Question

Which of the following has the smallest sampling error ?

• A. Large samples obtained through random sampling
• B. Large samples obtained through convenience sampling
• C. Small samples obtained through random sampling
• D. Large snowball sample

Answer 1

Answer:

A. Large samples obtained through random sampling

• Sampling error occurs when the characteristics of a sample differ from the characteristics of the total population.

• Two main factors control the size of this error : Sample Size and Sampling Method.

• Large Samples: As your sample size increases, it becomes more representative of the entire population. According to the law of large numbers, larger samples reduce the standard error, making the statistical estimates much more precise.

• Random Sampling: Probability (random) sampling ensures that every individual in the population has an equal chance of being selected. This eliminates selection bias, allowing the sample to accurately mirror the population.