Probability Sampling Techniques: A Literature Review

This paper reviews the various sampling methods covered under probability sampling techniques. The paper begins with a formal analysis of the need for sampling procedures. A brief comparison between probability sampling and non-probability sampling techniques has also been made to review the potential advantages and disadvantages present in the given sampling methods. The main section of the paper deals with various forms of probability sampling techniques, which are categorized as random sampling method, stratified sampling, systematic sampling method, cluster sampling, and replicated sampling. Various subdivisions of each of these sampling methods have also been discussed. Moreover, the suitability of each of these methods is discussed. The paper concludes with the comparison of probability sampling methods concerning other available sampling procedures. Based on the present review, it is found that all conditions being equal and feasible; the samples obtained by probability sampling methods are better representatives of populations as compared to other sampling methods.