Which polling method generates phone numbers with desired area codes without targeting specific numbers?

Which polling method generates phone numbers with desired area codes without targeting specific numbers?

• A. Straw polling
• B. Random-digit-dialing
• C. Push polling
• D. Exit polling

Answer: (B)

The method being tested is about reaching a geographic sample by generating phone numbers at random rather than using a pre-made list. Random-digit-dialing creates numbers by randomly selecting digits, often keeping the area code tied to the target region, so you dial numbers that could belong to any household in that area without targeting specific individuals. This approach helps create a sample that’s not biased by directory lists or known contacts, giving each number in the area a chance to be included. Straw polling isn’t based on a systematic, random approach; it relies on whatever respondents are available and often leads to biased results. Push polling tries to influence opinions under the guise of a poll, rather than gathering a random sample. Exit polling collects data at polling places on election day, which is a different context and not about generating random phone samples for a region.

The method being tested is about reaching a geographic sample by generating phone numbers at random rather than using a pre-made list. Random-digit-dialing creates numbers by randomly selecting digits, often keeping the area code tied to the target region, so you dial numbers that could belong to any household in that area without targeting specific individuals. This approach helps create a sample that’s not biased by directory lists or known contacts, giving each number in the area a chance to be included.

Straw polling isn’t based on a systematic, random approach; it relies on whatever respondents are available and often leads to biased results. Push polling tries to influence opinions under the guise of a poll, rather than gathering a random sample. Exit polling collects data at polling places on election day, which is a different context and not about generating random phone samples for a region.