Which polling method provides a fairly precise reading of public opinion by using random sampling and neutral questioning?

• A. Scientific Polling
• B. Entrance Survey
• C. Exit Poll
• D. Watchdog

Answer: (A)

Accurate public opinion measurement comes from a sampling method that selects respondents at random and from neutrally worded questions. This combination minimizes bias and makes results generalizable to the broader population. Scientific polling designs the sample to be representative, using random selection, an appropriate sample size, and weighting to reflect demographics. It also uses neutral, non-leading questions and reports margins of error and confidence levels, which together provide a fairly precise reading of opinion. In contrast, an entrance survey captures the views of people entering a venue, not the entire population; an exit poll collects opinions from voters as they leave a polling place, which can be influenced by turnout patterns; and a watchdog is not a polling method at all but an organization that monitors elections.