How to Conduct an Experiment Using the Scientific Method

The scientific method was devised to allow scientists to conduct investigations objectively. Here's the method in a nutshell.

Step 1: Make an observation Observe some occurrence or group of occurrences, and describe it.
Step 2: Make a hypothesis Formulate a hypothesis -- an educated guess -- to explain the observation.
TIP: Scientists often express hypotheses as cause-effect relationships or mathematical expressions.
Step 3: Use the hypothesis Use the hypothesis to predict new behavior, or the quantitative results of new observations.
Step 4: Perform an experiment Perform an experiment to test the predictions of the hypothesis.
Step 5: Accept or reject the hypothesis Elevate the hypothesis to a theory if the experiment supports the hypothesis. If the experiment does not confirm it, the hypothesis must be discarded or modified.
FACT: The Greek philosopher Aristotle is credited with being one of the fathers of the scientific method.