What exactly is a Hypothesis?
A hypothesis is a conclusion reached after considering the evidence. This is the first step in any investigation, where the research questions are translated into a prediction. Variables, population, and the relationship between the variables are all included. A research hypothesis is a hypothesis that is tested to see if two or more variables have a relationship. Now let’s have a look at the characteristics of a good hypothesis.
Characteristics of
Hypothesis
A good hypothesis has the following characteristics.
Ability To Predict
One of the most valuable qualities of a good hypothesis is the ability to anticipate the future. It not only clarifies the current problematic scenario, but also predicts what will happen in the future. As a result of the predictive capacity, hypothesis is the finest guidance for research activities.Closest to things that can be seen
A hypothesis must be in intimate contact with objects that may be observed. It is based on observation and does not believe in air castles. Those entities and objects that we are unable to view in order to formulate that hypothesis. The verification of a hypothesis is dependent on items that can be observed.Simplicity
“A hypothesis would be simple if a researcher has more insight towards the problem,” P.V. Young states. W-ocean said, “A theory should be as sharp as a razor’s blade”. As a result, a good hypothesis must be straightforward and devoid of complication.Clarity
A hypothesis must have a coherent conceptual foundation. It should be obvious from unclear data. Its terminology must be simple and understandable to everyone.Testability
An excellent hypothesis should be empirically tested. It should be presented and formulated only after thorough investigation and verification. As a result, testability is the most important characteristic of a good hypothesis.Relevant to the Issue
A hypothesis would be considered good if it is applicable to a certain problem. A hypothesis serves as a guide for identifying and solving an issue, thus it must be relevant to the situation.Specific
It should be written for a distinct and unique problem. It must not contain any generalizations. A hypothesis cannot achieve the correct conclusions if generalization exists.Techniques that are applicable
The hypothesis must be relevant to the testing methodologies available. Before forming a hypothesis, a researcher must be aware of the approaches that can be used.New discoveries have been made as a result of this.
It should be able to offer fresh ideas and ways of learning. It must generate new knowledge discoveries. “Hypothesis is the best source of fresh knowledge because it creates new ways of discoveries,” says J.S. Mill, a prominent scholar.Harmony & Consistency
Internal consistency and harmony are important characteristics of a successful hypothesis. It should be devoid of inconsistencies and conflicts. There must be a close connection between variables that are interdependent.Sources
The following are some hypothesis sources:- The similarity between the two phenomena.
- Observations from previous studies, current experiences, and feedback from rivals.
- Theories based on science.
- People’s thinking processes are influenced by general patterns.
Types
There are six different types of hypotheses:- A straightforward hypothesis
- Complex Hypothesis
- Hypothesis with a certain direction
- Non-direction Hypothesis
- Null Hypothesis
- Hypothesis of association and chance