What is the primary purpose of a histogram?

The primary purpose of a histogram is to visualize the distribution of a continuous variable. A histogram is a graphical representation that organizes a group of data points into specified ranges, known as bins, along the x-axis while the frequency of data points within each bin is represented on the y-axis. This allows researchers and statisticians to see patterns, trends, and the overall shape of the distribution at a glance, making it easier to identify characteristics such as skewness, modality (number of peaks), and the presence of outliers.

By utilizing this method of visualization, one can effectively assess the central tendency, variability, and any potential normality in the data distribution. This information is crucial for further statistical analysis and interpretation. While other options may touch on related aspects of data handling or presentation, they do not capture the core function of a histogram as accurately as the visualization of a continuous variable's distribution does.