Opinion Polls

Definition

Opinion polls are surveys conducted to measure public opinion on a particular issue or to gauge support for a political candidate. They involve collecting data from a sample of the population and using statistical methods to make inferences about the larger population.

Related terms

Sampling: The process of selecting a representative group of individuals from a larger population for the purpose of conducting an opinion poll or survey.

Margin of error: A measure that indicates how reliable and accurate an opinion poll is by quantifying the amount by which results may vary from the true values.

Exit polls: Surveys conducted outside polling places on Election Day to predict election outcomes and gather information about voter demographics and preferences.