Each member of the population has a known and often equal
chance of being selected. This reduces bias and allows the
results to be generalized.
1. Simple Random Sampling
A method where every individual in the population has an equal and independent
chance of being chosen. Selection is completely random, often done through
lottery, drawing lots, or random number generators.
"Random Draw of Books"
> Each book on the shelf has an equal chance of being picked, like drawing lots.
2. Systematic Sampling
Involves selecting members from a larger population according to a fixed, periodic
interval (e.g., every 5th or 10th). The starting point is chosen at random, and then
every nth item is selected consistently.
"Every 3rd Book Picked from the Shelf"
> Selection follows a fixed interval pattern (ex: every 3rd book), not entirely
random but evenly spaced.
3. Stratified Sampling
The population is divided into subgroups or
"strata" based on shared characteristics (like age, gender, or category), and then
random samples are taken from each group to ensure representation.
"Books Grouped by Genre, Picked Randomly per Group"
> Books are first grouped which is called strata (Fiction, Nonfiction and Comic), and
then samples are randomly chosen from each group.
4. Cluster Sampling
The population is divided into naturally occurring groups called "clusters" (like
households, classrooms, or sections), and entire clusters are randomly selected.
All members of the chosen clusters are included in the sample.
"Randomly Chosen Shelf, All Books Taken"
> Instead of individual books, you randomly pick a whole cluster (shelf), and take
everything from it.
5. Multistage Sampling
A more complex sampling method done in multiple stages, combining different
probability techniques. For example, you might randomly select clusters first,
then within those, do simple or systematic sampling.
"Grouped the shelves then draw a Lots"
> Combines cluster (selecting shelf which is A, B, and C) and simple random (drawing
lots)
Not everyone in the population has a chance to be selected.
Samples are chosen based on convenience, judgment, or
availability, and results are not always generalizable.
1. Convenience Sampling
Involves selecting samples that are easiest and quickest to reach. It does
not involve randomization, which can lead to bias and limited
representation.
"Books Closest to the Reader"
> The person picks the books that are easiest to reach - no system, just the
easiest way
2. Purposive Sampling
The researcher deliberately selects specific individuals or items based on a
particular purpose or characteristic that fits the objective of the study.
"Books Chosen Based on Reader's Preference"
> The reader selects books based on what he/she needs (History Books)
3. Quota Sampling
The researcher divides the population into categories and sets a specific
number (quota) of people to be included from each group, but selection
within those groups is non-random.
"2 Books per Genre Picked Until Quota Met"
> The person must pick a set number (ex: 2 books) from each genre without
randomization, just to fill the quota.
4. Opportunistic Sampling
The researcher takes advantage of unexpected opportunities to collect
data, even if the selection is unplanned or based on sudden availability.
"Books Picked Because They Were on Display or Found Today"
> The books are chosen simply because they happened to be there - an
opportunity, not a plan.
5. Snowball Sampling
Used when subjects are hard to find. The initial participant refers others
who meet the criteria, creating a "chain" or snowball effect of referrals.
"Book Suggests Another Book, and So On"
> The first book "leads" to another one (like a referral), and the process
continues - like friends recommending more friends.