An investigation of stratification is reported for a universe with strong positive skewness. The choice of stratification variable, the method of constructing strata, the sample allocation, and the number of strata are considered. Comparisons are made among four types of allocation in combination with the corresponding optimum stratifications. For four simpler methods of stratification, equal allocation and allocation proportional to stratum aggregates are contrasted. Gains from stratification are examined for several estimation variables. Illustrations utilize data for the 1961 universe of United States nonfederal, general medical hospitals for short-term care. However, the findings apply to the stratification of other populations having similar distribution functions.