Sampling method

How it is used

Used in methods sections to explain how the sample was selected, for example randomly, purposively, or by convenience.

Example sentences

1. The paper justified its sampling method by explaining why purposive selection was more suitable than random recruitment.

   Here, sampling method means the stated way participants were chosen, which affects fit between the research aim and sample.

2. During peer review, we were asked to clarify the sampling method because the original draft only described the final sample size.

   In this sentence, the term refers to the selection procedure, not merely the number of participants included.

Common collocations

• describe the sampling method
• appropriate sampling method
• sampling method section

Related terms

• researchCareful, systematic study of a subject in order to discover new facts, test ideas or reach new conclusions.
• methodologyThe overall approach and reasoning behind how a study is done, including the choice of design, methods, data and analysis, and the reasons for those choices.

More terms: Research Design

• research question
• hypothesis
• qualitative
• quantitative
• sample
• participant
• questionnaire
• case study
• carry out
• validity
• reliability
• mixed methods