UGC NET Questions (Paper – 1)

Statements A, B, C and E correctly distinguish cluster and stratified sampling. Cluster sampling first selects natural groups, which is economical when populations are spread out, while stratified sampling divides the population into homogeneous strata and can preserve the population structure through proportionate allocation. Statement D is false because stratified sampling usually selects units randomly within each stratum, not by convenience. Hence, the combination including A, B, C and E and excluding D is correct.

Option A:
Option A is correct as it recognises the economic advantage of cluster sampling and the representativeness aim of stratified sampling, while rejecting the idea that selection within strata is merely convenient.

Option B:
Option B is incomplete because it omits E, failing to mention how proportionate stratified sampling mirrors the population composition. Without E, the representational strength of the method is underplayed.

Option C:
Option C is wrong because it includes D, the incorrect claim that stratified sampling relies on convenience within strata, and omits A, the key point about sampling natural clusters. This mix of omission and error mischaracterises both techniques.

Option D:
Option D is incorrect as it again accepts D and excludes B and C, thereby ignoring correct statements about homogeneous strata and the economy of cluster sampling. This leads to a distorted understanding of these probability sampling methods.