What is the impact of sample size on research outcomes?

What is the impact of sample size on research outcomes?

The sample size significantly affects the reliability and validity of research findings. A larger sample size generally leads to more accurate estimates and greater statistical power.

Can you explain why a larger sample size is better?

A larger sample size reduces the margin of error and increases the confidence level of the results, making it easier to detect true effects.

Are there any downsides to having a very large sample size?

Yes, while larger samples can improve accuracy, they can also lead to increased costs, longer data collection times, and potential overfitting in some analyses.

How do researchers determine the appropriate sample size?

Researchers often use power analysis, which considers the expected effect size, significance level, and desired power to determine the optimal sample size.