The steps in the scientific method generally include the following:
- Make an Observation / Ask a Question
Start by noticing a phenomenon or posing a specific question about something you observe. This question should be clear and measurable, often beginning with how, what, why, when, or where
- Do Background Research
Gather existing information and resources related to the question. This helps avoid repeating past mistakes and informs how to design your investigation
- Formulate a Hypothesis
Create a testable explanation or prediction that addresses the question. The hypothesis should be specific and falsifiable
- Make Predictions
Based on the hypothesis, predict what results you expect to see if the hypothesis is correct
- Design and Conduct an Experiment
Test the hypothesis through controlled experiments or observations, ensuring variables are managed to obtain reliable data
- Analyze Data
Examine the experimental results to determine if they support or refute the hypothesis
- Draw Conclusions
Decide whether the hypothesis is supported or needs modification. This may lead to new questions and further experimentation
- Repeat / Iterate
The process is iterative: hypotheses can be refined, and experiments repeated to confirm findings or explore new questions
- Publish Results (optional but common in scientific practice)
Share findings with the scientific community for validation and further testing
These steps may vary slightly depending on the source or scientific discipline, but the core process remains consistent as a systematic way to investigate and understand phenomena
. In summary, the scientific method is a cyclical process involving observation, hypothesis formation, experimentation, analysis, and iteration to build reliable knowledge.
