Which term describes a preliminary study conducted before the main research?

Which term describes a preliminary study conducted before the main research?

• A. Random sampling
• B. Pilot study
• C. Survey population
• D. Generalisability

Answer: (B)

A pilot study is a small-scale trial run carried out before the main research to test and refine methods, instruments, and procedures. It helps researchers spot problems with data collection, question wording, or logistics, and to adjust the sampling plan, timing, and resources so the full study runs smoothly and efficiently. The idea is to rehearse the research on a tiny scale to prevent mistakes or delays later on. The other terms describe different ideas: random sampling is simply a method for selecting participants, the survey population is the group from which data are drawn, and generalisability concerns whether the study’s findings can apply more broadly beyond the sample.

A pilot study is a small-scale trial run carried out before the main research to test and refine methods, instruments, and procedures. It helps researchers spot problems with data collection, question wording, or logistics, and to adjust the sampling plan, timing, and resources so the full study runs smoothly and efficiently. The idea is to rehearse the research on a tiny scale to prevent mistakes or delays later on. The other terms describe different ideas: random sampling is simply a method for selecting participants, the survey population is the group from which data are drawn, and generalisability concerns whether the study’s findings can apply more broadly beyond the sample.