OE Original: A Guide to Different Methods of Randomization .
Randomization is one of the most important tools we have in clinical research—it’s what helps keep treatment groups comparable and protects trials from bias. But not all randomization is created equal. Different study designs, sample sizes, and baseline characteristics call for different approaches, and choosing the wrong method can undermine an otherwise well-designed trial. The major types of randomization—simple, block, stratified, and covariate-adaptive—are reviewed and explained for when each method is the most appropriate. From small early-phase trials that need tight balance between groups to larger studies that must account for important covariates like age or smoking status, understanding these methods is essential for designing rigorous, trustworthy clinical trials.
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