The guidelines concern basic principles and methods of survey sampling. This includes survey planning, survey quality, sampling and estimation, and nonresponse. The approach is non-technical; only necessary technical materials are included. The methods are illustrated with practical examples, and references to statistical software are given when relevant.

Because a comprehensive treatment of the various aspects of survey sampling is not possible in some brief guidelines, we have concentrated on selected topics we believe are of importance for readers. We have aimed at a practical guide intended for experts whose practical experience in survey sampling is limited but who have some background knowledge in basic statistics. For further information on topics covered and extensions, we refer to selected literature.

Custodian: Eurostat