Approximate magnitude of completed family size is denoted by
**Core Concept**
The total fertility rate (TFR) is a demographic measure used to estimate the average number of children a woman would have in her lifetime based on the age-specific fertility rates of a given population. It is a key indicator of reproductive health and family planning outcomes.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The TFR takes into account the age-specific fertility rates of women in a population, which is essential for estimating the average number of children a woman would have in her lifetime. This measure is particularly useful for understanding population growth, fertility trends, and the impact of family planning interventions. The TFR is calculated by summing the age-specific fertility rates of women in each age group, which gives an estimate of the average number of children a woman would have in her lifetime.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** The general fertility rate (GFR) is the number of births per 1,000 women of reproductive age (usually 15-44 years) in a given year. While it provides information on fertility rates, it does not estimate the average number of children a woman would have in her lifetime.
**Option B:** The total marital fertility rate (TMFR) is the average number of children a married woman would have in her lifetime, based on the fertility rates of married women in a given population. Although it is related to the TFR, it only accounts for married women and does not provide a comprehensive estimate of fertility.
**Option D:** The general marital fertility rate (GMFR) is the number of births per 1,000 married women of reproductive age in a given year. Like the GFR, it provides information on fertility rates but does not estimate the average number of children a woman would have in her lifetime.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Remember that the total fertility rate (TFR) is a sensitive indicator of reproductive health and family planning outcomes, and it can be used to monitor the impact of family planning interventions and population growth.
**✓ Correct Answer: C. Total fertility rate**