This study guide organizes your notes into a clear, exam-ready format.
I have structured the
definitions, added the missing formulas where applicable, and included visual cues to help
you distinguish between the different methods.
1. Fundamentals: Population vs. Sample
● Population ($N$): The entire group you want to draw conclusions about.
● Sample ($n$): The specific group (subset) you collect data from.
● Sampling: The process of selecting a subset to make statistical inferences about
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the whole group.
2. Probability Sampling (Random Selection)
Used for strong statistical inferences. Every member has a known, non-zero chance of
selection.
A. Simple Random Sampling
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● Definition: Every member has an equal chance of being selected.
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● Tool: Random number generators or picking IDs from a hat.
B. Systematic Sampling
● Definition: Selecting every $k^{th}$ member from a list.
● The Formula:
To find the sampling interval ($k$):
$$k = \frac{N}{n}$$
Where 4$N$ = Population size and 5$n$ = Sample size.6
7 8 9
● Process: Pick a random starting point between $1$ and $k$, then add $k$
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repeatedly.
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C. Stratified Sampling
● Definition: Population is divided into strata (subgroups) based on characteristics
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(e.g., gender, age). A random sample is then taken from each.
● Proportional Formula:
To keep the sample representative of the population:
$$n_h = \left( \frac{N_h}{N} \right) \times n$$
Where 12$n_h$ is the sample size for stratum 13$h$, 14$N_h$ is the population size
for stratum 15$h$.16
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D. Cluster Sampling
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● Definition: Population is divided into clusters (usually geographic). You
randomly select entire clusters and survey everyone inside them.
● Key Difference: In Stratified, you sample some people from all groups. In Cluster,
you sample all people from some groups.
3. Non-Probability Sampling (Non-Random)
Used for exploratory research, pilot studies, or when a complete list of the population is
unavailable.
Method Definition Best Use Case
Convenience Selecting those easiest to Quick pilot testing or classroom
reach. demos.
Judgmental Researcher uses expertise to Small groups with very specific
pick "useful" units. traits.
Snowball Participants recruit other Hard-to-reach groups (e.g.,
participants. homeless, elite athletes).
Quota Ensuring specific subgroups Market research to ensure
are filled to a set limit. gender/age balance.
4. Summary Comparison Table
Feature Probability Sampling Non-Probability Sampling
Selection Random Non-random / Subjective
Inference Can generalize to population Cannot safely generalize
Bias Low (Minimizes researcher bias) High (Depends on
researcher)
Cost/Time Usually more Faster and cheaper
expensive/time-consuming
Key Formulas to Remember
1. Sampling Interval: $k = N / n$
2. Sample Proportion: $p = x / n$ (used to estimate population proportions)
3. Margin of Error (Basics): Often calculated as $1/\sqrt{n}$ for a $95\%$ confidence
level in simple random samples.
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