What defines a representative sample in research?

A representative sample is one that accurately reflects the characteristics of the larger population from which it is drawn. This means that the sample possesses the same demographics, characteristics, and diversity as the overall group being studied, allowing researchers to make generalizations about the population based on their findings from the sample. When the sample mirrors the population well, it enhances the validity of the research results and ensures that the conclusions drawn will be applicable to the broader population.

While random selection can help create a representative sample, it does not automatically guarantee that the sample is representative if significant factors of the population are not reflected. Similarly, including a variety of demographics is important, but it must be in proportion to their representation in the larger population. Focusing on a specific subgroup, on the other hand, usually results in a sample that does not reflect the diversity or characteristics of the whole population, which could lead to biased results and limit the research's applicability.