What is a key component needed for effective momentary time sampling?

The key component needed for effective momentary time sampling is a timer and a data sheet. Momentary time sampling is a strategy used to observe behavior at specific intervals, where the observer records whether a behavior is occurring at the moment the timer signals. This method is particularly useful for capturing data on behaviors that occur intermittently or are difficult to observe continuously.

Having a timer ensures that observations are made at consistent and predetermined intervals, allowing for the systematic collection of data over time. The data sheet is necessary to document each observation, providing a structured format for recording when the behavior was observed or not. This combination enables accurate tracking and analysis of behavior patterns, which is critical for assessing progress and making informed decisions in behavioral interventions.