Which would usually require the smallest sample size because of its efficiency?

Which would usually require the smallest sample size because of its efficiency? (a) One stage cluster sampling

(b) Simple random sampling

(c) Two stage cluster sampling

(d) Quota sampling

✅ Correct option: (b) Simple random sampling

Explanation:

Simple random sampling usually requires the smallest sample size to achieve accurate results because every member of the population has an equal chance of selection. This reduces bias and sampling error, making the method statistically efficient. Cluster sampling methods require larger samples due to increased homogeneity within clusters, while quota sampling lacks statistical efficiency because it is nonrandom. Thus, simple random sampling is the most efficient in terms of sample size.

10 Related PPSC Facts:

Equal selection probability Low sampling bias High statistical efficiency Smaller sample size needed Requires population list Basis of inferential statistics Used in probability sampling Generalizable results Time-consuming Gold standard of sampling