A practical reading method

Separate a Sample Result From a Population Claim

Record who participated, how they were recruited, and who was excluded or absent. Write the measured result at the sample level before reading the broad conclusion. Compare the conclusion’s population with the sample and mark the largest unsupported extension.

Use this when a research result from one sample is discussed as if it applies to a larger population. Sample size alone does not establish fit. Recruitment, exclusions, setting, and missing groups determine how far the result can travel.

Use case

When this method helps

Use this when a research result from one sample is discussed as if it applies to a larger population.

Sample size alone does not establish fit. Recruitment, exclusions, setting, and missing groups determine how far the result can travel.

Method

Build the note

1. Record who participated, how they were recruited, and who was excluded or absent.

2. Write the measured result at the sample level before reading the broad conclusion.

3. Compare the conclusion’s population with the sample and mark the largest unsupported extension.

Example

See the boundary in practice

A result from volunteers at one university may be useful without representing every adult in the country.

Quality check

Before you trust the note

Replace ‘people’ in your note with the actual sample. If the meaning changes sharply, keep the narrower wording.