The target population is the specific group of individuals or entities that a research study, survey, or intervention aims to understand, assess, or affect. Clearly defining the target population is crucial for ensuring the validity and applicability of the study's findings, as it influences the sampling strategy and the generalizability of the results.
Population specification is the process of clearly defining the group of individuals or elements that a study or survey intends to investigate, ensuring that the data collected is relevant and representative. It is crucial for minimizing bias and improving the validity and reliability of research findings by delineating the characteristics that qualify subjects for inclusion or exclusion in the study.