What aspect does the "study population" refer to?

The "study population" refers to the individuals that can be accessed for data collection. This term is pivotal in research as it encompasses those subjects who are available and eligible for inclusion in a study. Rather than referring to the entire population of interest, which may be broader and not directly accessible, the study population is a more practical concept that guides researchers on whom they can realistically gather data from. This is essential for determining the scope and applicability of the findings.

Additionally, understanding the study population helps researchers in designing their studies effectively, ensuring that they choose appropriate methods for sampling and data analysis, focusing on a group that accurately reflects the wider population they aim to make inferences about. This direct connection to data collection emphasizes the importance of the study population in the overall research process.