"Data" is a plural noun. It only has a plural form. In everyday English, however, this word is frequently treated as an uncountable noun.

"Data" is a plural noun. In everyday English, however, this word is frequently treated as an uncountable noun, like "information", and therefore followed by a singular verb.

The data are collected through surveys. (Plural noun)

The data is commonly used to analyze and predict consumer preferences (Treated as an uncountable noun)

Both versions of this word are quite common and widely accepted in standard English.

The data is/are stored in files and organized in folders.

In formal contexts or academic writing, the plural form is preferred. In this case, "data" should be followed by a plural verb since this term is the plural of the Latin word "datum".

The data are collected only for the stated purposes.

When using a plural verb, use a plural pronoun to replace it.

The data are readily available. They can be used to predict customer behavior.