In SPSS MODELER, what does a "node" represent?

In SPSS Modeler, a "node" serves as a fundamental building block in the data processing workflow. Each node represents a specific step or function that processes or transforms data, allowing users to construct a flow of operations systematically. For example, nodes can perform tasks such as data input, data transformation, modeling, or output generation, each contributing to the overall analytical objectives.

By organizing the entire analytical process into distinct nodes, users can visualize and manage the workflow efficiently, making it easier to understand the sequence of operations and the interactions between different steps. This modularity enhances both the clarity and flexibility of the model-building process.

The other options do not accurately describe the role of a node in SPSS Modeler. While a variable in a dataset is an integral part of the data being processed, it is not what the node itself represents. Similarly, a source of external data may be referenced within a node but does not define the node's purpose. Lastly, an end result of processing is typically produced at the output stage of nodes but does not represent the nodes themselves, which are dedicated to specific processing tasks throughout the workflow.