Definition Sample survey

In a sample survey, in contrast to a full population survey, only one part of a population is questioned on a given topic. Based on the results of this sample, a projection is made about the rest of the population.In order to ensure that the results are representativeness and because the survey's objective is to analyze the population as a whole, certain selection methods need to be used.

For example, if we ask 10,000 people if they like bananas and then make a projection about the entire population, we have conducted a sample survey.

Please note that the definitions in our statistics encyclopedia are simplified explanations of terms. Our goal is to make the definitions accessible for a broad audience; thus it is possible that some definitions do not adhere entirely to scientific standards.