Which design uses structured instruments to collect descriptive data from large samples?

• A. Survey Research
• B. Case-control study
• C. Cohort study
• D. Meta-analysis

Answer: (A)

Collecting descriptive data from large samples with standardized questions or instruments is the hallmark of survey research. Using structured instruments like questionnaires or fixed interview formats ensures every participant answers the same questions in the same way, which lets researchers describe characteristics, attitudes, and behaviors across a population and estimate prevalence. This focus on description and measurement at a population level distinguishes it from analytic designs that look for associations or track outcomes over time, and from meta-analyses that synthesize data from existing studies rather than collect new descriptive data.