What is a pivot table primarily used for?

A pivot table is primarily used for data summarization and analysis because it allows users to reorganize and summarize large datasets to uncover insights and trends. By transforming raw data into a more digestible format, pivot tables enable users to quickly analyze information through aggregating, averaging, or counting data. This functionality is especially useful for identifying patterns, making comparisons, and generating reports based on specific criteria.

Users can manipulate the layout of the pivot table to focus on various dimensions of the data, such as rows and columns, and can apply filters to hone in on certain segments of the data. Consequently, pivot tables are invaluable in data analytics, enabling informed decision-making based on the summarized insights derived from complex datasets.