Which option best describes a representative sample?

A representative sample is one that accurately reflects the characteristics of the broader population from which it is drawn. This means that the sample includes various demographics, opinions, and features that exist within the larger group, providing a more valid basis for making inferences about that population. By ensuring that the sample mirrors the population's diversity, researchers can draw conclusions that are applicable to the wider group, enhancing the reliability and validity of their findings. This principle is foundational in research design, as obtaining a representative sample helps to eliminate bias and improves the generalizability of the results.