American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

What is the purpose of a cross-sectional survey?

1. To analyze changes in public opinion over time

2. To gather information about a population at a single point in time

3. To assess the impact of a specific project

4. To collect demographic data exclusively

The correct answer is: To gather information about a population at a single point in time

A cross-sectional survey is designed to gather information about a population at a single point in time. This approach allows researchers to capture a snapshot of the prevalent characteristics, attitudes, or behaviors within the population without the influence of time. By studying individuals at one moment, analysts can identify patterns, trends, and relationships within the data, making it a crucial method for understanding the current status of the subject being studied. This methodology is particularly valuable in fields like public health, sociology, and market research, where understanding the present condition can inform decisions or identify needs without the heavy resources required for longitudinal studies, which track changes over time. In contrast, other options focus on different study designs or objectives. For example, analyzing changes in public opinion over time relies on repeated measures, not a single snapshot. Assessing the impact of a specific project typically involves an experimental or quasi-experimental approach rather than a cross-sectional design. Collecting demographic data has a broader scope and can include various methodologies, but cross-sectional surveys can be just one part of that effort. Thus, the primary defining characteristic of a cross-sectional survey is its focus on a singular moment of data collection regarding a population.