What does a sampling plan outline?

A sampling plan outlines the specific sampling methods to be used in a research study. This includes details such as the population from which the sample will be drawn, the sample size, and how individuals or items will be selected for inclusion in the study. By clearly defining the sampling methods, the plan ensures that the sample can adequately represent the population, allowing for accurate and valid findings.

While understanding the goals and objectives of the research, ethical considerations, and final analysis techniques are also important components of research design, they are not the primary focus of the sampling plan. The sampling plan specifically deals with how to select participants or data points to gather information for the study, making it essential for ensuring the research results are reliable and generalizable.