A hypothesis is a educated guess or a proposed explanation for a phenomenon or problem. It’s a statement that:

1. Identifies a relationship between variables.
2. Predicts an outcome.
3. Can be tested and verified.

Key characteristics:

1. Specific: Clearly defines the expected outcome.
2. Testable: Can be proven or disproven through experimentation or data analysis.
3. Falsifiable: Allows for the possibility of being proven wrong.
4. Based on existing knowledge: Builds upon previous research or observations.

Types of hypotheses:

1. Null hypothesis (H0): States no effect or no difference.
2. Alternative hypothesis (H1): States an effect or difference.
3. Directional hypothesis: Predicts the direction of the effect.
4. Non-directional hypothesis: Doesn’t predict the direction.

Example:

Question: Does regular exercise improve cognitive function in older adults?

Hypothesis: “Regular exercise will improve cognitive function in older adults.”

Null hypothesis (H0): “Regular exercise has no effect on cognitive function in older adults.”

Alternative hypothesis (H1): “Regular exercise improves cognitive function in older adults.”

The scientific method involves:

1. Formulating a hypothesis.
2. Testing the hypothesis through experimentation or data analysis.
3. Analyzing results.
4. Drawing conclusions.
5. Refining or revising the hypothesis based on findings.