**Step 1: Introduction to the Concept** Variance and standard deviation are statistical measures used to describe the spread or dispersion of a set of data points. In the context of assessment scores, they help us understand how much the scores of candidates deviate from the average, and can be used to evaluate the fairness or consistency of the assessment process. --- **Step 2: Correct Answer and Explanation** **Correct Answer: D** > The variance and standard deviation are 3022 and 74.7, respectively. The 74.7 standard deviation suggests scrutiny of the objectivity of the promotion assessment. **Explanation:** Option D not only correctly states the variance (3022) and standard deviation (74.7), but it also provides an appropriate interpretation: a high standard deviation (74.7) suggests that there may be substantial variability in candidate scores, which could indicate inconsistencies or biases in the assessment process, thus warranting closer examination of objectivity. --- **Step 3: Why the Other Options Are Incorrect** - **A:** While it correctly mentions the variance and standard deviation, it wrongly suggests that further investigation is only needed for "disproportionate variations," not directly addressing objectivity. - **B:** This option limits the need for review to "promotion assessment aligning with objectives," missing the point about the spread indicating a need for scrutiny. - **C:** It mentions a "comparative review" but does not tie the high standard deviation directly to the need to scrutinize objectivity, making it less precise than D. **Final Answer:** D --- **One-sentence summary of each step:** - **Step 1:** Introduced the importance of variance and standard deviation in analyzing assessment data. - **Step 2:** Identified and explained the option that best states the values and their implication. - **Step 3:** Explained why other options do not adequately address the implications of the statistical results.