Sampling error best fits which of the following descriptions?

• A. A mistake made during data collection that leads to incorrect results
• B. The process of selecting every member of a population for a study
• C. The difference between a sample statistic $$ and the corresponding population parameter $$ due to random chance
• D. The intentional manipulation of data to achieve a desired outcome

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of sampling error: it refers to the natural difference that occurs between a sample statistic (like a sample mean) and the true population parameter (like the population mean) because the sample is only a subset of the entire population.
2. Recognize that sampling error is not a mistake or error caused by data collection methods or intentional manipulation; rather, it arises purely due to random chance when selecting a sample.
3. Recall that the process of selecting every member of a population is called a census, not sampling error.
4. Summarize that sampling error is best described as the difference between a sample statistic and the corresponding population parameter due to random chance.
5. Therefore, when identifying the correct description of sampling error, focus on the idea of natural variability between sample and population values, not errors or intentional actions.