Interpreting opinion polls: some essential details

Today, the public is polled from many different angles on a wide range of issues. Results are highlighted in newspaper, magazine and television reports and are widely regarded as an accurate gauge of the public\u27s mood. Some of the most keenly watched polls, especially in the months before an election, are those on party support, leadership and political issues. In this note Sarah Miskin provides background information on polling methods and highlights potential pitfalls in interpreting results