1. What do you mean by research?

One expects scientific research to satisfy the certain criteria, what are those criteria?

Ans. Research and its Criteria

Research refers to the systematic investigation and study of a particular topic or issue to generate new knowledge,
insights, or understanding. It involves the collection, analysis, and interpretation of data to answer research questions or
test hypotheses.
Scientific research, in particular, follows certain criteria to ensure its validity, reliability, and credibility. These criteria
include:
1. Objectivity: Research should be conducted in an unbiased and impartial manner, free from personal opinions or beliefs.
Researchers should strive to minimize their influence on the research process and outcomes.
2. Systematic Approach: Research should follow a structured and organized approach, with clearly defined research
objectives, methods, and procedures. This ensures that the research is replicable and can be validated by others.
3. Empirical Evidence: Research should be based on empirical evidence, which is obtained through direct observation or
experimentation. This involves collecting data from reliable sources, using appropriate research instruments, and
analyzing the data using valid statistical or qualitative techniques.
4. Validity: Research should measure what it intends to measure and accurately represent the phenomenon under
investigation. Validity can be enhanced through careful study design, appropriate sampling techniques, and the use of
reliable and valid measurement tools.
5. Reliability: Research should produce consistent and stable results that can be replicated by other researchers. Reliability
can be ensured through the use of standardized research protocols, rigorous data collection procedures, and appropriate
statistical analyses.
6. Transparency: Research should be transparent and open to scrutiny. This includes providing detailed information about
the research methods, data sources, and analytical techniques used. Researchers should also disclose any potential
conflicts of interest or biases that may influence the research findings.
7. Ethical Considerations: Research should adhere to ethical principles and guidelines, ensuring the protection of human
subjects, the confidentiality of data, and the responsible use of resources. Researchers should obtain informed consent
from participants, maintain privacy and confidentiality, and avoid any harm or exploitation.
By adhering to these criteria, scientific research aims to produce reliable, valid, and trustworthy knowledge that
contributes to the advancement of a particular field of study.

2. Research process consists of series of actions or steps necessary to effectively carry out research." Elaborate the
statement.

Ans. The research process is a systematic and organized approach to conducting research. It involves a series of
actions or steps that are necessary to effectively carry out research. These steps help researchers to plan, execute, and
analyze their research in a structured and logical manner.
Here is an elaboration of the statement:
1. Identifying the research problem: The first step in the research process is to identify a research problem or question.
This involves selecting a topic of interest and formulating a clear and concise research question or objective.
2. Reviewing the literature: Once the research problem is identified, the next step is to review the existing literature on the
topic. This involves conducting a thorough search of relevant academic articles, books, and other sources to gain a
comprehensive understanding of the current knowledge and theories related to the research problem.
3. Formulating a research design: After reviewing the literature, researchers need to determine the most appropriate
research design for their study. This includes deciding on the research approach (qualitative, quantitative, or mixed
methods), selecting the research methods and tools, and designing the data collection procedures.
4. Collecting data: In this step, researchers collect the necessary data to answer their research question. This can involve
various methods such as surveys, interviews, observations, experiments, or analyzing existing data. Researchers need to
ensure that the data collection process is ethical, reliable, and valid.
5. Analyzing and interpreting data: Once the data is collected, it needs to be analyzed and interpreted. This involves
organizing and summarizing the data, applying appropriate statistical or qualitative analysis techniques, and drawing
meaningful conclusions from the findings.
6. Drawing conclusions and making recommendations: Based on the analysis of the data, researchers draw conclusions
about their research question or objective. They also make recommendations for future research or practical applications
based on their findings.
7. Communicating the research findings: The final step in the research process is to communicate the research findings
to the relevant audience. This can be done through academic papers, presentations, reports, or other forms of
dissemination. It is important to effectively communicate the research findings in a clear and concise manner.
Overall, the research process is a systematic and iterative process that requires careful planning, execution, and analysis.
Following these steps helps researchers to ensure the validity, reliability, and ethicality of their research, and contributes
to the advancement of knowledge in their field.

3. Suppose a certain hotel martagement is interested in determining the percentage of the hotel's guests who stay for
more than 3 days. The reservation manager wants to be 95 per cent confident that the percentage has been estimated
to be within 3% of the true value. What as the most conservative sample size needed for this problem?

Ans. To determine the most conservative sample size needed for this problem, we can use the formula for sample size
calculation in estimating proportions. The formula is:
n = (Z^2 * p * (1-p)) / E^2
Where:
 n is the sample size
 Z is the Z-score corresponding to the desired confidence level (95% confidence level corresponds to a Z-score of
approximately 1.96)
 p is the estimated proportion (0.5 is the most conservative estimate as it maximizes the sample size)
 E is the desired margin of error (3% in this case, which is 0.03)
Substituting the values into the formula:
n = (1.96^2 * 0.5 * (1-0.5)) / 0.03^2
Simplifying the equation:
n = (3.8416 * 0.25) / 0.0009
n = 9.604 / 0.0009
n ≈ 10671.11
Therefore, the most conservative sample size needed for this problem is approximately 10672.

4. Why probability sampling is generally preferred in comparison to non probability sampling?

Ans. Probability Sampling vs Non-Probability Sampling

Probability sampling and non-probability sampling are two different approaches used in research to select a sample from
a population. Probability sampling is generally preferred over non-probability sampling for several reasons:
1. Representativeness: Probability sampling ensures that each member of the population has an equal chance of being
selected for the sample. This increases the likelihood that the sample will be representative of the population, allowing for
more accurate generalizations and inferences.
2. Generalizability: Probability sampling allows researchers to generalize their findings from the sample to the larger
population. This is because the sample is selected in a way that reflects the characteristics of the population, reducing the
potential for bias.
3. Statistical Inference: Probability sampling provides a solid foundation for statistical inference. It allows researchers to
estimate population parameters and calculate measures of precision, such as confidence intervals and margins of error.
4. Reduced Bias: Probability sampling methods minimize selection bias, as they are based on random selection. This
reduces the likelihood of systematic errors and increases the validity of the research findings.
5. Comparability: Probability sampling methods enable researchers to compare their findings with other studies that have
used similar sampling techniques. This enhances the ability to build upon existing knowledge and contribute to the
scientific community.
On the other hand, non-probability sampling methods, such as convenience sampling or purposive sampling, have their
own advantages and are often used in situations where probability sampling is not feasible or appropriate. However, they
are generally considered less rigorous and less reliable for making generalizations about a population.
 In summary, probability sampling is generally preferred over non-probability sampling because it provides a more
representative and generalizable sample, allows for statistical inference, reduces bias, and enhances comparability with
other studies.

5. The following are the number of departmental stores in 10 cities: 35,27, 24, 32, 42, 30, 34, 40, 29 and 38. If we want to
select a sample of 15 stores using cities as clusters and selecting within clusters proportional to size, how many stores
from each city should be chosen? (Use a starting point of 4).

Ans. To select a sample of 15 stores using cities as clusters and selecting within clusters proportional to size, we can use
the Neyman allocation method.
The Neyman allocation formula is: Number of stores to be chosen from a city = (Number of stores in the city / Total
number of stores) * Total number of stores to be chosen
Given the number of departmental stores in 10 cities: 35, 27, 24, 32, 42, 30, 34, 40, 29, and 38, and a total of 15 stores to
be chosen, we can calculate the number of stores to be chosen from each city using the Neyman allocation formula.
Let's calculate the number of stores to be chosen from each city:
City 1: (35 / 353) * 15 = 1.5 (rounded to the nearest whole number) = 2 City 2: (27 / 353) * 15 = 1.15 (rounded to the
nearest whole number) = 1 City 3: (24 / 353) * 15 = 1.02 (rounded to the nearest whole number) = 1 City 4: (32 / 353) * 15
= 1.36 (rounded to the nearest whole number) = 1 City 5: (42 / 353) * 15 = 1.79 (rounded to the nearest whole number) =
2 City 6: (30 / 353) * 15 = 1.28 (rounded to the nearest whole number) = 1 City 7: (34 / 353) * 15 = 1.45 (rounded to the
nearest whole number) = 1 City 8: (40 / 353) * 15 = 1.69 (rounded to the nearest whole number) = 2 City 9: (29 / 353) * 15
= 1.24 (rounded to the nearest whole number) = 1 City 10: (38 / 353) * 15 = 1.62 (rounded to the nearest whole number) =
2
Therefore, the number of stores to be chosen from each city should be as follows:
City 1: 2 stores City 2: 1 store City 3: 1 store City 4: 1 store City 5: 2 stores City 6: 1 store City 7: 1 store City 8: 2 stores
City 9: 1 store City 10: 2 stores

6. A certain population is divided into five strata so that NI-2000, N2- 2000, N3 1800, N41700, and NS2500, Respective
standard deviations are 16, 20, 44, 48, 60. How should a sample of size n-226 be allocated to five strata if we adopt
proportionate sampling design.

Ans. To allocate a sample of size n=226 to five strata using proportionate sampling design, we need to allocate the
sample size proportionally to the size of each stratum.
First, we calculate the proportion of each stratum in the total population by dividing the size of each stratum by the total
population size:
 Stratum 1: N1 / (N1 + N2 + N3 + N4 + N5)
 Stratum 2: N2 / (N1 + N2 + N3 + N4 + N5)
 Stratum 3: N3 / (N1 + N2 + N3 + N4 + N5)
 Stratum 4: N4 / (N1 + N2 + N3 + N4 + N5)
 Stratum 5: N5 / (N1 + N2 + N3 + N4 + N5)
Next, we multiply each proportion by the sample size to determine the allocation for each stratum:
 Stratum 1: (N1 / (N1 + N2 + N3 + N4 + N5)) * n
 Stratum 2: (N2 / (N1 + N2 + N3 + N4 + N5)) * n
 Stratum 3: (N3 / (N1 + N2 + N3 + N4 + N5)) * n
 Stratum 4: (N4 / (N1 + N2 + N3 + N4 + N5)) * n
 Stratum 5: (N5 / (N1 + N2 + N3 + N4 + N5)) * n
Finally, we round the allocations to the nearest whole number to get the final sample allocation for each stratum.
For example, let's calculate the allocation for each stratum using the given population sizes and sample size:
 Stratum 1: (2000 / (2000 + 2000 + 1800 + 1700 + 2500)) * 226 = 22.6 (rounded to 23)
 Stratum 2: (2000 / (2000 + 2000 + 1800 + 1700 + 2500)) * 226 = 22.6 (rounded to 23)
 Stratum 3: (1800 / (2000 + 2000 + 1800 + 1700 + 2500)) * 226 = 20.34 (rounded to 20)
 Stratum 4: (1700 / (2000 + 2000 + 1800 + 1700 + 2500)) * 226 = 19.19 (rounded to 19)
 Stratum 5: (2500 / (2000 + 2000 + 1800 + 1700 + 2500)) * 226 = 33.97 (rounded to 34)
Therefore, the sample should be allocated as follows:
 Stratum 1: 23
 Stratum 2: 23
 Stratum 3: 20
 Stratum 4: 19
 Stratum 5: 34
Please note that the sample allocation may vary slightly depending on the rounding method used.

7. Elucidate research design? Discuss the basis of stratification employed in sampling public opinion on inflation.

Ans. Research Design

Research design refers to the overall plan or strategy that a researcher uses to answer their research question or test
their hypothesis. It outlines the steps and procedures that will be followed to collect and analyze data. A well-designed
research study ensures that the data collected is reliable, valid, and relevant to the research question.
There are several types of research designs, including experimental, quasi-experimental, correlational, descriptive, and
exploratory designs. Each design has its own strengths and weaknesses and is chosen based on the nature of the
research question and the available resources.
The research design typically includes the following components:
1. Research question or hypothesis: Clearly stating the problem or question that the study aims to address.
2. Variables: Identifying the independent and dependent variables that will be measured or manipulated in the study.
3. Sampling: Determining the target population and selecting a sample that is representative of the population.
4. Data collection: Choosing the appropriate methods and instruments to collect data, such as surveys, interviews,
observations, or experiments.
5. Data analysis: Selecting the appropriate statistical techniques or qualitative methods to analyze the collected data.
6. Ethical considerations: Ensuring that the study follows ethical guidelines and protects the rights and well-being of
participants.
7. Timeframe and resources: Planning the timeline and resources required to conduct the study.

Stratification in Sampling Public Opinion on Inflation

Stratification is a sampling technique used to ensure that the sample represents different subgroups or strata of the
population. In the context of sampling public opinion on inflation, stratification involves dividing the population into different
groups based on relevant characteristics, such as age, gender, income level, or geographic location.
The basis of stratification in sampling public opinion on inflation depends on the specific research objectives and the
factors that are believed to influence people's opinions on inflation. For example, if the researcher wants to understand
how different age groups perceive inflation, they may stratify the population into age groups (e.g., 18-24, 25-34, 35-44,
etc.).
Stratification is important because it helps ensure that the sample is representative of the population and reduces the
potential for bias. By including individuals from different strata, the researcher can capture the diversity of opinions on
inflation within the population.
Once the population is stratified, the researcher can then use different sampling techniques, such as random sampling or
systematic sampling, to select participants from each stratum. This ensures that each subgroup is adequately represented
in the sample, allowing for more accurate generalizations about the population as a whole.
In summary, stratification is a useful technique in sampling public opinion on inflation as it allows for the inclusion of
diverse subgroups within the population. This helps ensure that the sample is representative and increases the validity of
the research findings.

8. Enumerate the different methods of collecting data.

 Ans. Methods of Collecting Data
There are several methods available for collecting data, depending on the nature of the research and the type of data
required. Here are some common methods:
1. Surveys: Surveys involve asking a set of questions to a sample of individuals. They can be conducted through various
means, such as online surveys, paper-based questionnaires, or telephone interviews.
2. Observation: This method involves directly observing and recording behaviors, events, or phenomena. It can be done in
a controlled environment (controlled observation) or in a natural setting (naturalistic observation).
3. Experiments: Experiments involve manipulating variables to observe the effect on the outcome. They are often
conducted in a controlled environment to establish cause-and-effect relationships.
4. Interviews: Interviews involve face-to-face or phone conversations with individuals or groups to gather information. They
can be structured (using a predetermined set of questions) or unstructured (allowing for open-ended discussions).
5. Focus Groups: Focus groups involve bringing together a small group of individuals to discuss a specific topic. The group
interaction allows for in-depth exploration of opinions, attitudes, and experiences.
6. Document Analysis: This method involves analyzing existing documents, such as reports, articles, or historical records,
to extract relevant information.
7. Case Studies: Case studies involve in-depth analysis of a particular individual, group, or situation. They often combine
multiple data collection methods, such as interviews, observations, and document analysis.
8. Secondary Data Analysis: This method involves analyzing existing data collected by others for a different purpose. It can
be useful for conducting large-scale studies or exploring new research questions.
9. Ethnography: Ethnography involves immersing oneself in a particular culture or social group to understand their
behaviors, beliefs, and practices. It typically involves participant observation and interviews.
10. Sensor Data Collection: With advancements in technology, data can also be collected through sensors, such as GPS
trackers, wearable devices, or environmental sensors.
It is important to select the most appropriate data collection method based on the research objectives, resources
available, and ethical considerations.

9. A survey of 320 families with five children each revealed the following distribution:
No. of boys 5 4 3 2 1 0
No. of girls 0 1 2 3 4 5
No. of families 14 56 110 88 40 12
Is this distribution consistent with the hypothesis that male and female births are equally probable? Apply Chi-square test.
Ans. To determine if the distribution of boys and girls in the survey is consistent with the hypothesis that male and female
births are equally probable, we can use the Chi-square test.
The Chi-square test compares the observed frequencies (the actual distribution) with the expected frequencies (the
distribution we would expect if the hypothesis is true). If the difference between the observed and expected frequencies is
large enough, we can reject the hypothesis.
To apply the Chi-square test, we need to follow these steps:
1. Set up the null hypothesis (H0) and alternative hypothesis (Ha):
 H0: Male and female births are equally probable.
 Ha: Male and female births are not equally probable.
2. Calculate the expected frequencies:
 Since there are 320 families and 5 children in each family, the total number of children is 320 * 5 = 1600.
 If male and female births are equally probable, we would expect each number of boys and girls to have an equal chance
of occurring. Therefore, the expected frequency for each number of boys and girls is 1600 / 6 = 266.67.
3. Calculate the Chi-square statistic:
 The Chi-square statistic is calculated using the formula: X^2 = Σ((O - E)^2 / E), where O is the observed frequency and E
is the expected frequency.
 Calculate the difference between the observed and expected frequencies for each category, square the difference, and
divide by the expected frequency.
 Sum up all the values to get the Chi-square statistic.
4. Determine the degrees of freedom:
 The degrees of freedom for a Chi-square test with k categories is calculated as (k - 1).
 In this case, there are 6 categories (0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5), so the degrees of freedom is 6 - 1 = 5.
5. Determine the critical value:
 Look up the critical value for the desired significance level and degrees of freedom in the Chi-square distribution table.
 Compare the Chi-square statistic to the critical value to determine if the difference between the observed and expected
frequencies is statistically significant.
6. Make a decision:
 If the Chi-square statistic is greater than the critical value, we reject the null hypothesis and conclude that the distribution
is not consistent with the hypothesis that male and female births are equally probable.
 If the Chi-square statistic is less than or equal to the critical value, we fail to reject the null hypothesis and conclude that
the distribution is consistent with the hypothesis.
Note: Since the observed frequencies are not given for each category, it is not possible to provide the exact calculations
for this specific case. However, you can follow the steps outlined above to perform the Chi-square test using the given
distribution.