Which of the following statements is true about a $\mathrm{population}$ in a statistical survey?

• A. A $\mathrm{population}$ is always smaller than a $\mathrm{sample}$.
• B. A $\mathrm{population}$ includes all individuals or items of interest in a study.
• C. A $\mathrm{population}$ must always be $\mathrm{infinite}$.
• D. A $\mathrm{population}$ only refers to a small subset of the group being studied.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the definition of a population in statistics: it refers to the entire set of individuals or items that are the focus of a study or survey.
2. Recognize that a sample is a subset of the population, selected to represent the population in analysis.
3. Evaluate the statement 'A population is always smaller than a sample' — since a sample is part of the population, the population cannot be smaller than the sample.
4. Consider the statement 'A population must always be infinite' — populations can be finite or infinite depending on the context, so this is not always true.
5. Conclude that the true statement is 'A population includes all individuals or items of interest in a study,' because this accurately describes the population in statistical terms.