Sampling is a statistical technique used to select a subset of individuals or items from a larger population to draw conclusions about that population. It allows researchers to gather insights without needing to study every member, which can be impractical due to time, cost, or logistical constraints. There are two main types of sampling: probability sampling, where each member has a known chance of being selected, and non-probability sampling, where selection is based on subjective judgment. Effective sampling is crucial for ensuring that the results are representative and can lead to valid inferences about the entire population.