Which term refers to a small proportion of people chosen in a study to be representative of a larger group?

The term that refers to a small proportion of people chosen in a study to be representative of a larger group is "sample." In research, a sample is selected from a population to gather data and draw conclusions about the whole population without needing to survey every individual. This approach is vital because it is often impractical or impossible to study an entire population due to constraints such as time, cost, and accessibility.

Sampling allows researchers to make inferences and generalizations based on the findings from the sample, assuming that the sample adequately represents the population. Proper sampling techniques are essential to ensure that the results are valid and reliable. For effective representation, researchers often use random sampling methods, stratified sampling, or other techniques to minimize bias and ensure diversity within the sample itself.

In contrast, a survey is a method used to collect information from respondents, the population refers to the entire group being studied, and a cohort typically pertains to a group of individuals who share a common characteristic or experience within a defined time period. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for successfully conducting research and interpreting results.