What Is the First Step in the Scientific Process

question 29

Multiple Choice

What is the first step in the scientific process?

• A) designing an experiment
• B) choosing test subjects
• C) peer review of your study
• D) analyzing your data
• E) formulating a hypothesis

---

Definitions:

Natural Phenomena

Events or situations that occur in the natural world, independent of human intervention, such as weather patterns, geological processes, and biological functions.

Scientific Investigation

A systematic procedure that involves the collection and analysis of data to create new knowledge or validate existing knowledge.

Data Collection

The process of gathering and measuring information on variables of interest in an established systematic fashion that enables one to answer stated research questions, test hypotheses, and evaluate outcomes.

Hypothesis

A proposed explanation for a phenomenon, made as a starting point for further investigation, which can be tested through research and experimentation.