* Singular: "Data is important for analysis." (Data is treated as a singular, uncountable noun)
* Plural: "The data are being analyzed." (Data is treated as a plural noun)
Traditionally, "data" was considered a plural noun, but it's increasingly being used as a singular noun in modern English.
The best approach is to:
* Check the context: If you are referring to a single piece of information or a collection as a whole, use "data is."
* Use the plural if referring to multiple data points: If you are referring to multiple items of information, use "data are."
However, both usages are becoming more acceptable, so ultimately, the choice depends on your audience and the specific context.