What does the term category refer to?

The term "category" refers to a class of people or things that share specific characteristics. This concept is fundamental in organizing and classifying items in various contexts, such as in science, literature, or everyday life. By placing items into categories, it becomes easier to identify similarities and differences, making it more efficient to understand and navigate complex information.

For example, in a library, books are categorized by genre (e.g., fiction, non-fiction, mystery), allowing readers to find materials that suit their interests quickly. Similarly, in a scientific context, living organisms are categorized into groups based on shared traits, aiding in the study of biodiversity and the relationships between different species.

Overall, categorization is a key cognitive process that helps individuals simplify and structure the vast array of information encountered in daily life.