The Scientific Method Step 3-Predictions

Seite 1

The prediction step of the scientific method is a continuation of the hypothesis. It is the step where the inductive reasoning which brought about the hypothesis is transformed into a practical thought process where a reasoned prediction is made through deductive reasoning. Deductive reasoning can be seen as a specific expectation which can be made from the generalized idea of the hypothesis.

To make a prediction all possible external factors must be taken into account and all variables considered and as a result there is an idea of the effect of the hypothesis within the scientific study. This prediction must then be put to the test in a context which proves effectively the hypothesis to be true or false. This is known as a controlled experiment which can be seen by all scientists as reliable and without bias from the objective prediction.

New Page