Which type of research is used to explain data by identifying the reasons behind certain outcomes?

The type of research that is used to explain data by identifying the reasons behind certain outcomes is diagnostic research. This type of research seeks to understand the underlying causes and motivations behind particular statistical results or patterns in data. It involves analyzing the relationships between different variables and determining why certain trends or behaviors occur, providing insights that can inform decision-making and strategy development.

In diagnostic research, tools such as regression analysis, correlation assessments, and other statistical methods may be employed to delve deeper into the data, revealing causal relationships and enabling researchers to derive actionable conclusions. This contrasts with exploratory research, which is generally about generating new ideas and understanding a problem without pre-established hypotheses; conclusive research, which aims to confirm hypotheses and provide definitive answers; and descriptive research, which focuses on providing a snapshot of data at a given time but does not explain why the data is as it is.