A few situations are first reviewed where practical shortcuts lead to acceptable solutions where none seemed to be possible. These include: The solving of many complex sampling optimisation problems with the simple approach of the worst case policy (WCP)._x000D_
A simple approach to single-stage sampling problems will be mentioned at continuation._x000D_
In the plants, minimising the impact of border effects in incorrect samplers, so that the resulting samples are approximately correct and acceptable in practice because the bias risk attached to them is controlled._x000D_
Examples are given, as well as practical tools and a general methodology.Finally, some sources of undue conservatism are reviewed with general recommendations aiming at eliminating them.CITATION:Franois-Bongaron, D M, 2012. Practical considerations and shortcuts in sampling, in Proceedings Sampling 2012, pp 171-174 (The Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy: Melbourne).