What does the process of 'coding and categorizing data' involve in qualitative analysis?

The process of 'coding and categorizing data' in qualitative analysis primarily involves labeling portions of data to identify themes. This step is crucial because it allows researchers to break down complex texts or data sets into manageable segments that can be analyzed for patterns, insights, and key concepts. By assigning codes, researchers can systematically organize their observations and findings, which facilitates deeper analysis and ultimately helps in interpreting the qualitative data meaningfully.

This approach enables the identification of recurring themes or concepts across the dataset, making it easier to draw conclusions and craft narratives that reflect the participants' experiences and perspectives. Hence, option B captures the essence of coding and categorizing, which is foundational in qualitative research methodologies.