Final answer:
The t-distribution should be used when the sample size is small and the population standard deviation is unknown.
Step-by-step explanation:
A t-distribution should be used in the following scenario:
- When the sample size is small and the population standard deviation is unknown.
The t-distribution is used when the population standard deviation is unknown and the sample size is small. It allows for more accurate inference in these situations. If the sample size is large, a normal distribution can be used instead, regardless of whether the population standard deviation is known or unknown.