Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) Practice Exam 2025 - Free Quality Engineer Practice Questions and Study Guide

Variables and attributes are two fundamental types of data used in quality control, and the distinction between them is crucial for effective measurement and analysis.

Variables are measurable characteristics that can take on a wide range of numerical values. Examples include dimensions, weight, temperature, and time, which can be measured on a continuous scale. This means that variables provide information that allows for precise analysis and statistical examination, making it easier to understand variations in processes or products.

Attributes, on the other hand, refer to characteristics that are counted and typically describe a quality that is judged to be present or absent. Attributes can be in the form of discrete counts, such as the number of defective items in a batch or whether an item passes inspection. The data from attributes are often binary (like pass/fail or defective/non-defective), making them less complex than variable data.

Therefore, the correct response highlights that variables are measurable characteristics, while attributes are countable, which accurately captures the primary distinction between the two types of data. This understanding enables quality engineers to choose appropriate statistical methods for analysis and control purposes based on the type of data they are handling.