Systematic sampling is a straightforward and efficient sampling technique where elements are selected
at regular intervals from an ordered list of the population. To start, a random starting point is chosen
within the first interval, and then every \(k\)-th element is selected, where \(k\) (the sampling interval) is
calculated as the population size divided by the desired sample size. For example, if you want a sample
of 100 from a population of 1,000, you would select every 10th individual after a random start.
Systematic sampling is simple to implement and helps ensure even coverage across a population, making
it particularly useful when dealing with large, ordered populations or lists, like manufacturing processes
or customer lists. One of the advantages of systematic sampling is its ease and speed, as it requires only
a single random start and then follows a clear pattern, reducing the need for complex randomization.
However, this method can introduce bias if there is a hidden pattern in the list that corresponds to the
sampling interval, which could lead to periodicity bias. Despite this, systematic sampling remains popular
in industrial, environmental, and social research settings where simplicity and efficiency are prioritized.
