Why is a representative sample desirable?
A) Such samples are random.
B) Hypotheses can only be tested on representative samples.
C) Only representative samples yield meaningful results.
D) The more representative a sample is, the more generalizable the data.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A representative sample is desirable because the more representative a sample is, the more generalizable the data. This means that the findings can be applied to the larger population with more confidence. While random sampling is important for creating a representative sample, it is not the only factor. Additionally, hypotheses can be tested on non-representative samples, but the findings may not be generalizable to the larger population. Therefore, the most important factor in obtaining meaningful results is having a sample that is representative of the population of interest.

Why Is a Representative Sample Desirable