When to use this
Use this when the latent structure is uncertain and EFA is theoretically appropriate.
Why it matters
EFA can reveal plausible structure, but the researcher must judge interpretability and measurement meaning.
Step-by-step instructions
1. Select eligible indicators.
2. Review sample size and factorability evidence.
3. Choose the supported extraction and rotation settings.
4. Run EFA.
5. Inspect loadings, communalities, parallel analysis, and cross-loadings.
6. Save a defensible solution and document interpretation.
Expected outputs
Factorability diagnostics, suggested dimensionality evidence, loadings, communalities, and provenance.
How to interpret the results
Evaluate the pattern as a whole rather than applying one loading cutoff mechanically. Theory and item wording remain essential.
Common mistakes
Do not use PCA as if it were common-factor EFA. Do not rotate or retain factors solely to reach a preferred result.
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