Selecting a sample is one of the steps in the research process. There are eight steps in the research process: Formulation of Research Problem Preparing Research Design Developing Data Collection Instrument. Selecting Samples. Writing a Research Proposal Collecting Data Processing and Analyzing Data Writing a Research Report Sampling It is required when the population under study is too large. A sample is defined as a representative subset or cross-section of the population in miniature. There are two types of sampling techniques - Probability sampling and Non-probability sampling Probability sampling: It is based on a random selection of units from a population. In other words, the sampling process is not based on the discretion of the researcher but is carried out in such a way that the probability of every unit in the population of being included in the same. For example, in the case of a lottery, every individual has an equal chance of being selected. Probability or random sampling is mostly correct, still, some error, technically known as ‘Margin of Error’ cannot be avoided. It can be calculated statistically and accounted for in the results. NET aspirants can refer to terms, such as ‘level of significance’ for a better idea. Simple random sample, stratified random sample, and Cluster sample are types of probability sampling. Non Probability sampling: ​​It is a non-structured sample and items are included in the study due to some convenience of the researcher, etc. This sampling takes less time and is handy. As all members of the population do not get an equal chance of being selected, non-probability sampling may be lopsided, loaded with biases, and has a higher margin of error. Convenience sampling, Judgement or purposive sampling, Quota sampling, Accidental sampling, and Snowball sampling are some types of Non-Probability sampling. Survey research The researcher collects data with the help of standardized questionnaires or interviews which is administered on a sample of respondents from a population. Survey research is undertaken to study and describe the ground realities or current state-of-the-art of a situation, group of persons, or institutions. Action research: According to Kurt Lewin, the founder of the term Action Research, it is an ongoing strategy; the cycle is repeated to form a spiral; reformulated plan, revised action, more fact-finding, reanalysis. Hence, most feminist researchers follow this tool as there is value in building equality of relationship between the researcher and those researched. Action Research also means learning by doing. It usually emerges out of situational needs and a solution to a problem is also designed with respect to the situation. The researcher intends to discover new and alternative ways to achieve the objectives, be it teaching or management sector. It is mostly in social situations, such as in educational institutions. Experimental research It is mainly used in science subjects such as physics, chemistry, medicine, biology, etc. The experiment requires two variables, one independent variable, and the other dependent variable. It is important that in experimental research the independent variable is manipulated and the effect of manipulation is observed on the dependent variable. Correlational research It provides some indication as to how two or more things are related to one another or, in effect what they share or have in common or how well a specific outcome might be predicted by one or more pieces of information. Correlational research uses a numerical index called the correlation coefficient as a measure of the strength of this relationship. For example, if you are interested to find out the relationship between the number of hours spent in studying and their achievement, then you would be doing correlational research because you are interested in the relationship between these two variables. Phenomenology based researchers It is a form of qualitative research in which the researcher attempts to understand how one or more individuals experience a phenomenon. For example, interviewing the wives of 10 prisoners of war and asking them to describe their experiences. Note: In the case of Phenomenology based researchers and Action Research, non- probability sampling procedures are mostly used.