Stratified Sampling Rationale – UGC NET Question

Stratified sampling divides the population into homogeneous subgroups or strata based on relevant characteristics such as gender, region or school type. Random samples are then drawn from each stratum. This approach increases precision and ensures that even small but important subgroups are properly represented, improving the quality of estimates.

Option A:
Option A wrongly states that stratification reduces coverage of subgroups, whereas its purpose is exactly to enhance subgroup coverage and representation.

Option B:
Option B is correct because it captures the main rationale: representing key strata in the sample in proportion or with specified emphasis. This helps in making subgroup comparisons and improves overall sample accuracy.

Option C:
Option C describes convenience sampling, which is nonprobability in nature and not related to stratification principles.

Option D:
Option D suggests avoiding random procedures, which contradicts the probabilistic nature of stratified sampling, where random selection operates within each stratum.