What defines a semi-structured database?

A semi-structured database is characterized by its ability to incorporate elements of both structured and unstructured data. This means that while there may be some predefined formats or organization in how data is stored, it is not as rigidly defined as in a fully structured database, such as a relational database.

In a semi-structured database, data can be organized in a way that allows for flexibility, often utilizing tags or markers that identify data elements and their relationships. This versatility allows for the storage of complex data types and varying structures within the same dataset, making it suitable for applications where data may not fit a predefined model.

The incorrect responses can be understood in the following way: a complete lack of organization does not align with the concept of semi-structured databases, as they do have some level of organization. Following a strict schema pertains to fully structured databases, which is not the case for semi-structured data. Lastly, the requirement for all entries to adhere to specific formatting rules is more characteristic of structured databases rather than semi-structured ones, which allow for variation in formatting.