Which term refers to a way of organizing and storing data efficiently for access and modification?

The term that refers to a way of organizing and storing data efficiently for access and modification is data structure. Data structures are critical in computer science and programming because they define how data is arranged in memory, enabling efficient retrieval, manipulation, and update operations. Various data structures, including arrays, linked lists, trees, and graphs, are designed to suit specific application needs based on factors such as speed and ease of use.

In contrast, an algorithm is a step-by-step procedure or formula for solving a problem, while a program typically refers to a complete set of instructions written to perform a specific task using data structures and algorithms. A database, on the other hand, is a collection of organized information that can be easily accessed, managed, and updated, often relying on specific data structures to efficiently handle the storage and retrieval of that information. Although closely related, data structures focus more on the underlying organization of the data rather than its overall management or interface, which is a key aspect of databases.