Quota Sampling — Non-Probability Controlled Sample Selection

Quota sampling is a non-probability technique in which the researcher pre-specifies how many units to recruit from each subgroup (quota cell) defined by one or more control variables such as age, gender, or occupation. Interviewers or data collectors then use their own judgment to find and enroll participants until each cell is filled. The method guarantees the sample mirrors the population on the control variables but does not provide the randomness needed for classical statistical inference.