Importance Of Representative Samples In Research Studies: Methods And Techniques

representative sample

a sample that reflects the characteristics of the population from which it is drawn

A representative sample is a smaller group of individuals or things chosen from a larger population that possesses all the essential characteristics and qualities of the larger population. The goal of selecting a representative sample is to accurately reflect the population’s diversity and represent it as impartially as possible. In other words, the sample must be selected in a way that ensures that every member of the population has an equal chance of being selected.

Representative samples are crucial in research studies to ensure that the results obtained are reliable and valid. If the sample is not representative, the results obtained will not be accurate, and the conclusions drawn from them will not apply to the larger population. Therefore, it is essential to put in place a well-designed sampling plan that can identify potential biases in selecting the sample, to minimize sampling errors.

There are several methods used to select a representative sample, including simple random sampling, stratified sampling, cluster sampling, and systematic sampling. The choice of the sampling method will depend on the research design and the population being studied.

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