Merits of Census Method.

Principal merits of census method are as under:
Reliable and Accurate: Results based on census method are accurate and highly reliable. This is because each and every item of the population is studied.
Less Biased: Results based on census method are less biased. It is because of the absence of investigator’s discretion regarding the selection of sample items.
Extensive Information: Information collected through the census method is quite exhaustive and, therefore, more meaningful because all the items of a universe are examined. For example, Population census in India gives exhaustive information relating to the number of people in different parts of the country, their age and sex composition, education, status, occupation, and the like.


Study of Diverse Characteristics: By using census method, one can study diverse characteristics of the universe.
Study of a Complex Investigation: When items in a universe are of complex nature and it is necessary to study each item, only census method can produce the desired results. Data on country’s population are collected by this method.
Indirect Investigation: Census method can be successfully used in indirect investigations, relating to Unemployment, Poverty, Corruption, etc.

Demerits of Census Method.

However, there are certain demerits of census method as under:
Costly: Census method is very costly and is, therefore, generally not used for ordinary investigations. Only the government or some big institutions can afford to use this method and that too for specific purposes only.
Lane Manpower: Census method requires a lot of manpower. Training of a large number of enumerators becomes essential but is a very difficult process.
Not suitable for Large Investigations: If the universe comprises large number of items, it may not be possible to cover each and every item: Census method becomes practically inoperative in such situations. Census method is suitable when:
Area of investigation is limited.
The units are of different qualitative phenomenon.
More accuracy is desired.
The use of census method depends on the area of research, its purpose and the available resources time, money and energy.

• Provides accurate data for the entire population: The census method involves collecting information from every individual in a given population, which provides an accurate picture of the overall population.


• Helps in planning and decision-making: The data collected from the census can be used by government officials and policymakers to make informed decisions about resource allocation, infrastructure development, and other important areas.


• Enables analysis of demographic trends: Census data can be used to track changes in population size, age distribution, and other demographic variables over time, which can be used to inform policy decisions.


• Helps in identifying and addressing social issues: Census data can be used to identify areas where social issues such as poverty, unemployment, and education are most prevalent, which can help in targeting resources to address these issues.


• Provides a basis for research: Census data can be used by researchers to conduct studies on a variety of topics, ranging from healthcare to economics.

• High cost: Conducting a census can be expensive, as it requires a significant amount of resources to collect data from every individual in a given population.


• Time-consuming: Collecting data from every individual in a population can be a time-consuming process, which can delay the release of census data.


• May result in undercounting: Despite efforts to collect data from every individual, some people may be missed in the census, which can result in an undercounting of the population.


• Privacy concerns: The collection of personal information during the census can raise privacy concerns for some individuals, which may make them reluctant to participate.


• Data accuracy issues: Errors can occur during the collection and processing of census data, which can result in inaccurate data.

In conclusion, while the census method provides accurate data for the entire population and helps in planning and decision-making, it can be expensive, time-consuming, and may result in undercounting. Privacy concerns and data accuracy issues are also potential drawbacks of this method.