Unlike the structured coding used in healthcare documentation, unstructured data are more freeform and don’t necessarily follow a specific format. In fact, over 80% of data is unstructured, and found in the notes section of an EMR. Random shorthand notes exist in this space where physicians or nurses jot down valuable patient information. A researcher who relies solely on structured data would have too many holes in the patient’s healthcare story. Notes provide valuable context into a patient’s history, creating a richer and more complete picture of the patient’s current medical status.