What defines a sample in statistics?

In statistics, a sample is a subset of individuals or items selected from a larger population. The purpose of using a sample is to draw conclusions about the population without needing to study every single member. For instance, if a company wants to know the customer satisfaction of its products, it might survey one thousand customers out of a hundred thousand. This sample should ideally represent the larger population to ensure accurate and reliable results. Sampling techniques can vary, including random sampling, where every member has an equal chance of being selected.