Many people might not know what a hypothesis is, the purpose of a hypothesis or where a hypothesis is needed. A hypothesis is a statement that explains the research’s predictions and the reasons behind the research. It is an “educated guess” of the final result of the research problem and is written for an academic research paper. A good hypothesis is carefully stated as a key aspect of the scientific method, yet even the simplest ones can be difficult to explain.
If you are unaware of the process of writing a hypothesis, we are here to help you with all your queries. Read the article and learn how to write a hypothesis for your academic paper/thesis.
Table of Contents
- What Is a Hypothesis?
- Types of Hypotheses
- Writing a Good Hypothesis – Points to Remember
- How to Write a Hypothesis
- Frequently Asked Questions on How to Write a Hypothesis
What Is a Hypothesis?
A hypothesis is prepared in the early stages of a research project. Based on the preliminary research observations, a hypothesis is framed. It is the prediction of the end result of the research problem. For example, suppose you have observed that the plants grow up better with regular watering. In that case, your hypothesis can be “Plants grow better with regular watering”. Once you have got your hypothesis, you can begin the experiments required to support and prove it.
A hypothesis must include variables. It can be some events, objects or concepts which are to be observed and tested for your research experiments. There are two kinds of variables – dependent variables and independent variables. The independent variables are the ones which can be modified in the experiment, and the dependent variables are the ones which can only be observed.
Hypotheses are a crucial part of the research paper since they influence the direction and arrangement of the research methods. The readers will want to know if the hypothesis was proven right or wrong, and therefore it must be mentioned clearly in the introduction or the abstract of the paper.
Types of Hypotheses
Depending on the nature of the research and the findings, the hypothesis can be categorised into one or more of the seven major categories.
1. Simple Hypothesis
A simple hypothesis states the relationship between the two variables (dependent and independent variables).
2. Complex Hypothesis
A complex hypothesis entails the existence of a relationship between two or more variables. It can be two dependent variables and one independent variable or vice versa.
3. Null Hypothesis
A null hypothesis is a statement that states that the variables have no relationship.
4. Alternative Hypothesis
The null hypothesis is the polar opposite of the alternative hypothesis. It states that the two variables under study have a link (one variable has an effect on the other).
5. Logical Hypothesis
In the absence of verifiable proof, a logical hypothesis indicates a relationship between variables. Assertions are based on inference or logic rather than evidence.
6. Empirical Hypothesis
An empirical hypothesis, often known as a “working hypothesis,” is one that is being researched right now. Empirical hypotheses, unlike logical assumptions, are supported by evidence.
7. Statistical Hypothesis
When you test a sample of a population and then use the collected statistical evidence to draw conclusions about the full population, you’ve generated a statistical hypothesis. You test a section of it and then make an educated guess about the rest based on the results.
Writing a Good Hypothesis – Points to Remember
A good hypothesis is written following the same format and guidelines. To write a good hypothesis, the below-mentioned information has to be added.
Causes and Effects: A hypothesis always includes a cause-and-effect relationship where one variable causes another to change or not change, depending on the type of hypothesis.
Measurable Prediction: Other than logical hypotheses, most hypotheses are designed to be tested. Before you commit to any hypothesis, make sure that it is experimented. Select a testable hypothesis involving an independent variable over which you can have complete control.
Dependent and Independent Variables: You can define the type of variables of your research for the readers.
Language used in a Hypothesis: Make sure to write the hypothesis in simple and clear language.
Adhere to Ethics: Before conducting your research, keep an eye on what you are experimenting with. Those hypotheses which are objectionable, questionable or taboo can be avoided unless they are absolutely necessary.
How to Write a Hypothesis?
A good hypothesis can be written in the following six steps.
Asking a Question
Arousing curiosity in the minds of the readers can be a good way to start a hypothesis. It would make the readers think about the topic critically.
Conducting a Preliminary Research
Before writing the hypothesis, it is essential to get background information regarding the topic. The preliminary research can be done through various web searches, reading books, etc.
Defining the Variables
After you have decided on your hypothesis, you can now decide on your variables. Keep in mind that the independent variables are the ones over which you have complete control and accordingly decide the limits of your hypothesis.
Writing the Hypothesis in the “if-then” Statement
While writing a hypothesis, keep in mind that it must be written in an “if-then” format statement which is a reliable method of expressing the causes and effects. A simple example would be, “If we water the plants daily, then they might grow really well.”
Collection of Adequate Data to Back the Hypothesis
A hypothesis is written to reach the conclusion of the research. After writing the hypothesis, the experiments can be conducted. See to it that you collect the adequate data needed to support the hypothesis.
Writing with Confidence
After you have collected enough data, you can start writing the hypothesis. Make sure you write confidently, without any errors. It would be good to get your writing counter-checked by an expert if you are not confident about it.
Frequently Asked Questions on How to Write a Hypothesis
What is a hypothesis?
A hypothesis is a statement that explains the research’s predictions and the reasons behind the research. It is written based on various observations.
Why is a hypothesis important?
A hypothesis is important in an academic paper because it explains the result of the research problem. It will help the researcher, as well as the audience, to stay focused and not deviate from the main idea.
