all of the data has been entered. B is incorrect because such filtering can only be done after non-numerical entries have been removed. D is incorrect because it would be more efficient to use software algorithms to catch easily identified mistakes before conducting a manual review of the values.
