In what context would you use a census instead of a sample?

In what context would you use a census instead of a sample?

• A. When the population size is small
• B. When you need to minimize costs
• C. When results can vary widely
• D. When you are studying a large population

Answer: (A)

Using a census is appropriate in the context of a small population size because a census involves collecting data from every member of the population. When the number of individuals or items is limited, conducting a census ensures that you gather comprehensive information without the complications that come from sampling. This means you capture the complete variability and characteristics of the entire population, which can provide more accurate and detailed insights. In scenarios where costs need to be minimized, a census could be more expensive than sampling, especially in larger populations. When results can vary widely and precise estimates are required, sampling might be a better choice since it allows for the use of statistical techniques to generalize findings. Finally, when studying large populations, it's often impractical to conduct a census due to resource constraints, making sampling a more feasible option. Therefore, when dealing with a small population, a census is the most effective way to obtain complete data.

Using a census is appropriate in the context of a small population size because a census involves collecting data from every member of the population. When the number of individuals or items is limited, conducting a census ensures that you gather comprehensive information without the complications that come from sampling. This means you capture the complete variability and characteristics of the entire population, which can provide more accurate and detailed insights.

In scenarios where costs need to be minimized, a census could be more expensive than sampling, especially in larger populations. When results can vary widely and precise estimates are required, sampling might be a better choice since it allows for the use of statistical techniques to generalize findings. Finally, when studying large populations, it's often impractical to conduct a census due to resource constraints, making sampling a more feasible option. Therefore, when dealing with a small population, a census is the most effective way to obtain complete data.