# sampling modifier

The sampling modifier limits the number
of items processed by the AQL sentence to a specific number. If selection
criteria are included within the sentence, processing continues until
the specified number of items are found that match the selection criteria.

## Syntax

```
sampling sample.number
```

## Example(s)

```
select entity sampling 10
[4042] 10 items selected out of 10 sampling items.
```
In this example, 1513 items had to be sampled to return
the 10 items requested.

```
select entity with name "[mary]" sampling 10
[4042] 10 items selected out of 1513 sampling items.
```

## See also

- [AQL command categories](https://d3codex.com/access/aql-command-categories/)
- [Modifiers](https://d3codex.com/access/modifiers/)

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Source: https://d3codex.com/access/sampling-modifier/ - part of the D3Codex reference.