Problem-Solving and Data AnalysisHardRecognising a selection bias
Problem-Solving and Data Analysis practice question
A hotel emails a satisfaction survey to guests who booked directly through its website, and 92% of respondents rate their stay 'excellent'. Which of the following most limits how far this result can be generalised to all the hotel's guests?
- A. Guests who booked through travel agents or other websites were not surveyed, and those who responded chose to do so.Correct
- B. The survey was sent by email.
- C. 92% is a very high figure.
- D. The hotel has many rooms.
Answer: A. Guests who booked through travel agents or other websites were not surveyed, and those who responded chose to do so.
Two gaps: a whole class of guests was excluded, and responders self-selected.
Why the other answers are wrong
- B. The survey was sent by email.
- The delivery method itself isn't the limitation.
- C. 92% is a very high figure.
- A high figure isn't a flaw in itself.
- D. The hotel has many rooms.
- Size is irrelevant.
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