AP Statistics

Advanced Placement Statistics covering data analysis, probability, and statistical inference.

Basic Concepts

Collecting Data: Sampling and Surveys

How We Gather Information

To answer questions about a group, we often can't ask everyone. That's where sampling comes in! We select a smaller group (sample) to represent the larger group (population).

Types of Sampling

  • Simple Random Sample: Every member has an equal chance.
  • Stratified Sample: Population divided into groups, and samples taken from each.
  • Cluster Sample: Population divided into clusters, some clusters are chosen, and all members in those are surveyed.

Avoiding Bias

Surveys can be biased if the sample isn't representative or the questions are misleading. Randomness helps keep results fair!

Real-World Use

Pollsters use sampling to predict election results, and companies survey customers to improve products.

Examples

  • A news agency selects 1,000 random voters to predict election results.

  • A teacher surveys two classes to find out which lunch menu is most popular.

In a Nutshell

Sampling and surveys help us understand big groups by studying smaller, manageable ones.