Data formats are standardized ways to organize and store information so that it can be easily read and processed by computers. Common data formats include CSV (Comma-Separated Values) for tabular data, JSON (JavaScript Object Notation) for structured data, and XML (eXtensible Markup Language) for hierarchical data. Each format has its own rules and structure, making it suitable for different types of applications. Choosing the right data format is essential for efficient data exchange and storage. For example, CSV is often used for spreadsheets, while JSON is popular in web applications for transmitting data between a server and a client. Understanding these formats helps in selecting the best one for specific needs.