A simple random sample takes a small, random portion of the entire population to represent the

entire data set, where each member has an equal probability of being chosen. Researchers can
create a simple random sample using methods like lotteries or random draws. A sampling error can
occur with a simple random sample if the sample does not end up accurately reflecting the
population it is supposed to represent.

Stratified random sampling involves dividing the entire population into homogeneous groups called
strata. Stratified random sampling differs from simple random sampling, which involves the random
selection of data from an entire population, so each possible sample is equally likely to occur.

Systematic sampling is a probability sampling method in which a random sample, with a fixed
periodic interval, is selected from a larger population. The fixed periodic interval, called the sampling
interval, is calculated by dividing the population size by the desired sample size. Other advantages of
this methodology include eliminating the phenomenon of clustered selection and a low probability
of contaminating data. Disadvantages include over- or under-representation of particular patterns
and a greater risk of data manipulation.

Cluster sampling, researchers divide a population into smaller groups known as clusters. They then
randomly select among these clusters to form a sample. Cluster sampling is a method of probability
sampling that is often used to study large populations, particularly those that are widely
geographically dispersed. Researchers usually use pre-existing units such as schools or cities as their
clusters.

Two-stage sampling design the population is partitioned into groups, like cluster sampling, but in
this design new samples are taken from each cluster sampled. The clusters are the first stage units to
be sampled, called primary or first sampling units. The second-stage units are the elements of those
clusters, called sub-units, secondary or second sampling units. Two-stage sampling is used when the
sizes of the clusters are large, making it difficult or expensive to observe all the units inside them.
This is, for example, the situation when one wishes to estimate total landing per trip of a fishery with
many landing sites and also with a large number of vessels.