The next step involved in the scientific method is to formulate a hypothesis based on the observation. How can you do it? Try answering your problem or your research question.

In its simplest form, a hypothesis is an educated guess. It is a tentative statement that suggests a potential answer to a research question. It could be a possible explanation for an observed phenomenon, a proposed solution to a problem, or a potential correlation between variables. However, there are several conditions to meet for a well-formulated hypothesis. Among others, it should be:

• testable through experimentation and data analysis,
• falsifiable^[1],
• clear and specific,
• logically consistent with existing knowledge,
• including an independent variable and a dependent variable.

Let’s explore the characteristics of a well-formulated hypothesis one by one.

Testability

The hypothesis should be formulated in a way that it can be empirically tested through data collection and analysis. You should be able to design experiments, conduct observations, or analyze existing data to empirically test the hypothesis and generate evidence for or against it.

This hypothesis is testable by conducting field surveys in areas with varying levels of noise pollution and analyzing the relationship between noise levels and bird species richness.

Falsifiability

A good hypothesis is falsifiable, which means it can be potentially proven wrong or falsified using empirical data. In other words, there must be a way to test the hypothesis and find evidence that  refutes it.

This hypothesis is falsifiable because it is possible to conduct experiments or collect data that could show a detrimental effect of pesticide exposure on honeybee colonies and refute the hypothesis.

Clarity and specificity

A well-formulated hypothesis is clear and precisely states the relationship or phenomenon being investigated. This clarity and specificity help in designing appropriate research methods, collecting relevant data, and subsequent analysis.

This hypothesis guides researchers to investigate the impact of habitat fragmentation on plant species diversity. It clearly states the relationship between habitat fragmentation and plant species diversity. The hypothesis statement directs the researchers how the research could be conducted by selecting multiple forest sites with varying degree of habitat fragmentation and collecting plant diversity such as species richness and abundance data within each sample area. The relationship between the two variables can then be evaluated by applying statistical methods like regression analysis or correlation analysis.

Logical consistency

A well-formulated hypothesis should be logically consistent with existing knowledge, theories, or observations in the field. It should build upon existing evidence and be grounded in a sound theoretical framework.

This hypothesis is consistent with the known physiological responses of reptiles to temperature changes, such as influencing their reproductive behavior and nesting patterns.

Independent and dependent variables

In most cases, hypothesis statement should include clearly defined independent and dependent variables. The researcher manipulates or changes the independent variable that is believed to affect the dependent variable. The dependent variable will be measured or observed and it is expected to be influenced by the independent variable.

In this case, fish growth is the dependent variable being tracked, and it is believed to be affected by the independent variable, total suspended solids levels. The researcher manipulates different levels of total suspended solids to see how they affect fish growth.

It’s important to note that in some cases, there may not be a clear independent variable if the research is focus on describing a specific phenomenon or characteristic.

This hypothesis focuses on describing the presence or absence of the new species rather than examining a relationship between variables. The researchers conduct field surveys and collect plant specimens from the Borneo rainforest region. They compare the collected specimens with known orchid species and conduct morphological and genetic analyses. If the specimens exhibit distinct characteristics that differentiate them from known species, the researchers may conclude that they have discovered a new orchid species.

After constructing your hypothesis, you should define a set of research objectives that can be achieved for you to answer your research question. Research objectives are specific goals that outline the tasks or outcomes that a researcher aims to attain through their study. The SMART framework, which stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound, can help you define research objectives. Here’s a breakdown of each component:

Specific

Research objectives should address specific aspects of the research topic. Clearly state what you intend to investigate in your objective. It should be precise and focused, and avoid vague or overly broad objectives.

Measurable

Identify key variables or indicators that can be quantified or observed for your objectives. This is important because progress and achievement can be assessed through the output. It also facilitates data collection and subsequent statistical analysis.

Achievable

Research objectives should be realistic and attainable within the available resources, time frame, and constraints of the study. It’s important to set objectives that can be accomplished given the available means and limitations.

Relevant

The research objective should be relevant to your research topic. Aligned your research objectives with the research questions and hypotheses being investigated. It should be able to provide specific information that directly addresses the research question or problem at hand.

Time-bound

Research objectives should have a specific time frame or timeline for completion. This helps to plan and manage the research process effectively. Most of the time, the objective itself may not provide a specific timeline. Various factors, such as the complexity of the experiment and laboratory procedures, or the nature of the data collection and analysis, can be used to estimate the timeframe for the objective.

When defining your research objective, always check if it fit to the SMART criteria (see BOX 2.1) to ensure that your objective is clear, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound. This approach enhances the focus and effectiveness of the research study, leading to meaningful outcomes and contributions to the field.