Determining the appropriate sample size is a fundamental aspect of research design. It refers to the number of participants or observations included in a study, and it plays a crucial role in ensuring the validity and reliability of the research findings. The sample size should be neither too small, which could lead to unreliable results, nor too large, which could be inefficient and costly.
The importance of choosing the proper sample size cannot be overstated. It directly impacts the accuracy and generalizability of the research findings. An appropriately sized sample helps researchers draw meaningful conclusions that can be applied to a larger population. Conversely, an inadequate sample size can result in biased or unreliable findings, rendering the research efforts futile.