Sampling Methods

Start with samples and censuses

Begin with the Sampling mind map that defines a sample as a subgroup of a population. It contrasts a sample with a census, which includes the entire population, and mentions budget and time limits as constraints. Use that comparison to establish what a sampling decision is about before moving on to the methods.

Another Sampling map describes gathering opinions from people chosen from a specific group. Read it alongside the first map and compare how each explains the relationship between a sample and the wider group.

Follow the sampling process

The Sampling methods map sets out a sequence: define the population of interest, decide whether to sample or conduct a census, select a sampling frame, choose a method, determine sample size, and implement the procedure. Follow the branches in that order, pausing to explain each decision in your own words.

Then look at the Sampling map that lists simple random, quota, systematic, convenience, and stratified sampling. Use its branches to identify the methods and note the points the map makes about them.

Connect the maps

Marketing Research: Data Collection brings sampling together with population, census, and sample. Sampling and market research data also describes selecting respondents from a larger population. Compare these maps with the process map to see how their terms fit together.

There are no quizzes listed on this page, so you can turn map headings into questions for yourself. For example, cover a branch and recall what it says about a sample or a census. Then check your answer against the map.

Place the topic in the unit

Sampling Methods is a section of the Market Research unit in Marketing, advertising and sales. The Market Research/Sampling map links sampling with primary and secondary research, offering a way to connect the section to its unit. Open a map and trace a connection that is useful to your study.