What role does not get assigned to numeric variables with class counts below 20 by the Metadata Advisor?

In SAS Enterprise Miner, the Metadata Advisor plays a crucial role in determining the appropriate role for variables based on their characteristics, such as data type and distribution. When it comes to numeric variables that have class counts below 20, these variables are often deemed to lack sufficient representation to make valid statistical inferences or analyses.

In this case, the role that does not get assigned to numeric variables with class counts below 20 is Ordinal. Ordinal variables are characterized by their ability to not only provide a numerical value but also to convey a meaningful order of those values. However, for a numeric variable to qualify as ordinal, it typically must have a sufficient number of distinct categories that can be logically ranked. Having fewer than 20 unique values can hinder the ability to establish a clear order or ranking among those values.

While numeric variables can certainly take on nominal and interval roles, the lack of a sufficient number of class counts below 20 specifically prevents them from being classified as Ordinal. This is due to the need for a more robust dataset that enables meaningful comparisons and orderings among the values. Therefore, without enough values to substantiate a clear rank order, the Metadata Advisor will not assign the Ordinal role to such variables.