SAMPLING IN STATISTICS
Complete Study Guide
1. BASIC CONCEPTS
Population: The entire group you're interested in studying.
Sample: A subset of the population used to draw conclusions.
Census: Data collection from every member of the population.
Sampling Frame: A list or source from which the sample is drawn.
Sampling Unit: The basic element of the population being studied.
Parameter vs. Statistic:
- Parameter: A numerical summary of the population.
- Statistic: A numerical summary of the sample.
2. REASONS FOR SAMPLING
Saves time and cost
Easier to manage data
Often impossible to study entire populations
Allows for faster decision-making
3. TYPES OF SAMPLING TECHNIQUES
A. Probability Sampling (Every unit has a known chance of selection)
1. Simple Random Sampling (SRS): Every member has an equal chance of being
selected.
2. Systematic Sampling: Select every kth item after a random starting point.
3. Stratified Sampling: Divide population into subgroups (strata) and randomly sample
from each.
4. Cluster Sampling: Divide population into clusters, randomly select some clusters, then
study all or some elements in them.
5. Multistage Sampling: Combine multiple sampling methods in stages.
6. Double Sampling: Use a first sample to guide or refine a second sample.
B. Non-Probability Sampling (Selection is not random)
1. Convenience Sampling: Select individuals easiest to reach.
2. Judgmental (Purposive) Sampling: Based on the researcher's expert judgment.
3. Quota Sampling: Ensure a certain number of subjects from each group, but selection
is not random.
4. Snowball Sampling: Existing subjects recruit future subjects; useful for hard-to-reach
populations.
4. SAMPLING DISTRIBUTION
A distribution of a sample statistic (like the mean) from many samples.
Key concepts:
- Standard Error (SE)
- Central Limit Theorem (CLT)
- Law of Large Numbers
5. SAMPLE SIZE DETERMINATION
Factors affecting sample size:
- Population size
- Desired margin of error
- Confidence level (e.g., 95%)
- Variability in the population
A larger sample increases accuracy.
6. ERRORS IN SAMPLING
A. Sampling Errors (Random): Caused by natural variation between sample and
population. Reduced by increasing sample size.
B. Non-Sampling Errors (Systematic): Errors in data collection, measurement, non-
response, or analysis.
7. BIAS IN SAMPLING
Selection Bias: Non-representative sample.
Non-Response Bias: People who don't respond differ from those who do.
Response Bias: Inaccurate answers due to wording, pressure, or misunderstanding.
8. ADVANTAGES & DISADVANTAGES OF SAMPLING
Advantages:
- Time-saving
- Cost-effective
- Practical for large populations
- Enables quicker analysis
Disadvantages:
- May introduce bias
- Results less accurate than a census
- Risk of poor representation if poorly designed
9. APPLICATIONS OF SAMPLING
Health research and epidemiology
Political polling
Market research
Manufacturing quality control
Social and educational studies
10. ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS IN SAMPLING
Ensure informed consent
Maintain participant confidentiality
Avoid manipulation or bias in selection
Be transparent about methods
✅ SUMMARY
Sampling is essential for studying populations efficiently and effectively.
Choosing the right sampling method and avoiding bias are critical to getting reliable,
generalizable results.
