Data and informationA definition of information

Information = Data that has been processed by a computer so that it makes sense. Gives Data meaning.

For example, take these data items from the previous page:

• 42
• rabbits
• 16:00
• 76
• apples
• 09743245530
• £40
• seaside

When used to form part of a sentence they gain meaning:

• there are 42 apples in that box and each one of them has been nibbled by rabbits
• the fare to the seaside is £40 and the journey takes 76 minutes by rail
• my telephone number is 09743245530, call me at 16:00.

This is information - data put into context.