A hypothesis is a predictive statement based upon observation or
experience which can be tested through experiments in order to find out whether
it is true or not.A hypothesis is clearly stated without any ambiguity in order
to prove its accuracy through investigation. It is clearly described when the
results are stated in a dissertation. The hypothesis is significant:
·
in
distinguishing research objectives
·
in identifying
the main ideas
·
in connecting
literature review and thesis statement
Formulation
of Hypothesis
Hypothesis
is basically a measurable observation. If it is not measurable than it cannot
be formulated because there are least null chances to reject or verify it.
Hypothesis is formulated after passing through number of stages. The problem
statement when further elaborated turns into research hypothesis. A thesis
statement if formulated by combining the existing knowledge and the
researcher’s observation. This thesis statement after proper operationalization
is converted into a research hypothesis.
However
in order to formulate a best hypothesis a number of steps are involved:
1.
State your
problem
Clearly state the problem or statement. Ambiguous statements leads
to confusions. Which can affect the accuracy of the results. The problem should
be clearly defined, measurable and quantifiable.
2.
Initial Reading
After clearly stating the problem. The researcher is advised to
conduct initial readings. This reading helps in understanding the stance of the
researcher. Reading helps in identifying the existing work related to problem.
It helps in evaluating other people’s stance on the issue. It will also help in
understanding that how a better hypothesis can be formulated.
3.
Other’s Opinion
After studying and understanding the existing research the research
will be able to choose directions for his own research. Now the best strategy
is to discuss with other people. It will help in broadening the understanding
of the problem. Sometimes the hypothesis proved to be wrong. In order to avoid
such a situation the researcher should discuss with people. Other’s opinion
will help him in formulating a better hypothesis.
4.
Segmentation of
the Data
Divide your date into parts. Select few key words. Try to evaluate
your problem on the basis of these key words. Sometimes it happen that one key
word will not be satisfying your prediction. At that very moment another key
word will satisfy your thoughts. At that point it is important that the data
should be divided into key words. It would assess in designing a better
hypothesis.
5.
Self-analysis
of the Data
After collecting sufficient data analyze the data critically. While
analyzing your data following points should be kept in mind:
·
It should
fulfill the goal
·
It should be
testable
·
It should be
insightful
6.
Verification of
the Data
After analyzing the data take a verification test. Verification
test will help in analyzing the worth of the hypothesis. Following points are
noteworthy while evaluating the data:
·
Substantial
variations of the problem
·
Possible
solutions to the problem
7.
Evaluation of
the Data
After
verification of data the last step is to find out the validity of the data.
Whether it would be applicable or not. Once the validity is proved than write
down a hypothesis.