Which sampling approach aims to reflect the population by matching demographics rather than relying on randomization?

• A. Random sample
• B. Straw poll
• C. Representative sample
• D. Push poll

Answer: (C)

Matching the population’s demographics to reflect its diversity is what a representative sample does. Rather than relying solely on random selection, this approach uses stratification or quotas to ensure the proportions of groups—such as age, gender, race, income, and education—mirror those in the whole population. By doing this, the survey results are more likely to generalize to everyone because the sample captures the population’s different segments. A random sample, while it aims to minimize bias through chance, may not perfectly reflect every demographic group. A straw poll is informal and tends to reflect momentum rather than the broader population, and a push poll is designed to influence opinions rather than measure them. So the concept that reflects the population by demographic matching is representative sample.