Exploratory techniques are methods used to investigate and analyze data without predefined hypotheses. These techniques help researchers uncover patterns, trends, and relationships within datasets. Common exploratory techniques include data visualization, clustering, and statistical analysis, which allow for a deeper understanding of the data's structure and characteristics. These methods are particularly useful in the early stages of research, as they provide insights that can guide further analysis. By employing exploratory techniques, researchers can generate new questions and hypotheses, making them essential for fields such as data science, market research, and social sciences.