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What distinguishes a census from a sample in market analysis?

Correct Answer

A) A census counts every member of the population

Why this is correct: In a census, data is collected from every single member of the defined population (e.g., every sale in a subdivision during a period). This eliminates sampling error because no subset is taken. Why the other choices are wrong: A sample, not a census, is drawn (often randomly) from the population. There is no minimum record count that defines a census. A census is defined by completeness, not by the age of transactions. Exam tip: Census = all. Sample = some. Even with a census, other errors (like data entry mistakes) can still occur.

Answer Options
A
A census counts every member of the population
B
A census is drawn at random from the population
C
A census contains at least one hundred records
D
A census excludes any transaction over a year old

Why This Is the Correct Answer

Why this is correct: In a census, data is collected from every single member of the defined population (e.g., every sale in a subdivision during a period). This eliminates sampling error because no subset is taken. Why the other choices are wrong: A sample, not a census, is drawn (often randomly) from the population. There is no minimum record count that defines a census. A census is defined by completeness, not by the age of transactions. Exam tip: Census = all. Sample = some. Even with a census, other errors (like data entry mistakes) can still occur.

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