Data formats are essential for defining how information is structured, stored, and processed. They determine the way data is created, read, and manipulated across various applications. Different data formats serve different purposes, and they can be broadly categorized into several types.

For instance, in the context of databases, data types such as numeric, string, date and time, and JSON are commonly used. Each type has specific characteristics and storage requirements, which are crucial for efficient data management ⁴.

In terms of file formats, they can include CSV (Comma Separated Values), which is widely used for its compatibility and human readability, but is limited in handling complex data structures. Other formats like JSON, Avro, and Parquet are designed for more complex data and can support nested structures, making them suitable for big data applications ⁵.

Choosing the right data format depends on factors such as the structure of the data, performance requirements, and the need for human readability.