Sampling is the process of selecting a small group from a larger population to study and make inferences about that population. For example, if researchers want to understand the eating habits of teenagers in a city, they might survey a few hundred students from different schools instead of asking every teenager. This makes the research more manageable and cost-effective. The key to effective sampling is ensuring that the selected group accurately represents the larger population. This can be achieved through methods like random sampling, where every individual has an equal chance of being chosen. Good sampling helps researchers draw valid conclusions without needing to survey everyone.