Final answer:
A sample that reflects the characteristics of the population is said to be representative. This type of sample can be achieved through random sampling methods, ensuring an equal chance of selection for all individuals.
Step-by-step explanation:
A sample of people selected so that it reflects the characteristics of the population of interest is said to be representative. For a sample to be considered representative, it should comprise individuals whose demographic distribution mirrors that of the entire population. This means that attributes such as sex, ethnicity, socioeconomic level, and other characteristics present in the sample should closely match the percentages found in the larger population. Random sampling methods like simple random sampling, stratified sampling, and others provide each individual in the population an equal chance of being selected, which often results in a representative sample.