Sampling Methods

We know that statistical research helps in drawing several conclusions based on the requirement of the experts. This uses
the data collected for a specific purpose. We can collect the data using various sampling methods in statistics. However,
the type of sampling method is chosen based on the objective of the statistical research. The statistical research is of two
forms:
In the first form, each domain is studied, and the result can be obtained by computing the sum of all units.
In the second form, only a unit in the field of the survey is taken. It represents the domain. The result of these
samples extends to the domain. This type of study is known as the sample survey.
In this article, let us discuss the different sampling methods in research such as probability sampling and non-probability
sampling methods and various methods involved in those two approaches in detail.

Table of Contents:

Definition
Types
Probability Sampling Methods
Simple random sampling
Systematic sampling
Stratified sampling
Clustered sampling
Non-probability Sampling Methods
Convenience sampling
Consecutive sampling
Quota sampling
Purposive or Judgmental sampling
Snowball sampling
Probability vs Non-probability Sampling
FAQs

What are the sampling methods or Sampling Techniques?

In Statistics, the sampling method or sampling technique is the process of studying the population by gathering
information and analyzing that data. It is the basis of the data where the sample space is enormous. 
There are several different sampling techniques available, and they can be subdivided into two groups. All these methods
of sampling may involve specifically targeting hard or approach to reach groups.

Random Sampling
Sampling Error Formula
Population and Sample
Sampling error

Types of Sampling Method

In Statistics, there are different sampling techniques available to get relevant results from the population. The two different
types of sampling methods are::
Probability Sampling
Non-probability Sampling
Also, read: Sample statistic

What is Probability Sampling?

The probability sampling method utilizes some form of random selection. In this method, all the eligible individuals have a
chance of selecting the sample from the whole sample space. This method is more time consuming and expensive than
the non-probability sampling method. The benefit of using probability sampling is that it guarantees the sample that should
be the representative of the population.

Probability Sampling Types

Probability Sampling methods are further classified into different types, such as simple random sampling, systematic
sampling, stratified sampling, and clustered sampling. Let us discuss the different types of probability sampling
methods along with illustrative examples here in detail.

Simple Random Sampling

In simple random sampling technique, every item in the population has an equal and likely chance of being selected in the
sample. Since the item selection entirely depends on the chance, this method is known as “Method of chance Selection”.
As the sample size is large, and the item is chosen randomly, it is known as “Representative Sampling”.
Example:
Suppose we want to select a simple random sample of 200 students from a school. Here, we can assign a number to
every student in the school database from 1 to 500 and use a random number generator to select a sample of 200
numbers.

Systematic Sampling
In the systematic sampling method, the items are selected from the target population by selecting the random selection
point and selecting the other methods after a fixed sample interval. It is calculated by dividing the total population size by
the desired population size.
Example:
Suppose the names of 300 students of a school are sorted in the reverse alphabetical order. To select a sample in a
systematic sampling method, we have to choose some 15 students by randomly selecting a starting number, say 5.  From
number 5 onwards, will select every 15th person from the sorted list. Finally, we can end up with a sample of some
students.

Stratified Sampling
In a stratified sampling method, the total population is divided into smaller groups to complete the sampling process. The
small group is formed based on a few characteristics in the population. After separating the population into a smaller
group, the statisticians randomly select the sample.
For example,  there are three bags (A, B and C), each with different balls. Bag A has 50 balls, bag B has 100 balls, and
bag C has 200 balls. We have to choose a sample of balls from each bag proportionally. Suppose 5 balls from bag A, 10
balls from bag B and 20 balls from bag C.
Clustered Sampling
In the clustered sampling method, the cluster or group of people are formed from the population set. The group has similar
significatory characteristics. Also, they have an equal chance of being a part of the sample. This method uses simple
random sampling for the cluster of population.
Example:
An educational institution has ten branches across the country with almost the number of students. If we want to collect
some data regarding facilities and other things, we can’t travel to every unit to collect the required data. Hence, we can use
random sampling to select three or four branches as clusters.
All these four methods can be understood in a better manner with the help of the figure given below. The figure contains
various examples of how samples will be taken from the population using different techniques.

What is Non-Probability Sampling?

The non-probability sampling method is a technique in which the researcher selects the sample based on subjective
judgment rather than the random selection. In this method, not all the members of the population have a chance to
participate in the study.

Non-Probability Sampling Types

Non-probability Sampling methods are further classified into different types, such as convenience sampling, consecutive
sampling, quota sampling, judgmental sampling, snowball sampling. Here, let us discuss all these types of non-probability
sampling in detail.
Convenience Sampling
In a convenience sampling method, the samples are selected from the population directly because they are conveniently
available for the researcher. The samples are easy to select, and the researcher did not choose the sample that outlines
the entire population.
Example:
In researching customer support services in a particular region, we ask your few customers to complete a survey on the
products after the purchase. This is a convenient way to collect data. Still, as we only surveyed customers taking the same
product. At the same time, the sample is not representative of all the customers in that area.

Consecutive Sampling
Consecutive sampling is similar to convenience sampling with a slight variation. The researcher picks a single person or a
group of people for sampling. Then the researcher researches for a period of time to analyze the result and move to
another group if needed.

Quota Sampling
In the quota sampling method, the researcher forms a sample that involves the individuals to represent the population
based on specific traits or qualities. The researcher chooses the sample subsets that bring the useful collection of data
that generalizes the entire population.
Learn more about quota sampling here.

Purposive or Judgmental Sampling

In purposive sampling, the samples are selected only based on the researcher’s knowledge. As their knowledge is
instrumental in creating the samples, there are the chances of obtaining highly accurate answers with a minimum marginal
error. It is also known as judgmental sampling or authoritative sampling.

Snowball Sampling
Snowball sampling is also known as a chain-referral sampling technique. In this method, the samples have traits that are
difficult to find. So, each identified member of a population is asked to find the other sampling units. Those sampling units
also belong to the same targeted population.

Probability sampling vs Non-probability Sampling Methods

The below table shows a few differences between probability sampling methods and non-probability sampling methods.

Probability Sampling Methods Non-probability Sampling Methods

Probability Sampling is a sampling technique in which Non-probability sampling method is a technique in

samples taken from a larger population are chosen which the researcher chooses samples based on
based on probability theory. subjective judgment, preferably random selection.

These are also known as Random sampling methods. These are also called non-random sampling methods.

These are used for research which is conclusive. These are used for research which is exploratory.

These involve a long time to get the data. These are easy ways to collect the data quickly.

There is an underlying hypothesis in probability The hypothesis is derived later by conducting the
sampling before the study starts. Also, the objective of research study in the case of non-probability
this method is to validate the defined hypothesis. sampling.