In the scientific method, a hypothesis is
A) a final answer to a question.
B) formulated by statistical analysis of data.
C) an alternative to an experiment.
D) the basis for making predictions.
E) formulated solely by speculation.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A hypothesis is an educated guess or tentative explanation that serves as the basis for making predictions. It is not a final answer, but rather a testable statement that can be supported or refuted by data. Statistical analysis may be used to help support or reject a hypothesis, but it is not the way that hypotheses are formulated. A hypothesis is not an alternative to an experiment, but rather a part of the scientific method that guides the design of experiments. While hypotheses are often based on some degree of speculation, they should be grounded in existing knowledge and observations.

In the Scientific Method, a Hypothesis Is