UGC NET Questions (Paper – 1)

Non-sampling errors are all sources of survey inaccuracy that do not stem from the act of sampling but from the way data are collected, recorded or processed. They include interviewer bias, faulty questionnaire design, respondent misunderstanding and coding or tabulation mistakes. Such errors can be large and may not decrease simply by increasing sample size. Therefore, errors arising from inaccurate responses or defective tools are correctly termed non-sampling errors.

Option A:
Non-sampling errors encompass diverse problems such as ambiguous questions that confuse respondents, poorly trained interviewers and data entry errors. These issues affect the quality of information gathered from each selected unit and can seriously distort findings. Since the stem emphasises inaccurate responses and processing mistakes, this option is appropriate.

Option B:
Random error refers to unpredictable fluctuations that occur by chance and may be part of both sampling and measurement processes; it is not restricted to the specific systematic problems listed.

Option C:
Proportional error is not a standard category in survey methodology and does not describe the cluster of issues like tool defects and processing mistakes.

Option D:
Experimental error is associated with variability in experimental outcomes and does not specifically refer to survey response or instrument problems, so it is not correct here.

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.