HYPOTHESIS
A hypothesis (plural hypotheses) is a precise, testable statement of what the researcher(s) predict will be the outcome of the study. It is stated at the start of the study.
This usually involves proposing a possible relationship between two variables: the independent variable (what the researcher changes) and the dependent variable (what the research measures).
In research, there is a convention that the hypothesis is written in two forms, the null hypothesis, and the alternative hypothesis (called the experimental hypothesis when the method of investigation is an experiment).
NATURE OF HYPOTHESIS:
A good Hypothesis must possess the following characteristics – 1.It is never formulated in the form of a question. 2.It should be empirically testable, whether it is right or wrong. 3.It should be specific and precise. 4.It should specify variables between which the relationship is to be established.
- The resemblance between the phenomenon.
- Observations from past studies, present-day experiences and from the competitors.
- Scientific theories.
- General patterns that influence the thinking process of people.