In the context of research, what is a larger sample size likely to decrease?

A larger sample size is likely to decrease the margin of error in research. The margin of error defines the range within which the true population parameter is expected to lie, based on sample statistics. When the sample size increases, the estimates become more stable and reliable, as they better represent the entire population. Consequently, the variability among sample estimates decreases, which tightens the margin of error.

This improvement occurs because larger samples can more effectively account for the diversity and characteristics present within a population. In statistical terms, the relationship is often described as an inverse relationship between sample size and margin of error: as the size of the sample increases, the margin of error decreases, leading to more precise results. This is fundamental in ensuring that findings are statistically significant and can be generalized to the broader population with greater confidence.