How is a data structure defined?

A data structure is defined as a systematic way of organizing and storing data for efficient access and modification. This means that data structures provide a framework that allows for the organization of data in a way that makes it easy to retrieve, manipulate, and store. Effective data structures enable algorithms to operate more efficiently, optimizing the performance of software applications.

For example, arrays, linked lists, stacks, queues, trees, and hash tables are all different types of data structures that serve specific needs depending on the operations that need to be performed on the data. They allow programmers to choose the best way to arrange and manage data, which is crucial for efficient software performance.

In contrast, while a formula used in mathematical calculations pertains to operations on numbers and does not involve the organization of data itself, a method of data compression deals with reducing the size of data for storage or transmission efficiency, rather than organizing it. Additionally, a type of programming language feature may influence how data is handled but does not specifically define data structures. Therefore, the correct choice highlights the essential role of data structures in organizing and storing data effectively.