What is a sampling frame?

• A. The complete list from which the sample is drawn
• B. The actual sample units chosen
• C. The study's theoretical model
• D. The data collection instrument

Answer: (A)

The sampling frame is the complete list or source from which you draw your sample. It represents the population in a practical form, such as a voter registry, a university email directory, or a student roster. This frame defines who could be included in the sample and serves as the basis for the sampling method you apply; if some units are missing or if there are duplicates, you can introduce frame error and bias your results. The actual individuals or units you end up studying are the sample, which is drawn from that frame. The study's theoretical model and the data collection instrument are different concepts: the former describes relationships among variables, while the latter is the tool used to gather information from respondents.