When defining a good research study, which of the following should be included?

A good research study must clearly outline the sample being studied, including how it was obtained, since this forms the foundation for the reliability and validity of the research findings. The sample represents the population being examined, and understanding its characteristics is crucial for drawing accurate conclusions about the effects or relationships being studied. A well-defined sample helps ensure that the research has external validity, meaning the findings can be generalized to a broader population.

Moreover, how the sample is obtained—whether through random sampling, convenience sampling, or another method—affects the potential for bias and the integrity of the study's results. This component is crucial for replicating the study and for other researchers to understand the context of the findings.

While a description of the planned statistical analysis, a statement of the problem, and a list of hypotheses are all important aspects of a comprehensive study, they do not carry the same foundational significance as the description of the sample. Essentially, without a well-defined sample, the entire study's conclusions can be compromised, rendering other components less meaningful.