Scientific Method
Science is a process for building reliable knowledge through observation, hypothesis, prediction, experiment, and replication. The gold standard is a result that is reproducible by others, with transparent methods and quantified uncertainty.
- Variables: independent (changed), dependent (measured), controls (held constant).
- Measurement: SI units; report uncertainty and significant figures.
- Models: Simplify reality to make predictions; validated by how well they explain data.
- Peer review: Community check that weeds out errors and improves clarity.
Common pitfalls & how to avoid them
- Correlation ≠ causation: Use controls, randomization, and causal reasoning.
- Bias: Blinding, preregistration, and adequate sample sizes reduce bias.
- P-hacking: Define analyses in advance; report all outcomes, not just significant ones.
- Replication: Share data/code; independent replication builds confidence.