Summary:  Rigorous selection criteria protect study validity. Learn how to define inclusion, exclusion, and diversity criteria to avoid costly misrecruits. Great research starts with choosing the right people. This article explains how to define clear selection criteria that go beyond demographics, so you recruit participants who can actually help you answer your research questions and avoid costly misrecruits. Why Selection Criteria Matter The Cost of Recruiting the Wrong Participants Move Beyond Demographics The Three Types of Selection Criteria Key Takeaways for Successful Recruitment Why Selection Criteria Matter Imagine you are running study to research a new fitness tool. You’ve written a flawless research plan , your tasks are ready, and you’ve recruited some people to participate. But when the first participant shows up, things start to fall apart: it’s clear that they’re not into fitness and they would never engage with your product.…