To determine if the sampling method used by the store manager supports a valid inference about the percentage of shoppers who use coupons, we need to consider whether the sample is representative of the entire population of shoppers.
The options presented can be analyzed as follows:
A) Yes, because the manager asked everyone who entered the meat aisle.
While this may seem inclusive, asking everyone in a specific aisle can create bias, as shoppers in the meat aisle may not represent the entire shopper population.
B) No, because the sample is not chosen randomly.
This option highlights a crucial point: random sampling is important for valid inferences about a larger population.
C) No, because not all people who enter the meat aisle use coupons.
This option points out a limitation in generalizing from the sample, but it does not directly address the issue of how the sample was chosen.
D) Yes, because the sample contains coupon users and non-users.
While this is true, it does not guarantee that the sample is representative if not selected randomly.
Considering the underlying principles of statistical sampling, B) No, because the sample is not chosen randomly is the best answer. A random sampling method is essential for making valid inferences about the larger population of shoppers.