How to Formulate a Hypothesis

Most of the time, you formulate a hypothesis when performing experiments or testing theories. The point of the hypothesis is to create a testable statement that you believe may be the result of what you’re testing or researching. A hypothesis doesn’t have to be correct; however, it should be based on prior observations. The whole purpose of your experiment or test will be to prove or disprove your hypothesis.

Instructions

1. Determine your test subject. This can be a science experiment, scientific theories, or any other project that the end result must be proven through a series of tests or research.

2. Decide exactly what you’re trying to prove or disprove. For instance, will plants grow better with tap water or rain water?

3. Determine the variables you will be testing. These variables will become part of your hypothesis.

4. Formulate your hypothesis based on prior observations or research. If you’ve never had any experience with the subject before, take an educated guess.

5. Write your hypothesis in the "If, Then" format. Use the word related in the If portion of the statement. This creates an independent and dependent variable. For instance, if nutrients in rain water are related to plant growth, then plants watered with rain will grow better than those watered by tap water.

Tips & Warnings

• Your hypothesis should tell you exactly what you are testing for without excluding any other possibilities. Think of a hypothesis as a flexible opinion.

• Be sure your hypothesis is written so that it is obvious you are testing two variables.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Explanation of Hypotheses