Survey research overview – UGC NET Question

Statement C is the only wrong statement because survey data are not always free from response bias; they can be affected by social desirability, recall errors and misunderstanding. Statements A, B, D and E accurately describe survey research’s ability to reach large samples, use multiple modes, provide both descriptive and analytical information and study attitudes and self-reports. Therefore, C alone contradicts accepted knowledge about survey limitations.

Option A:
Option A is correct because it isolates C as the single misleading statement and affirms the truth of A, B, D and E. It recognises that response bias is a central concern in interpreting survey data, even when surveys are well designed.

Option B:
Option B is incorrect because it adds A to the list of wrong statements, even though A accurately states that surveys can reach relatively large numbers of respondents. Treating A as wrong underestimates one of the main advantages of survey methods.

Option C:
Option C is also wrong because it includes D as a wrong statement, despite D correctly noting that analytical surveys can explore associations and patterns beyond simple description. Misclassifying D fails to acknowledge analytic potential.

Option D:
Option D is incorrect because it groups B, C and E as wrong and therefore misrepresents both the available modes and the substantive focus of surveys. B and E are in fact correct descriptions of how surveys are conducted and what they can study.