5 Characteristics of a Good Hypothesis: A Guide for Researchers

  • by Brian Thomas
  • October 4, 2024

Are you a curious soul, always seeking answers to the whys and hows of the world? As a researcher, formulating a hypothesis is a crucial first step towards unraveling the mysteries of your study. A well-crafted hypothesis not only guides your research but also lays the foundation for drawing valid conclusions. But what exactly makes a hypothesis a good one? In this blog post, we will explore the five key characteristics of a good hypothesis that every researcher should know.

Here, we will delve into the world of hypotheses, covering everything from their types in research to understanding if they can be proven true. Whether you’re a seasoned researcher or just starting out, this blog post will provide valuable insights on how to craft a sound hypothesis for your study. So let’s dive in and uncover the secrets to formulating a hypothesis that stands strong amidst the scientific rigor!

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5 Characteristics of a Good Hypothesis

Clear and specific.

A good hypothesis is like a GPS that guides you to the right destination. It needs to be clear and specific so that you know exactly what you’re testing. Avoid vague statements or general ideas. Instead, focus on crafting a hypothesis that clearly states the relationship between variables and the expected outcome. Clarity is key, my friend!

Testable and Falsifiable

A hypothesis might sound great in theory, but if you can’t test it or prove it wrong, then it’s like chasing unicorns. A good hypothesis should be testable and falsifiable – meaning there should be a way to gather evidence to support or refute it. Don’t be afraid to challenge your hypothesis and put it to the test. Only when it can be proven false can it truly be considered a good hypothesis.

Based on Existing Knowledge

Imagine trying to build a Lego tower without any Lego bricks. That’s what it’s like to come up with a hypothesis that has no basis in existing knowledge. A good hypothesis is grounded in previous research, theories, or observations. It shows that you’ve done your homework and understand the current state of knowledge in your field. So, put on your research hat and gather those building blocks for a solid hypothesis!

Specific Predictions

No, we’re not talking about crystal ball predictions or psychic abilities here. A good hypothesis includes specific predictions about what you expect to happen. It’s like making an educated guess based on your understanding of the variables involved. These predictions help guide your research and give you something concrete to look for. So, put on those prediction goggles, my friend, and let’s get specific!

Relevant to the Research Question

A hypothesis is a road sign that points you in the right direction. But if it’s not relevant to your research question, then you might end up in a never-ending detour. A good hypothesis aligns with your research question and addresses the specific problem or phenomenon you’re investigating. Keep your focus on the main topic and avoid getting sidetracked by shiny distractions. Stay relevant, my friend, and you’ll find the answers you seek!

And there you have it: the five characteristics of a good hypothesis. Remember, a good hypothesis is clear, testable, based on existing knowledge, makes specific predictions, and is relevant to your research question. So go forth, my friend, and hypothesize your way to scientific discovery!

FAQs: Characteristics of a Good Hypothesis

In the realm of scientific research, a hypothesis plays a crucial role in formulating and testing ideas. A good hypothesis serves as the foundation for an experiment or study, guiding the researcher towards meaningful results. In this FAQ-style subsection, we’ll explore the characteristics of a good hypothesis, their types, formulation, and more. So let’s dive in and unravel the mysteries of hypothesis-making!

What Are Two Important Characteristics of a Good Hypothesis

A good hypothesis possesses two important characteristics:

Testability : A hypothesis must be testable to determine its validity. It should be formulated in a way that allows researchers to design and conduct experiments or gather data for analysis. For example, if we hypothesize that “drinking herbal tea reduces stress,” we can easily test it by conducting a study with a control group and a group drinking herbal tea.

Falsifiability : Falsifiability refers to the potential for a hypothesis to be proven wrong. A good hypothesis should make specific predictions that can be refuted or supported by evidence. This characteristic ensures that hypotheses are based on empirical observations rather than personal opinions. For instance, the hypothesis “all swans are white” can be falsified by discovering a single black swan.

What Are the Types of Hypothesis in Research

In research, there are three main types of hypotheses:

Null Hypothesis (H0) : The null hypothesis is a statement of no effect or relationship. It assumes that there is no significant difference between variables or no effect of a treatment. Researchers aim to reject the null hypothesis in favor of an alternative hypothesis.

Alternative Hypothesis (HA or H1) : The alternative hypothesis is the opposite of the null hypothesis. It asserts that there is a significant difference between variables or an effect of a treatment. Researchers seek evidence to support the alternative hypothesis.

Directional Hypothesis : A directional hypothesis predicts the specific direction of the relationship or difference between variables. For example, “increasing exercise duration will lead to greater weight loss.”

Can a Hypothesis Be Proven True

In scientific research, hypotheses are not proven true; they are supported or rejected based on empirical evidence . Even if a hypothesis is supported by multiple studies, new evidence could arise that contradicts it. Scientific knowledge is always subject to revision and refinement. Therefore, the goal is to gather enough evidence to either support or reject a hypothesis, rather than proving it absolutely true.

What Are the Six Parts of a Hypothesis

A hypothesis typically consists of six essential parts:

Research Question : A clear and concise question that the hypothesis seeks to answer.

Variables : Identification of the independent (manipulated) and dependent (measured) variables involved in the hypothesis.

Population : The specific group or individuals the hypothesis is concerned with.

Relationship or Comparison : The expected relationship or difference between variables, often indicated by directional terms like “more,” “less,” “higher,” or “lower.”

Predictability : A statement of the predicted outcome or result based on the relationship between variables.

Testability : The ability to design an experiment or gather data to support or reject the hypothesis.

How Do You Start a Hypothesis Sentence

When starting a hypothesis sentence, it is essential to use clear and concise language to express your ideas. A common approach is to use the phrase “If…then…” to establish the conditional relationship between variables. For example:

  • If [independent variable], then [dependent variable] because [explanation of expected relationship].

This structure allows for a straightforward and logical formulation of the hypothesis.

What Are Examples of Hypotheses

Here are a few examples of well-formulated hypotheses:

If exposure to sunlight increases, then plants will grow taller because sunlight is necessary for photosynthesis.

If students receive praise for good grades, then their motivation to excel will increase because they seek recognition and approval.

If the dose of a painkiller is increased, then the relief from pain will last longer because a higher dosage has a prolonged effect.

What Are the Five Key Elements to a Good Hypothesis

A good hypothesis should include the following five key elements:

Clarity : The hypothesis should be clear and specific, leaving no room for interpretation.

Testability : It should be possible to test the hypothesis through experimentation or data collection.

Relevance : The hypothesis should be directly tied to the research question or problem being investigated.

Specificity : It must clearly state the relationship or difference between variables being studied.

Falsifiability : The hypothesis should make predictions that can be refuted or supported by empirical evidence.

What Makes a Good Hypothesis in a Research Paper

In a research paper, a good hypothesis should have the following characteristics:

Relevance : It must directly relate to the research topic and address the objectives of the study.

Clarity : The hypothesis should be concise and precisely worded to avoid confusion.

Unambiguous : It must leave no room for multiple interpretations or ambiguity.

Logic : The hypothesis should be based on rational and logical reasoning, considering existing theories and observations.

Empirical Support : Ideally, the hypothesis should be supported by prior empirical evidence or strong theoretical justifications.

Is a Hypothesis Always a Question

No, a hypothesis is not always in the form of a question. While some hypotheses can take the form of a question, others may be statements asserting a relationship or difference between variables. The form of a hypothesis depends on the research question being addressed and the researcher’s preferred style of expression.

What Are the Three Things Needed for a Good Hypothesis

For a hypothesis to be considered good, it must fulfill the following three criteria:

Testability : The hypothesis should be formulated in a way that allows for empirical testing through experimentation or data collection.

Falsifiability : It must make specific predictions that can be potentially refuted or supported by evidence.

Relevance : The hypothesis should directly address the research question or problem being investigated.

What Are the Four Components to a Good Hypothesis

A good hypothesis typically consists of four components:

Independent Variable : The variable being manipulated or controlled by the researcher.

Dependent Variable : The variable being measured or observed to determine the effect of the independent variable.

Directionality : The predicted relationship or difference between the independent and dependent variables.

Population : The specific group or individuals to which the hypothesis applies.

How Do You Formulate a Hypothesis

To formulate a hypothesis, follow these steps:

Identify the Research Topic : Clearly define the area or phenomenon you want to study.

Conduct Background Research : Review existing literature and research to gain knowledge about the topic.

Formulate a Research Question : Ask a clear and focused question that you want to answer through your hypothesis.

State the Null and Alternative Hypotheses : Develop a null hypothesis to assume no effect or relationship, and an alternative hypothesis to propose a significant effect or relationship.

Decide on Variables and Relationships : Determine the independent and dependent variables and the predicted relationship between them.

Refine and Test : Refine your hypothesis, ensuring it is clear, testable, and falsifiable. Then, design experiments or gather data to support or reject it.

What Is a Characteristic of a Hypothesis MCQ

Multiple-choice questions (MCQ) regarding the characteristics of a hypothesis often assess knowledge on the testability and falsifiability of hypotheses. They may ask about the criteria that distinguish a good hypothesis from a poor one or the importance of making specific predictions. Remember to choose answers that emphasize the empirical and testable nature of hypotheses.

What Five Criteria Must Be Satisfied for a Hypothesis to Be Scientific

For a hypothesis to be considered scientific, it must satisfy the following five criteria:

Testability : The hypothesis must be formulated in a way that allows it to be tested through experimentation or data collection.

Falsifiability : It should make specific predictions that can be potentially refuted or supported by empirical evidence.

Empirical Basis : The hypothesis should be based on empirical observations or existing theories and knowledge.

Relevance : It must directly address the research question or problem being investigated.

Objective : A scientific hypothesis should be free from personal biases or subjective opinions, focusing on objective observations and analysis.

What Are the Steps of Theory Development in Scientific Methods

In scientific methods, theory development typically involves the following steps:

Observation : Identifying a phenomenon or pattern worthy of investigation through observation or empirical data.

Formulation of a Hypothesis : Constructing a hypothesis that explains the observed phenomena or predicts a relationship between variables.

Data Collection : Gathering relevant data through experiments, surveys, observations, or other research methods.

Analysis : Analyzing the collected data to evaluate the hypothesis’s predictions and determine their validity.

Revision and Refinement : Based on the analysis, refining the hypothesis, modifying the theory, or formulating new hypotheses for further investigation.

Which of the Following Makes a Good Hypothesis

A good hypothesis is characterized by:

Testability : The ability to form experiments or gather data to support or refute the hypothesis.

Falsifiability : The potential for the hypothesis’s predictions to be proven wrong based on empirical evidence.

Clarity : A clear and concise statement or question that leaves no room for ambiguity.

Relevancy : Directly addressing the research question or problem at hand.

Remember, it is important to select the option that encompasses all these characteristics.

What Are the Characteristics of a Good Hypothesis

A good hypothesis possesses several characteristics, such as:

Testability : It should allow for empirical testing through experiments or data collection.

Falsifiability : The hypothesis should make specific predictions that can be potentially refuted or supported by evidence.

Clarity : It must be clearly and precisely formulated, leaving no room for ambiguity or multiple interpretations.

Relevance : The hypothesis should directly relate to the research question or problem being investigated.

What Is the Five-Step p-value Approach to Hypothesis Testing

The five-step p-value approach is a commonly used framework for hypothesis testing:

Step 1: Formulating the Hypotheses : The null hypothesis (H0) assumes no effect or relationship, while the alternative hypothesis (HA) proposes a significant effect or relationship.

Step 2: Setting the Significance Level : Decide on the level of significance (α), which represents the probability of rejecting the null hypothesis when it is true. The commonly used level is 0.05 (5%).

Step 3: Collecting Data and Performing the Test : Acquire and analyze the data, calculating the test statistic and the corresponding p-value.

Step 4: Comparing the p-value with the Significance Level : If the p-value is less than the significance level (α), reject the null hypothesis. Otherwise, fail to reject the null hypothesis.

Step 5: Drawing Conclusions : Based on the comparison in Step 4, interpret the results and draw conclusions about the hypothesis.

What Are the Stages of Hypothesis

The stages of hypothesis generally include:

Observation : Identifying a pattern, phenomenon, or research question that warrants investigation.

Formulation : Developing a hypothesis that explains or predicts the relationship or difference between variables.

Testing : Collecting data, designing experiments, or conducting studies to gather evidence supporting or refuting the hypothesis.

Analysis : Assessing the collected data to determine whether the results support or reject the hypothesis.

Conclusion : Drawing conclusions based on the analysis and making further iterations, refinements, or new hypotheses for future research.

What Is a Characteristic of a Good Hypothesis

A characteristic of a good hypothesis is its ability to make specific predictions about the relationship or difference between variables. Good hypotheses avoid vague statements and clearly articulate the expected outcomes. By doing so, researchers can design experiments or gather data that directly test the predictions, leading to meaningful results.

How Do You Write a Good Hypothesis Example

To write a good hypothesis example, follow these guidelines:

If possible, use the “If…then…” format to express a conditional relationship between variables.

Be clear and concise in stating the variables involved, the predicted relationship, and the expected outcome.

Ensure the hypothesis is testable, meaning it can be evaluated through experiments or data collection.

For instance, consider the following example:

If students study for longer periods of time, then their test scores will improve because increased study time allows for better retention of information and increased proficiency.

What Is the Difference Between Hypothesis and Hypotheses

The main difference between a hypothesis and hypotheses lies in their grammatical number. A hypothesis refers to a single statement or proposition that is formulated to explain or predict the relationship between variables. On the other hand, hypotheses is the plural form of the term hypothesis, commonly used when multiple statements or propositions are proposed and tested simultaneously.

What Is a Good Hypothesis Statement

A good hypothesis statement exhibits the following qualities:

Clarity : It is written in clear and concise language, leaving no room for confusion or ambiguity.

Testability : The hypothesis should be formulated in a way that enables testing through experiments or data collection.

Specificity : It must clearly state the predicted relationship or difference between variables.

By adhering to these criteria, a good hypothesis statement guides research efforts effectively.

What Is Not a Characteristic of a Good Hypothesis

A characteristic that does not align with a good hypothesis is subjectivity . A hypothesis should be objective, based on empirical observations or existing theories, and free from personal bias. While personal interpretations and opinions can inspire the formulation of a hypothesis, it must ultimately rely on objective observations and be open to empirical testing.

By now, you’ve gained insights into the characteristics of a good hypothesis, including testability, falsifiability, clarity,

  • characteristics
  • falsifiable
  • good hypothesis
  • hypothesis testing
  • null hypothesis
  • observations
  • scientific rigor

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The 5 Components of a Good Hypothesis

Originally published: November 12, 2014 by Teresa Torres | Last updated: December 7, 2018

Update: I’ve since revised this hypothesis format. You can find the most current version in this article:

  • How to Improve Your Experiment Design (And Build Trust in Your Product Experiments)

“My hypothesis is …”

These words are becoming more common everyday. Product teams are starting to talk like scientists. Are you?

The internet industry is going through a mindset shift. Instead of assuming we have all the right answers, we are starting to acknowledge that building products is hard. We are accepting the reality that our ideas are going to fail more often than they are going to succeed.

Rather than waiting to find out which ideas are which after engineers build them, smart product teams are starting to integrate experimentation into their product discovery process. They are asking themselves, how can we test this idea before we invest in it?

This process starts with formulating a good hypothesis.

These Are Not the Hypotheses You Are Looking For

When we are new to hypothesis testing, we tend to start with hypotheses like these:

  • Fixing the hard-to-use comment form will increase user engagement.
  • A redesign will improve site usability.
  • Reducing prices will make customers happy.

There’s only one problem. These aren’t testable hypotheses. They aren’t specific enough.

A good hypothesis can be clearly refuted or supported by an experiment. – Tweet This

To make sure that your hypotheses can be supported or refuted by an experiment, you will want to include each of these elements:

  • the change that you are testing
  • what impact we expect the change to have
  • who you expect it to impact
  • by how much
  • after how long

The Change:  This is the change that you are introducing to your product. You are testing a new design, you are adding new copy to a landing page, or you are rolling out a new feature.

Be sure to get specific. Fixing a hard-to-use comment form is not specific enough. How will you fix it? Some solutions might work. Others might not. Each is a hypothesis in its own right.

Design changes can be particularly challenging. Your hypothesis should cover a specific design not the idea of a redesign.

In other words, use this:

  • This specific design will increase conversions.
  • Redesigning the landing page will increase conversions.

The former can be supported or refuted by an experiment. The latter can encompass dozens of design solutions, where some might work and others might not.

The Expected Impact:  The expected impact should clearly define what you expect to see as a result of making the change.

How will you know if your change is successful? Will it reduce response times, increase conversions, or grow your audience?

The expected impact needs to be specific and measurable. – Tweet This

You might hypothesize that your new design will increase usability. This isn’t specific enough.

You need to define how you will measure an increase in usability. Will it reduce the time to complete some action? Will it increase customer satisfaction? Will it reduce bounce rates?

There are dozens of ways that you might measure an increase in usability. In order for this to be a testable hypothesis, you need to define which metric you expect to be affected by this change.

Who Will Be Impacted: The third component of a good hypothesis is who will be impacted by this change. Too often, we assume everyone. But this is rarely the case.

I was recently working with a product manager who was testing a sign up form popup upon exiting a page.

I’m sure you’ve seen these before. You are reading a blog post and just as you are about to navigate away, you get a popup that asks, “Would you like to subscribe to our newsletter?”

She A/B tested this change by showing it to half of her population, leaving the rest as her control group. But there was a problem.

Some of her visitors were already subscribers. They don’t need to subscribe again. For this population, the answer to this popup will always be no.

Rather than testing with her whole population, she should be testing with just the people who are not currently subscribers.

This isn’t easy to do. And it might not sound like it’s worth the effort, but it’s the only way to get good results.

Suppose she has 100 visitors. Fifty see the popup and fifty don’t. If 45 of the people who see the popup are already subscribers and as a result they all say no, and of the five remaining visitors only 1 says yes, it’s going to look like her conversion rate is 1 out of 50, or 2%. However, if she limits her test to just the people who haven’t subscribed, her conversion rate is 1 out of 5, or 20%. This is a huge difference.

Who you test with is often the most important factor for getting clean results. – Tweet This

By how much: The fourth component builds on the expected impact. You need to define how much of an impact you expect your change to have.

For example, if you are hypothesizing that your change will increase conversion rates, then you need to estimate by how much, as in the change will increase conversion rate from x% to y%, where x is your current conversion rate and y is your expected conversion rate after making the change.

This can be hard to do and is often a guess. However, you still want to do it. It serves two purposes.

First, it helps you draw a line in the sand. This number should determine in black and white terms whether or not your hypothesis passes or fails and should dictate how you act on the results.

Suppose you hypothesize that the change will improve conversion rates by 10%, then if your change results in a 9% increase, your hypothesis fails.

This might seem extreme, but it’s a critical step in making sure that you don’t succumb to your own biases down the road.

It’s very easy after the fact to determine that 9% is good enough. Or that 2% is good enough. Or that -2% is okay, because you like the change. Without a line in the sand, you are setting yourself up to ignore your data.

The second reason why you need to define by how much is so that you can calculate for how long to run your test.

After how long:  Too many teams run their tests for an arbitrary amount of time or stop the results when one version is winning.

This is a problem. It opens you up to false positives and releasing changes that don’t actually have an impact.

If you hypothesize the expected impact ahead of time than you can use a duration calculator to determine for how long to run the test.

Finally, you want to add the duration of the test to your hypothesis. This will help to ensure that everyone knows that your results aren’t valid until the duration has passed.

If your traffic is sporadic, “how long” doesn’t have to be defined in time. It can also be defined in page views or sign ups or after a specific number of any event.

Putting It All Together

Use the following examples as templates for your own hypotheses:

  • Design x [the change] will increase conversions [the impact] for search campaign traffic [the who] by 10% [the how much] after 7 days [the how long].
  • Reducing the sign up steps from 3 to 1 will increase signs up by 25% for new visitors after 1,000 visits to the sign up page.
  • This subject line will increase open rates for daily digest subscribers by 15% after 3 days.

After you write a hypothesis, break it down into its five components to make sure that you haven’t forgotten anything.

  • Change: this subject line
  • Impact: will increase open rates
  • Who: for daily digest subscribers
  • By how much: by 15%
  • After how long: After 3 days

And then ask yourself:

  • Is your expected impact specific and measurable?
  • Can you clearly explain why the change will drive the expected impact?
  • Are you testing with the right population?
  • Did you estimate your how much based on a baseline and / or comparable changes? (more on this in a future post)
  • Did you calculate the duration using a duration calculator?

It’s easy to give lip service to experimentation and hypothesis testing. But if you want to get the most out of your efforts, make sure you are starting with a good hypothesis.

Did you learn something new reading this article? Keep learning. Subscribe to the Product Talk mailing list to get the next article in this series delivered to your inbox.

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May 21, 2017 at 2:11 am

Interesting article, I am thinking about making forming a hypothesis around my product, if certain customers will find a proposed value useful. Can you kindly let me know if I’m on the right track.

“Certain customer segment (AAA) will find value in feature (XXX), to tackle their pain point ”

Change: using a feature (XXX)/ product Impact: will reduce monetary costs/ help solve a problem Who: for certain customers segment (AAA) By how much: by 5% After how long: 10 days

April 4, 2020 at 12:33 pm

Hi! Could you throw a little light on this: “Suppose you hypothesize that the change will improve conversion rates by 10%, then if your change results in a 9% increase, your hypothesis fails.”

I understood the rationale behind having a number x (10% in this case) associated with “by how much”, but could you explain with an example of how to ballpark a figure like this?

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What Are the Elements of a Good Hypothesis?

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A hypothesis is an educated guess or prediction of what will happen. In science, a hypothesis proposes a relationship between factors called variables. A good hypothesis relates an independent variable and a dependent variable. The effect on the dependent variable depends on or is determined by what happens when you change the independent variable . While you could consider any prediction of an outcome to be a type of hypothesis, a good hypothesis is one you can test using the scientific method. In other words, you want to propose a hypothesis to use as the basis for an experiment.

Cause and Effect or 'If, Then' Relationships

A good experimental hypothesis can be written as an if, then statement to establish cause and effect on the variables. If you make a change to the independent variable, then the dependent variable will respond. Here's an example of a hypothesis:

If you increase the duration of light, (then) corn plants will grow more each day.

The hypothesis establishes two variables, length of light exposure, and the rate of plant growth. An experiment could be designed to test whether the rate of growth depends on the duration of light. The duration of light is the independent variable, which you can control in an experiment . The rate of plant growth is the dependent variable, which you can measure and record as data in an experiment.

Key Points of Hypothesis

When you have an idea for a hypothesis, it may help to write it out in several different ways. Review your choices and select a hypothesis that accurately describes what you are testing.

  • Does the hypothesis relate an independent and dependent variable? Can you identify the variables?
  • Can you test the hypothesis? In other words, could you design an experiment that would allow you to establish or disprove a relationship between the variables?
  • Would your experiment be safe and ethical?
  • Is there a simpler or more precise way to state the hypothesis? If so, rewrite it.

What If the Hypothesis Is Incorrect?

It's not wrong or bad if the hypothesis is not supported or is incorrect. Actually, this outcome may tell you more about a relationship between the variables than if the hypothesis is supported. You may intentionally write your hypothesis as a null hypothesis or no-difference hypothesis to establish a relationship between the variables.

For example, the hypothesis:

The rate of corn plant growth does not depend on the duration of light.

This can be tested by exposing corn plants to different length "days" and measuring the rate of plant growth. A statistical test can be applied to measure how well the data support the hypothesis. If the hypothesis is not supported, then you have evidence of a relationship between the variables. It's easier to establish cause and effect by testing whether "no effect" is found. Alternatively, if the null hypothesis is supported, then you have shown the variables are not related. Either way, your experiment is a success.

Need more examples of how to write a hypothesis ? Here you go:

  • If you turn out all the lights, you will fall asleep faster. (Think: How would you test it?)
  • If you drop different objects, they will fall at the same rate.
  • If you eat only fast food, then you will gain weight.
  • If you use cruise control, then your car will get better gas mileage.
  • If you apply a top coat, then your manicure will last longer.
  • If you turn the lights on and off rapidly, then the bulb will burn out faster.
  • What Is a Testable Hypothesis?
  • What Is a Hypothesis? (Science)
  • What Are Examples of a Hypothesis?
  • Scientific Hypothesis Examples
  • Six Steps of the Scientific Method
  • Scientific Method Flow Chart
  • Null Hypothesis Examples
  • Understanding Simple vs Controlled Experiments
  • Scientific Method Vocabulary Terms
  • Scientific Variable
  • What Is an Experimental Constant?
  • What Is a Controlled Experiment?
  • What Is the Difference Between a Control Variable and Control Group?
  • DRY MIX Experiment Variables Acronym
  • Random Error vs. Systematic Error
  • The Role of a Controlled Variable in an Experiment

How to Write a Hypothesis: 5 Important Pointers

I have wrongly assumed that my advanced education students already know how to write a hypothesis as I expected them to do so during my statistics class. In fact, I recalled that I asked them to formulate the hypothesis in fictitious situations during one of the major exams. I was wrong to assume that they already know how. Many of them do not know how to write a hypothesis even after giving them written examples in one of the course modules.

For those who pretend that they already know but not in reality, here is a refresher on how to write the hypothesis. Read on and be confident in writing the hypotheses anticipating the preparation of your research proposal.

A hypothesis is a pivotal cornerstone in the arena of scientific research. It’s a tentative explanation or prediction about a particular phenomenon that is yet to be tested . It is what sparks a research endeavour, setting the course towards discovering the unknown or further reshaping our understanding of what we already know.

Understanding what a hypothesis is and how to formulate one sufficiently equips individuals to delve into research processes skillfully with a clear direction in mind. More so, learning how to structure a hypothesis ensures that this inquiry framework is done satisfactorily and accurately.

Our discourse will center around understanding the concept of hypotheses, structuring a hypothesis, and providing concrete examples to enhance comprehension.

Table of Contents

The unifying concept of hypotheses, the indispensable role of a hypothesis in scholarly research.

An integral component that shapes the course of systematic research is the hypothesis. This initial posited explanation of a phenomenon, guided by preliminary observations, plays a pivotal role in conducting experiments, observations, and further inquiries. Solving a research puzzle without a hypothesis might compare to navigating an ocean without a compass; it provides direction and purpose to the exploratory journey.

The hypothesis is the initial posited explanation of a phenomenon, guided by preliminary observations.

A hypothesis emanates from the core of observation and deductive reasoning , supported by existing theories and insights. Its primary role is to establish a connection between two or more variables , stringing them together into an initial explanation to the problem at hand.

A Simple Example: Wilting Plants

To provide some context, let’s take an elementary level example: If a third-grade student aims to understand why the plants in his classroom are wilting, he could formulate a hypothesis, such as, “ The classroom plants are wilting because they are overwatered. ”

This hypothesis holds three principal constituents: the dependent variable (the wilting plants), independent variable (the amount of water), and the relationship between them. In this example, the student predicts that overwatering triggers the wilting response in the plants.

Characteristics of a Hypothesis

The art of crafting a hypothesis mandates precision and clarity. An obscure hypothesis holds the potential to steer the investigation into a fog of confusion; hence, specificity is the researcher’s best friend.

Pertinently, the hallmark of the hypothesis resides in its testability. A hypothesis must be designed such that it yields predictions which can be tested , thereby substantiating or refuting the initial assumption, taking the researcher closer to the truth.

The importance of a hypothesis in research extends beyond its role as an explanatory framework. It also serves as a checkpoint for relevance and scope , ensuring that researchers remain focused on addressing the initial query and do not saunter into irrelevant territories.

Moreover, the hypothesis also facilitates deductive reasoning by highlighting the expected outcomes , thus defining what must be measured and observed. Consequently, it assists in designing the structure of the research, deciding what data must be collected, and how it should be analyzed.

Fundamentally, one might label a hypothesis as the scientific method’s firstborn, providing direction, structure, and a basis for analysis. It strengthens the link between theory and observation, bringing coherence to the realm of research.

Despite its preliminary role, the hypothesis can make or break the research journey, attesting to its paramount significance in the pursuit of knowledge. Thus, understanding and valuing the role of a hypothesis is not just a scientific duty, but a dedication to the quest for wisdom.

How to Write a Hypothesis: 5 Important Pointers 1

5 Important Points on How to Write a Hypothesis

Beyond these fundamental components, the structuring of a good hypothesis carries immense weight towards achieving a valid and impactful research outcome. Therefore, careful attention to the building blocks of a successful hypothesis is essential. Here are five pointers on how to write one.

1. Must be simple

First and foremost, a robust hypothesis must be incisively simple. It should be aimed at addressing one query at a time ; attempting to encapsulate multiple queries in a singular hypothesis can lead to ambiguity, confounding results, and thereby compromise the clarity of the findings. Thus, excising any superfluity or removing the unnecessary statements or phrases allows for precise implementation and interpretation of research results.

2. Incorporates a cause-and-effect relationship

A sophisticated hypothesis should intuitively incorporate a ‘ cause and effect ’ relationship. It should not only identify the variables involved but also elucidate how these variables interact. This required interplay lends the hypothesis strength, providing researchers with a clear path to follow while studying phenomena.

When decoded, these relationships shed light on alterations in dependent variables as a direct result of fluctuations in independent variables. The causal relationship might hold the key in advancing some of the most profound understanding of natural and social phenomena. It provides the necessary scaffolding for making inferences about realities.

3. Falsifiable

Perhaps the most critical component of a good hypothesis, is its falsifiability . Even the most artfully constructed and compelling hypothesis falls short if it cannot be tested empirically.

A good hypothesis sets the stage for creating situations wherein the relationship between variables can be tested, measurements can be taken, and observations can be recorded. The very essence of scientific research revolves around the ability to refute or confirm hypotheses, pivoting on the axis of falsifiability.

Falsifiability spurs researchers to think critically about what kind of evidence could potentially contradict their hypothesis. This willingness to accept that a hypothesis could be disproved characterizes the humble pursuit of truth in scientific research, constantly reminding scientists that all knowledge is provisional, and subject to revision in the face of compelling contrary evidence.

4. Predictive in nature

The hypothesis should be predictive in nature, suggesting a probable, logical consequence that can be empirically observed under specific conditions. This predictive quality illuminates the path of research, guiding the search for unknowns. It determines the methodological decisions in the study and plays a crucial role in facilitating the scientific method, serving as a bridge between theory and reality.

Predictive capacity invites researchers to look forward, as they can make informed anticipations about the probable outcomes and results of their studies. By being able to predict, researchers can be better prepared to understand, interpret, and make use of their findings. It further strengthens the hypothesis-testing approach, acting as the engine that drives the evolution of knowledge.

5. Organic and adaptable

Finally, a hypothesis should be organic and adaptable. As research progresses, new data or insights may necessitate revisiting of the hypothesis. Good research is flexible and permits adjustment of the hypothesis to better align with emerging data.

An adaptable hypothesis pays tribute to the spirit of perseverance and curiosity that fuels the scientific endeavor. The process should be iterative ; as the findings continue to unfold, the hypothesis should be capable of rerouting itself in light of emerging understanding. Adaptability embosses responsiveness in the methodology, which, in turn, keeps the hypothesis alive and significant in the constantly metamorphosing landscape of scientific research.

In summary, an optimal hypothesis engages simplicity, defines cause and effect relationships, guarantees falsifiability, offers predictive value, and remains malleable to new insights. Bearing these tenets in mind while formulating a hypothesis can exponentially enhance the quality and outcome of scientific research, revealing a more profound understanding of the world around us.

how to write a hypothesis

Key Takeaways

Indeed, formulating a solid hypothesis is vital in the cycle of scientific inquiry. It does not simply signify an assumption or a wild guess but is an educated and well-informed conjecture that sets the trajectory of an investigation.

Gaining proficiency in constructing a hypothesis not only imparts clarity to the research process but also augments the ability to decode scientific studies. By recognizing how hypotheses are structured and understanding their function in research, one can engage more profoundly in scientific learning and possibly contribute to the expansive universe of knowledge.

Emulating the provided pointers on how to write a hypothesis can sharpen this mastery and serve as the launching pad towards scientific exploration and discovery.

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Hypothesis: Definition, Characteristics, Types, How to Write

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by  Antony W

June 26, 2024

hypothesis

A hypothesis may be an idea or proposal based on limited evidence, but it’s still an important part of a scientific method because it forms the core for future research. It tests the prediction about what your research will find, gives a tentative answer to your research question , but it hasn’t been through testing.

To be very clear, a hypothesis isn’t a standard guess. In addition to basing it on existing theories and knowledge, it should be testable. If you can prove it with direct testing, evidence, and facts, then it’s highly likely a good hypothesis to consider.

In this guide, you’ll learn everything you should know about hypothesis, including what it is, the types, and the right way to write a strong one.

What is a Hypothesis?

A hypothesis is a precise, testable statement presented in the beginning of a study. It is from a hypothesis that one gets a glimpse of the possible outcome of a research process. The hypothesis will propose a relationship between two variables, which can be either dependent or independent variables.

In most cases, you will have to write a hy p othesis in two forms: alternative hypothesis and null hypothesis because they’re experimental in nature.

A hypothesis can be either be accepted or rejected after being experimented against reality. So it’s important to assume there’s no difference between your studies when testing a hypothesis.

What are the Characteristics of a Good Hypothesis?

You now have an idea of what a hypothesis is. Now it’s time to know the main characteristics that describe it.

Below are the 5 major characteristics of a good hypothesis:

  • It is should be flexible to allow extended experiments and investigations.
  • A hypothesis should not be vague; it is supposed to be particular. With a specific hypothesis, researchers can express specific traits that define ideas.
  • One should be able to discuss the hypothesis in a simple and understandable terms
  • Includes relationship and variables (for relational hypothesis)
  • It should be accurate. A hypothesis that is accurate and clear sounds more reliable.

Where are Hypotheses Derived from?

The main sources of a hypothesis include patterns that affect the way people think, similarities in different circumstances, scientific hypotheses, current experiences, and observation from studies.

The 2 Major Types of Hypothesis

Talking of types of hypotheses, we only have two main types that you should know about to get this right.

1. Alternative Hypothesis

The Alternative hypothesis, designated in the character of H1, gives a glimpse of what to expect from your research.

There are two types of alternative hypothesis:

  • Directional hypothesis : A directional hypothesis will help you to gain an understanding of the relationship between variables. Directional hypothesis discusses what to expect in a study.
  • Non-directional hypothesis: A non-directional hypothesis won’t give you an idea of what to expect during a study.

2. Null Hypothesis

The null hypothesis is an opposing statement of what you expect from a study. In simple terms, it is the opposite of the alternative hypothesis.

Like the alternative hypothesis, the null hypothesis has a H0 notation, and it states that there’s no authentic connection explained in the hypothesis.

Both null hypothesis and alternative hypotheses bring jaggy illustrations of the topic matter. Also, their main goal is to provide examiners with particular guesses, which they can test in an investigation.

Apart from null and alternative hypotheses, we have other minor hypotheses. These are:

  • Complex hypotheses : A complex hypothesis points out the connection between two or more independent and dependent variables.
  • Research hypotheses : A research hypothesis tests for the connection between two or more variables.
  • Associative and causal hypotheses : An associative and causal hypothesis points out the connection between variables under the scheme when a commute in a variable inexorably changes the other variable. An associative hypothesis highlights the causes and effects of correlation between variables.
  • Simple hypotheses : A simple hypothesis shows the relationships between a dependent and an independent variable.

How to Write a Hypothesis

You now have an idea of what a hypothesis is, the types of hypothesis in scientific research, and the importance of a hypothesis.

To take this even further, below are the steps to write a strong hypothesis:

1. Define Your Research Query

The first thing you should always consider no matter the project you are working on is asking the right research question.

We would advise you to use a handful of words and not a block of long a sentence. To make your research question perfect ensure that is specific, manageable, and very clear.

2. Conduct a Basic Initial Research

Before coming up with assumptions you must collect some information and that is because a hypothesis is a prediction of expected results on research.

This is where you get answers to an investigation with the help of what you find out. The data you collect will be of much help because it will not only make logical but also intelligent guesses.

4. Formulate a Hypothesis

Find out what you are likely to find throughout your entire research based on your initial research and use it to make a precise and to-the-point hypothesis.

You can restate the statement in various ways and that depends on the type of assignment and hypothesis you find worth using.

5. Refine the Hypothesis

Doing clarifications is the last step of formulating a hypothesis. This is the part where you ensure your hypothesis points out connections between its variables, the variable is to the purpose and clear, it is valid and particular and it proposes a foreseen outcome of the research.

Final Thoughts

Formulating a strong hypothesis is not as easy, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get it right on a first attempt.

Here are some tips to help:

The first thing will be finding what is more interesting to you. The worst mistake most students or researchers do is picking a topic randomly. We are 99% sure that a topic picked randomly won’t come up with a good hypothesis.

Let the research you did guide you to put down your hypothesis while you keep it clear and direct to the point.

Cut your reader a slack by clearly defining your variables. Unclear variables make your hypothesis look sound terrible.

Consider writing your hypothesis an ‘if’ statement or ‘then’ statement. E.g. If this, then look forward to that as the result.  

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About the author 

Antony W is a professional writer and coach at Help for Assessment. He spends countless hours every day researching and writing great content filled with expert advice on how to write engaging essays, research papers, and assignments.

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What makes a good hypothesis?

Formulating a good hypothesis is the backbone of the scientific method.

Tibi Puiu

A hypothesis is a precise and testable statement of what a researcher predicts will be the outcome of a study. This usually involves proposing a relationship between two or more variables.

Verifying a hypothesis, also sometimes referred to as a working statement , requires using the scientific method , usually by designing an experiment.

For instance, one common adage is ‘an apple a day keeps the doctor away’. If we use this aphorism as our hypothesis then we can make a prediction that consuming at least one apple per day should result in fewer visits to the doctor than the general population that eats apples sparingly or never.

In 2015 , researchers at Dartmouth College, the University of Michigan School of Nursing, and the Veteran Affairs Medical Center in White River actually investigated this hypothesis. They combed national nutrition data collected from nearly 8,400 men and women — 753 of whom ate an apple a day. The study found that “evidence does not support that an apple a day keeps the doctor away; however, the small fraction of US adults who eat an apple a day do appear to use fewer prescription medications.”

So perhaps there’s a glimmer of truth to this hypothesis, but not necessarily because apples are some miracle foods. It could be that people who eat apples every day also consume other fresh produce and less processed foods than the general population, a diet that helps to prevent obesity, a huge risk factor for a myriad of illnesses such as hypertension and diabetes that require prescription medication. This is why hypotheses need to be defined as precisely and as narrowly as possible in order to isolate confounding effects.

Types of hypothesis

The ‘apple a day’ study is an example of an alternative hypothesis , which states that there is a relationship between two variables being studied, the daily apple consumption and visits to the GP. One variable, called the independent variable , has an effect on the other, known as the dependent variable . The independent variable is what you change and the dependent variable is what you measure. For example, if I am measuring how a plant grows with different fertilizers, the fertilizers are what I can change freely (independent) while the plant’s growth would be dependent on what it is given. In order for an alternative hypothesis to be validated, the results have to have statistical significance in order to rule out chance.

Examples of alternative hypotheses:

  • Dogs wag their tails when they’re happy.
  • The accumulation of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere raises global average temperature.
  • Wearing a seatbelt reduces traffic-related fatalities.
  • Students who attend class earn higher scores than students who skip class.
  • People exposed to higher levels of UV light have a higher incidence of skin cancer than the general population.

Another common type of hypothesis used in science is the null hypothesis , which states that there is no relationship between two variables. This means that controlling one variable has no effect on the other. Any results are due to chance and thus pursuing a cause-effect relationship between the two variables is futile.

The null hypothesis is the polar opposite of the alternative hypothesis since they contain opposing viewpoints. In fact, the latter is called this way because it is an alternative to the null hypothesis. An apple a day doesn’t keep the doctor away, you could propose if you were designing a null hypothesis experiment.

Examples of null hypotheses:

  • Taking an aspirin a day doesn’t reduce the risk of a heart attack.
  • Playing classical music doesn’t help plants grow more biomass.
  • Vaccines don’t cause autism.
  • Hyperactivity is unrelated to sugar consumption.

The acceptance of the alternative hypothesis, often denoted by H 1 , depends on the rejection of the null hypothesis (H 0 ). A null hypothesis can never be proven, it can only be rejected. To test a null hypothesis and determine whether the observed data is not due to change or the manipulation of data, scientists employ a significance test.

Rejecting the null hypothesis does not necessarily imply that a study did not produce the required results. Instead, it sets the stage for further experimentation to see if a relationship between the two variables truly exists.

For instance, say a scientist proposes a null hypothesis stating that “the rate of plant growth is not affected by sunlight.” One way to investigate this conjecture would be to monitor a random sample of plants grown with or without sunlight. You then measure the average mass of each group of plants and if there’s a statistically significant difference in the observed change, then the null hypothesis is rejected. Consequently, the alternate hypothesis that “plant growth is affected by sunlight” is accepted, then scientists can perform further research into the effects of different wavelengths of light or intensities of light on plant growth.

At this point, you might be wondering why we need the null hypothesis. Why not propose and test an alternate hypothesis and see if it is true? One explanation is that science cannot provide absolute proofs, but rather approximations. The scientific method cannot explicitly “prove” propositions. We can never prove an alternative hypothesis with 100% confidence. What we can do instead is reject the null hypothesis, supporting the alternative hypothesis.

It just so happens that it is easier to disprove a hypothesis than to positively prove one. But the supposition that the null hypothesis is incorrect allows for a stable foundation on which scientists can build. You can view it this way: the results from testing the null hypothesis lay the groundwork for the alternate hypothesis, which explores multiple ideas that may or may not be correct.

The alternative and null hypotheses are the two main types you’ll encounter in studies. But the alternative hypothesis can be further broken down into two categories: directional and nondirectional alternative hypotheses.

The directional alternative hypothesis predicts that the independent variable will have an effect on the dependent variable and the direction in which the change will take place. The nondirectional alternative hypothesis predicts the independent variable will have an effect but its direction is not specific, without stating the magnitude of the difference.

For instance, a non-directional hypothesis could be “there will be a difference in how many words children and adults can recall,” while the directional hypothesis could predict that “adults will recall more words than children.”

Hypotheses can be simple or complex. A simple hypothesis predicts a relationship between a single dependent variable and a single independent variable while a complex one predicts a relationship between two or more independent and dependent variables. An example of a complex hypothesis could be “Do age and weight affect the chances of getting diabetes and heart diseases?” There are two independent and two dependent variables in this statement whose relationship we seek to verify.

How to write a good hypothesis

The way you formulate a hypothesis can make or break your research because the validity of an experiment and its results rely heavily on a robust testable hypothesis. A good research hypothesis typically involves more effort than a simple guess or assumption.

Generally, a good hypothesis:

  • is testable, meaning it must be possible to show that a hypothesis is true or false, and the results of this investigation have to be replicable;
  • includes both an independent and dependent variable.
  • allows for the manipulation of the variables ethically.
  • has clear and focused language. Don’t be vague.
  • is related to other published research.
  • is written, either explicitly or not, as an “if-then” statement because we can then make a prediction of the outcome of an experiment.

An example of a testable good hypothesis is a conjecture such as “Students recall more information during the afternoon than during the morning.” The independent variable is the time of the lecture and the dependent variable is the recall of the information presented in the lecture, which can be verified with standardized tests.

A bad hypothesis could be something like “Goldfish make better pets than cats.” Right off the bat, you can see a couple of problems with this statement. What constitutes a good pet? Is a good pet fluffy and interactive or one that is low maintenance? Can I predict whether a cat or goldfish will make for a good pet? This is more a matter of opinion that doesn’t provide any meaningful results.

Often, the best hypotheses start from observation. For instance, everybody has witnessed that objects that are thrown into the air will fall toward the ground. Sir Isaac Newton formulated a hypothesis in the 17th-century that explains this observation, stating that ‘objects with mass attract each other through a gravitational field.’

But despite Newton’s hypothesis being very well written, in the sense that it is testable, simple, clear, and universal, we now know it was wrong. In the 20th-century, Albert Einstein showed that a hypothesis that more precisely explains the observed phenomenon is that ‘objects with mass cause space to bend.’ The lesson here is that all hypotheses are temporary and partial, they’re never permanent and irrefutable. This is also a good example of why the null hypothesis is so paramount.

Hypothesis formulation and testing through statistical methods are integral parts of the scientific method, the systematic approach to assessing whether a statement is true or false. All the best stories in science start with a good hypothesis. 

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Characteristics Of A Good Hypothesis

Characteristics Of A Good Hypothesis​

What exactly is a hypothesis.

A hypothesis is a conclusion reached after considering the evidence. This is the first step in any investigation, where the research questions are translated into a prediction. Variables, population, and the relationship between the variables are all included. A research hypothesis is a hypothesis that is tested to see if two or more variables have a relationship. Now let’s have a look at the characteristics of a  good hypothesis.

 Characteristics of

A good hypothesis has the following characteristics.

 Ability To Predict

Closest to things that can be seen, testability, relevant to the issue, techniques that are applicable, new discoveries have been made as a result of this ., harmony & consistency.

  • The similarity between the two phenomena.
  • Observations from previous studies, current experiences, and feedback from rivals.
  • Theories based on science.
  • People’s thinking processes are influenced by general patterns.
  • A straightforward hypothesis
  • Complex Hypothesis
  • Hypothesis  with a certain direction
  •  Non-direction Hypothesis
  • Null Hypothesis
  • Hypothesis of association and chance

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  1. 5 Characteristics of a Good Hypothesis: A Guide for Researchers

    What Are the Four Components to a Good Hypothesis. A good hypothesis typically consists of four components: Independent Variable: The variable being manipulated or controlled by the researcher. Dependent Variable: The variable being measured or observed to determine the effect of the independent variable.

  2. The 5 Components of a Good Hypothesis

    This process starts with formulating a good hypothesis. These Are Not the Hypotheses You Are Looking For. When we are new to hypothesis testing, we tend to start with hypotheses like these: ... The 5 Components of a Good Hypothesis. To make sure that your hypotheses can be supported or refuted by an experiment, you will want to include each of ...

  3. What Are the Elements of a Good Hypothesis?

    A good hypothesis relates an independent variable and a dependent variable. The effect on the dependent variable depends on or is determined by what happens when you change the independent variable. While you could consider any prediction of an outcome to be a type of hypothesis, a good hypothesis is one you can test using the scientific method.

  4. 5 Rules for Creating a Good Research Hypothesis

    5: Objective: Draft a measurable objective that aligns directly with each goal. In this article, we will focus on writing your hypothesis. Five rules for a good hypothesis. 1: A hypothesis is your best guess about what will happen. A good hypothesis says, "this change will result in this outcome. The "change" meaning a variation of an element.

  5. How to Write a Hypothesis: 5 Important Points

    5 Important Points on How to Write a Hypothesis. Beyond these fundamental components, the structuring of a good hypothesis carries immense weight towards achieving a valid and impactful research outcome. Therefore, careful attention to the building blocks of a successful hypothesis is essential. Here are five pointers on how to write one. 1.

  6. How to Write a Hypothesis w/ Strong Examples

    How to Write a Good Hypothesis. Writing a good hypothesis is definitely a good skill to have in scientific research. But it is also one that you can definitely learn with some practice if you don't already have it. Just keep in mind that the hypothesis is what sets the stage for the entire investigation. It guides the methods and analysis.

  7. Hypothesis: Definition, Characteristics, Types, How to Write

    Below are the 5 major characteristics of a good hypothesis: It is should be flexible to allow extended experiments and investigations. A hypothesis should not be vague; it is supposed to be particular. With a specific hypothesis, researchers can express specific traits that define ideas.

  8. What makes a good hypothesis?

    An example of a testable good hypothesis is a conjecture such as "Students recall more information during the afternoon than during the morning." The independent variable is the time of the ...

  9. Characteristics Of A Good Hypothesis

    An excellent hypothesis should be empirically tested. It should be presented and formulated only after thorough investigation and verification. As a result, testability is the most important characteristic of a good hypothesis. Relevant to the Issue A hypothesis would be considered good if it is applicable to a certain problem.

  10. Research Hypothesis: Elements, Format, Types

    Elements of a Good Hypothesis. Regardless of the type of hypothesis, the goal of a good hypothesis is to help explain the focus and direction of the experiment or research. As such, a good hypothesis will. State the purpose of the research. Identify which variables are to be used. A good hypothesis; Needs to be logical. Must be precise in language.