What Is A Random (Or Probability Sampling) Sample?

What is a random (or probability sampling) sample A sample in statistics is a subset that is representative of the statistical population. A random sample is a statistical sample that is picked using the random sampling method. In random sampling each member of the population has an equal chance (probability) of being selected in the sample. Therefore a random sample is a simple unbiased representative of the statistical population. A random sample can be picked using several methods. The most popular being the lottery method where members of the population are assigned numbers and subsequent selection is chosen at random. Random numbers for sample selection can also be computer generated (Hamburg, 1979). Reference Hamburg, M. (1979). Basic statistics A modern approach . Houghton Mifflin Harcourt P. What are the pros and cons of random sampling There are several advantages and disadvantages of random sampling. The advantages are Random samples reduce the margin of error by eliminating selection bias Allows each member an equal probability of selection It is simple and cheap to perform The disadvantages of random sampling are Does not address the problem of personal bias when selecting the population from which to pick a sample. Random sampling requires