What is Data Sampling
Data sampling is a fundamental statistical method used in various fields to extract meaningful
insights from large datasets. By analyzing a subset of data, researchers can draw conclusions about
the entire population with accuracy and efficiency.
Data Sampling is a statistical method that is used to analyze and observe a subset of data from a
larger piece of dataset and configure meaningful information, all the required info from the subset
that helps in gaining information, or drawing conclusion for the larger dataset, or it's parent dataset.
Sampling in data science helps in finding more better and accurate results and works best when the
data size is big.
Sampling helps in identifying the entire pattern on which the subset of the dataset is based upon
and on the basis of that smaller dataset, entire sample size is presumed to hold the same properties.
It is a quicker and more effective method to draw conclusions.
What is Data Sampling important?
Data sampling is important for a couple of key reasons:
1. Cost and Time Efficiency: Sampling allows researchers to collect and analyze a subset of data
rather than the entire population. This reduces the time and resources required for data collection
and analysis, making it more cost-effective, especially when dealing with large datasets.
2. Feasibility: In many cases, it's impractical or impossible to analyze the entire population due to
constraints such as time, budget, or accessibility. Sampling makes it feasible to study a
representative portion of the population while still yielding reliable results.
3. Risk Reduction: Sampling helps mitigate the risk of errors or biases that may occur when
analyzing the entire population. By selecting a random or systematic sample, researchers can
minimize the impact of outliers or anomalies that could skew the results.
4. Accuracy: In some cases, examining the entire population might not even be possible. For
instance, testing every single item in a large batch of manufactured goods would be impractical.
Data sampling allows researchers to get a good understanding of the whole population by
examining a well-chosen subset.
Types of Data Sampling Techniques
There are mainly two types of Data Sampling techniques which are further divided into 4 sub-
categories each. They are as follows:
Probability Data Sampling Technique
Probability Data Sampling technique involves selecting data points from a dataset in such a way that
every data point has an equal chance of being chosen. Probability sampling techniques ensure that
the sample is representative of the population from which it is drawn, making it possible to
generalize the findings from the sample to the entire population with a known level of confidence.
1. Simple Random Sampling: In Simple random sampling, every dataset has an equal chance or
probability of being selected. For eg. Selection of head or tail. Both of the outcomes of the event
have equal probabilities of getting selected.
2. Systematic Sampling: In Systematic sampling, a regular interval is chosen each after which the
dataset continues for sampling. It is more easier and regular than the previous method of sampling
and reduces inefficiency while improving the speed. For eg. In a series of 10 numbers, we have a
sampling after every 2nd number. Here we use the process of Systematic sampling.
3. Stratified Sampling: In Stratified sampling, we follow the strategy of divide & conquer. We opt
for the strategy of dividing into groups on the basis of similar properties and then perform
sampling. This ensures better accuracy. For eg. In a workplace data, the total number of employees
is divided among men and women.
4. Cluster Sampling: Cluster sampling is more or less like stratified sampling. However in cluster
sampling we choose random data and form it in groups, whereas in stratified we use strata, or an
orderly division takes place in the latter. For eg. Picking up users of different networks from a total
combination of users.
Non-Probability Data Sampling
Non-probability data sampling means that the selection happens on a non-random basis, and it
depends on the individual as to which data does it want to pick. There is no random selection and
every selection is made by a thought and an idea behind it.
1. Convenience Sampling: As the name suggests, the data checker selects the data based on his/her
convenience. It may choose the data sets that would require lesser calculations, and save time
while bringing results at par with probability data sampling technique. For eg. Dataset involving
recruitment of people in IT Industry, where the convenience would be to choose the data which is
the latest one, and the one which encompasses youngsters more.
2. Voluntary Response Sampling: As the name suggests, this sampling method depends on the
voluntary response of the audience for the data. For eg. If a survey is being conducted on types of
Blood groups found in majority at a particular place, and the people who are willing to take part in
this survey, and then if the data sampling is conducted, it will be referred to as the voluntary
response sampling.
3. Purposive Sampling: The Sampling method that involves a special purpose falls under purposive
sampling. For eg. If we need to tackle the need of education, we may conduct a survey in the rural
areas and then create a dataset based on people's responses. Such type of sampling is called
Purposive Sampling.
4. Snowball Sampling: Snowball sampling technique takes place via contacts. For eg. If we wish to
conduct a survey on the people living in slum areas, and one person contacts us to the other and so
on, it is called a process of snowball sampling.
Data Sampling Process
The process of data sampling involves the following steps:
Find a Target Dataset: Identify the dataset that you want to analyze or draw conclusions about.
This dataset represents the larger population from which a sample will be drawn.
Select a Sample Size: Determine the size of the sample you will collect from the target dataset.
The sample size is the subset of the larger dataset on which the sampling process will be
performed.
Decide the Sampling Technique: Choose a suitable sampling technique from options such as
Simple Random Sampling, Systematic Sampling, Cluster Sampling, Snowball Sampling, or
Stratified Sampling. The choice of technique depends on factors such as the nature of the dataset
and the research objectives.
Perform Sampling: Apply the selected sampling technique to collect data from the target dataset.
Ensure that the sampling process is carried out systematically and according to the chosen method.
Draw Inferences for the Entire Dataset: Analyze the properties and characteristics of the
sampled data subset. Use statistical methods and analysis techniques to draw inferences and
insights that are representative of the entire dataset.
Extend Properties to the Entire Dataset: Extend the findings and conclusions derived from the
sample to the entire target dataset. This involves extrapolating the insights gained from the sample
to make broader statements or predictions about the larger population.
