Final answer:
To collect data on voter preferences, conducting a survey is the most appropriate method. This involves creating a questionnaire administered to a representative sample of the population, which can be done online, by phone, by mail, or in person.
Step-by-step explanation:
To gather a data set on voter preferences, the most suitable method would be to conduct a survey. Surveys are a widely used scientific research method that involves collecting data from respondents who answer a series of questions about behaviors and opinions, typically in the form of a questionnaire or interview. This method is highly effective for capturing how people feel and think, particularly about political choices and elections.
The process of conducting a survey starts by identifying the target population, which would depend on whether the focus is on a specific geographical area like a state or the entire country. For instance, if the goal is to predict the outcome of a presidential election, a national sample of citizens with voting history would be relevant. Once the desired population is identified, it's essential to create a sample that is random and representative, ensuring that the survey results can be generalized to the broader voter population.
Surveys can be administered in various mediums including online, over the phone, by mail, or face-to-face. Among these, online surveys have become increasingly popular due to their cost-effectiveness and wide reach. However, careful attention must be paid to ensure that the sample represents the population adequately and that the questions are designed to elicit clear, unbiased responses.