The distinction between structured and unstructured data is usually the first question you want to ask yourself about the entire dataset. The answer to this question can mean the difference between needing three days or three weeks of time to perform a proper analysis.
The basic breakdown is as follows (this is a rehashed definition of organized and unorganized data in the first chapter):
Here are a few examples that could help you differentiate between the two:
Most data that exists in text form, including server logs and Facebook posts, is unstructured
Scientific observations, as recorded by careful scientists, are kept in a very neat and organized (structured) format
A genetic...