representative sample
Miniature population portrait
A representative sample is a subset of a larger group that accurately reflects the characteristics of the whole.
In statistics and research, conclusions drawn from studying the sample can reasonably be applied to the entire population: The poll used a representative sample of likely voters.
The key is that the sample mirrors the diversity of the larger group—in demographics, opinions, or whatever traits matter for the study.
- random selectionChoosing without systematic bias
- subsetCollection within collection
- randomOccurring without pattern
- populationAll inhabitants combined
- cross-sectionView through interior
survey · data · data set · poll · statistics · statistical analysis · quota · bias · cherry picking · selection · respondents · demographic · focus group · typical · proportion · stratified · margin · margin of error
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