Introduction
Testing a hypothesis is a key step in research. It helps decide if a belief or assumption is correct based on data. Here are the main steps involved:
Steps in Testing a Hypothesis
- Formulate the Hypothesis: Make a null hypothesis (H0) and an alternative hypothesis (H1).
- Select the Significance Level: Usually 0.05 or 5%, which tells the risk of making an error.
- Choose the Test: Select a statistical test (e.g., t-test, chi-square) depending on data type.
- Collect and Analyze Data: Gather information and apply the chosen test.
- Compare Result with Critical Value: If the test value is more extreme than the critical value, reject the null hypothesis.
- Make a Decision: Accept or reject the hypothesis based on the result.
Conclusion
These steps ensure that the conclusions drawn from research are based on data and not guesswork. It helps make findings more reliable.