Sociolinguistics is the study of the relationship between language and society. It is the study of how social variables like class, ethnicity, gender, age, region, and identity influence the manner in which people communicate, and the manner in which their communications influence social relations and perceptions. Here is the synopsis of the area of study:
Language Variation — The study focuses on the use of language across different regions of the world (dialects), in different social communities (sociolects), and in various social situations (registers). For instance, texting a friend is different from writing a job application letter.
Language and Identity — This area studies how people use language to convey who they are (age, gender, ethnic group, social class, etc.). People use different accents and linguistic choices to communicate their social identity.
Multilingualism and Code-switching — In this case, the study considers how bilinguals and multilinguals communicate using different languages and dialects in different situations.
Language Attitudes and Prestige — The area studies why certain dialects of a language are accepted as ‘standard’ or prestigious forms of language while others are looked upon with contempt.
Language Change — Language changes with time due to different influences, including network interaction.
Language Policy and Planning — The area focuses on how governments regulate the use of language.
Key Terms and Important Scholars
William Labov — He laid the foundation for quantitative sociolinguistics through his research in New York.
Basil Bernstein — He is famous for controversial research.
Deborah Tannen — She is known for her research in the field of gender differences in conversation.
Dell Hymes — He invented the term ‘ethnography of communication’ and studied linguistic use in different contexts.

Source(s) ,Link(s), Inspiration(s) and Further Reading:

Semitic: Languages of the Oldest People

Delhi’s Urdu Bazaar: A Legacy in Urban Social Fabric

Inclusion, Contestation and Identity in Indian Cities: An event report on recent talks