Population concept research universe – UGC NET Question

The population, sometimes called the universe, consists of all the elements or units that meet the criteria for inclusion in a particular study. It is the larger group about which the researcher wishes to draw conclusions. Samples are drawn from this population so that findings can be generalised back to it. Therefore, in research terminology, universe is correctly used as a synonym for population.

Option A:
A sample is a subset of the population selected for actual observation or measurement. While it is used to infer characteristics of the population, it is smaller and not equivalent to the universe itself. Thus, sample cannot be the synonym for universe requested in the stem.

Option B:
A parameter is a numerical value that describes a characteristic of a population, such as the population mean or proportion. It summarises information about the universe but is not itself the universe. Therefore, parameter is not the best completion.

Option C:
A statistic is a numerical value computed from sample data, used to estimate the corresponding population parameter. It relates to the sample, not directly to the universe, and so it cannot serve as a synonym for the term mentioned in the question.

Option D:
Population denotes the entire set of individuals, objects or events of interest in a study, which matches the concept of universe as used by many researchers. This conceptual equivalence confirms that population is the correct answer.