Sampling is a fundamental statistical technique used to select a subset of individuals or units from a larger population for analysis. This process allows researchers to draw conclusions about the entire population without the need to study every single member, which can be impractical due to time, cost, or logistical constraints. There are two main types of sampling techniques: probability sampling, where each member of the population has a known chance of being selected, and non-probability sampling, where selection is based on subjective judgment. Understanding sampling is crucial for obtaining accurate and representative data in research studies.