Sample

Definition

A sample is a subset of a population selected for measurement, observation, or questioning to provide statistical information about the population. It is used when it is impractical or impossible to collect data from the entire population.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. A sample must be representative of the population to ensure valid conclusions.
2. Larger samples generally provide more reliable estimates of the population parameters.
3. There are different sampling methods such as random sampling, stratified sampling, and cluster sampling.
4. The sample mean ($\bar{x}$) is an estimate of the population mean ($\mu$).
5. Sampling error is the difference between a sample statistic and its corresponding population parameter.

Review Questions

• What is a sample in statistics?
• Why is it important for a sample to be representative of the population?
• Name two common sampling methods.

Related terms

Population:

The entire group that is the subject of a statistical analysis.

Sampling Error: The difference between a sample statistic and its corresponding population parameter.

Random Sampling:

A method where each member of the population has an equal chance of being selected in the sample.