In research methodologies, what does "sampling" refer to?

Sampling refers to the process of selecting a subset of individuals from a larger population in order to draw conclusions about that population. The goal of sampling is to choose a representative group that reflects the characteristics of the entire population, which enables researchers to make inferences without needing to study every individual. A well-chosen sample can help ensure that the results of a study are generalizable and valid.

To understand sampling better, it's important to recognize how it contrasts with other terms related to research methodologies. Analyzing collected data pertains to the statistical methods used after data is gathered, while identifying the entire population (which refers to a census) would not involve sampling at all. Dividing a population into smaller subsets describes a process known as stratification, which can be part of sampling but does not define what sampling itself is. Thus, selecting a representative group from a population is foundational to the concept of sampling in research methodologies.