Convenience sampling is a type of non-probability sampling method where units are selected for inclusion in the sample due to convenience. This means that the sample is drawn from that part of the population that is close at hand, such as individuals who are easily accessible and available. Convenience sampling is often used when other types of sampling methods are hard or impossible to use because of time, cost, or other issues.

Convenience sampling is most useful for pilot testing, time-sensitive research, and when researchers need to conduct pilot data collection in order to gain a quick understanding of certain trends or to develop hypotheses for future research. It is also useful in situations where researchers want to get an idea of peoples attitudes and opinions.

Advantages of convenience sampling include its cost-effectiveness, speed, ease of use, and availability. It is also useful for initial research and when researchers need to conduct pilot data collection. However, convenience sampling is not often recommended for research due to the possibility of sampling error and lack of representation of the population. It can also have biases and limitations that can affect how well the results can be used in the real world and how reliable they are.

In summary, convenience sampling is a non-probability sampling method that is useful in certain circumstances, such as pilot testing and time-sensitive research. While it has advantages such as cost-effectiveness and ease of use, it is not often recommended for research due to the possibility of sampling error and lack of representation of the population.