Population

Definition

A population is the entire group that you want to draw conclusions about in a study. It includes all members or items of interest.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In statistics, a population can be finite or infinite depending on the scope of the study.
2. Population parameters are numerical characteristics (like mean or standard deviation) that summarize data for an entire population.
3. Sampling involves selecting a subset from the population to make it manageable for analysis.
4. The quality of statistical inference depends on how well the sample represents the population.
5. Census is a survey conducted on every member of the population.

Review Questions

• What is a population in statistical studies?
• How does a census differ from sampling?
• Why is it important for a sample to represent the population accurately?

Related terms

Sample:

A subset of individuals or items selected from a larger population for analysis.

Parameter:

A numerical characteristic that summarizes data for an entire population, such as mean or standard deviation.

Statistic:

A numerical characteristic that summarizes data for a sample, such as sample mean or sample proportion.