Biostatistics: multistage sampling: practice question

A PSM question in the style of the NEET PG paper. Answer it first, then read why the right option is right and why each of the others is wrong.

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PSM · Biostatistics: multistage sampling

Sample item

A national rural survey first selects districts at random, then blocks within selected districts, then villages within selected blocks, and finally households within villages. Which sampling method is this?

Original practice item, not a recalled exam question. Nothing here is recorded.

The answer and the reasoning

B. Multistage random sampling

Multistage sampling selects the sample in successive stages, each from the units chosen at the previous stage, and suits large and dispersed populations. Stratified sampling divides the population into groups and samples from each. Systematic sampling picks every kth unit, and quota sampling is non-random.

Option by option

  • A. Quota sampling

    Quota sampling uses non-random selection until quotas are filled.

  • B. Multistage random sampling (correct)

    Correct. Successive random selection of districts, blocks, villages and households is multistage.

  • C. Stratified random sampling

    Stratified sampling samples from every stratum rather than from selected units at successive levels.

  • D. Systematic sampling

    Systematic sampling uses a fixed interval from a list.

Source note: Original NextPrep sample item — pending expert review. This item is original practice material awaiting independent expert review, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.

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Questions about this PSM question

What is the answer to this PSM question?

The best answer is B, Multistage random sampling. Multistage sampling selects the sample in successive stages, each from the units chosen at the previous stage, and suits large and dispersed populations.

Why is "Quota sampling" not the answer?

Quota sampling uses non-random selection until quotas are filled.

Why is "Stratified random sampling" not the answer?

Stratified sampling samples from every stratum rather than from selected units at successive levels.

Why is "Systematic sampling" not the answer?

Systematic sampling uses a fixed interval from a list.

What concept does this question test?

It tests Biostatistics: multistage sampling in PSM. Stratified sampling divides the population into groups and samples from each. Systematic sampling picks every kth unit, and quota sampling is non-random.

How hard is this question?

We tag it as an application question: it asks you to use a fact on a patient or a finding. The tag is our own editorial judgement, not an official difficulty rating, so read the reason for every option, not only the answer.

How should I study Biostatistics: multistage sampling?

Practise biostatistics with small calculations until sensitivity, predictive values and risk measures are automatic. Then use the flashcards and the other PSM questions on this site to test what stuck.

Is this a real NEET PG question?

No. It is an original practice item (editorial status: sample, version 1). NextPrep does not publish recalled or leaked questions, and independent faculty review of this item has not been completed yet, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.