Population

Definition

A population is the entire group of individuals or instances about whom we hope to learn. It is the complete set from which data can be collected for statistical analysis.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. A population includes all members of a specified group, while a sample consists of a subset from that population.
2. Parameters are numerical characteristics derived from a population, such as mean or standard deviation.
3. Inferences about populations are made using data collected from samples due to practical constraints in surveying every member of the population.
4. Population size (N) can be finite or infinite depending on the context and scope of study.
5. Bias and error can occur if the sample is not representative of the population.

Review Questions

• What distinguishes a population from a sample in statistical terms?
• Define what parameters are in relation to a population.
• Why is it often impractical to collect data from an entire population?

Related terms

Sample: A subset of individuals chosen from a larger population for data analysis.

Parameter: A numerical characteristic or measure that describes an aspect of a population.

Sampling bias: A distortion in statistical analysis resulting from the method used to select samples.