UGC NET Questions (Paper – 1)

Cluster sampling is useful when a population is spread over a wide area and a complete list of individuals is difficult to obtain. The researcher first divides the population into natural groups such as schools or villages, randomly selects some clusters, and then studies all or a sampled subset of members within them.

Option A:
This option correctly outlines the two stage nature of cluster sampling, emphasizing both grouping into clusters and random selection of clusters for detailed study.

Option B:
This option describes convenience sampling, a nonprobability technique where individuals are chosen based on accessibility rather than structured clusters and random selection.

Option C:
Selecting only volunteers is an example of volunteer or self-selected sampling, which is nonprobability and does not involve random choice of clusters.

Option D:
Choosing experts intentionally because of their special knowledge is purposive sampling, another nonprobability method distinct from cluster sampling.