Family Nurse Practitioner Exam

Which symbol is used to indicate "total population" in research studies?

1. The symbol called "n = "

2. The symbol called "N ="

3. The symbol called "p ="

4. The symbol called "P ="

The correct answer is: The symbol called "N ="

In research studies, the symbol "N =" is conventionally used to represent the total population. This notation denoted by an uppercase 'N' distinguishes it from 'n', which refers to a sample size from that total population. Understanding the distinction between these symbols is crucial in interpreting research findings accurately. The uppercase 'N' indicates that the figure refers to the entire population under study, whereas a lowercase 'n' would indicate a subset or sample taken from that population. This differentiation is vital in statistical analyses, as many conclusions drawn from studies are dependent on whether data is derived from a sample or a full population. The other symbols listed have different meanings in the context of research. For example, 'p' typically signifies the proportion or probability of a particular characteristic within a sample, while 'P' often represents the population proportion or probability. These definitions highlight the importance of using the correct symbol to convey precise information in research studies.