The Scientific Method
The scientific method is the process by which science is carried out. As in other areas of inquiry, science (through the scientific method) can build on previous knowledge and develop a more sophisticated understanding of its topics of study over time.
The overall process involves making conjectures (hypotheses), deriving predictions from them as logical consequences, and then carrying out experiments based on those predictions to determine whether the original conjecture was correct.
An iterative scheme may be utilized as a guideline for proceeding for designing research investigations:
- Define a question
- Gather information and resources (observe)
- Form an explanatory hypothesis
- Test the hypothesis by performing an experiment and collecting data in a reproducible manner
- Analyze the data
- Interpret the data and draw conclusions that serve as a starting point for a new hypothesis
- Publish results
- Retest (frequently done by other scientists)
Just as it does for professional scientists, the idea of a 'scientific method' will help you to focus your science fair project question, construct a hypothesis, design, execute, and evaluate the results / data of your experiments.
