What analytical technique is used to measure numerical data such as sales figures?

The analytical technique that measures numerical data, such as sales figures, is quantitative data analysis. This method focuses on quantifying data and involves statistical computations to interpret numerical information, making it ideal for understanding trends, variations, and patterns in numerical datasets.

In the context of sales figures, quantitative data analysis can help in evaluating sales performance over specific periods, forecasting future sales, and making data-driven decisions. It leverages metrics such as averages, totals, and growth rates, which provide clear insights that can be easily communicated and analyzed.

Other options address different aspects of data that do not pertain directly to numerical measurement. Qualitative analysis focuses on non-numerical data, exploring themes and subjective experiences. Sentiment analysis is primarily concerned with understanding the emotional tone behind a series of words, often used in customer feedback and social media to gauge public opinion. Contextual analysis looks at the context surrounding data points, including relationships and circumstances, rather than numerical measurements themselves.