Which of the following best defines content analysis?

Content analysis is best defined as a technique for analyzing communication content systematically. This method is commonly employed in sociology and other social sciences to interpret textual, visual, or audio data. It involves the systematic coding and categorization of content in various forms, such as articles, speeches, or media productions, to identify patterns, themes, or biases within the communication.

By systematically analyzing content, researchers can draw meaningful conclusions about societal trends, cultural values, and communication practices. This approach enables scholars to quantify and interpret qualitative aspects, understanding how information is constructed and disseminated within a specific context.

The other choices focus on different research methodologies that do not align with the systematic study of communication content. For instance, analyzing numerical data pertains to quantitative methods, while sampling strategies and triangulating data involve different aspects of research design and methodology.