Coding is a process of categorizing, classifying, and sorting data and is the first step in making analytical interpretations of data. There are different approaches to coding that are dependent upon whether the researcher is using qualitative or quantitative data. Coding can occur deductively or inductively, and is dependent upon the researcher's methodological approach. There are various types of and stages to coding; some of the types are open coding, focused coding, axial coding, and theoretical coding.