Which sequence outlines steps of the scientific method: ask a question, formulate a hypothesis, design a study, collect data, analyze results, interpret findings, and report conclusions?

Which sequence outlines steps of the scientific method: ask a question, formulate a hypothesis, design a study, collect data, analyze results, interpret findings, and report conclusions?

• A. Scientific method
• B. Integrated approach
• C. Subfields of psychology
• D. Career pathways in psychology

Answer: (A)

Understanding the scientific method as a step-by-step process from asking a question to reporting conclusions is what this item assesses. This sequence begins with a question that identifies a problem to be explored, then moves to formulating a testable hypothesis that makes a specific prediction. Designing a study sets up the plan and controls needed to test that prediction, followed by collecting data to gather the actual evidence. Analyzing results turns those data into meaningful findings, and interpreting findings connects them back to the original question, considering alternative explanations and study limitations. Finally, reporting conclusions communicates what was learned, enabling others to evaluate, replicate, or extend the work. This flow embodies empirical investigation and the movement from inquiry to evidence-based interpretation and communication. The other options refer to broader ideas that are not about a fixed investigative sequence: an integrated approach describes combining methods or perspectives, while subfields and career pathways denote areas of study and professional tracks, not the procedural steps of inquiry.

Understanding the scientific method as a step-by-step process from asking a question to reporting conclusions is what this item assesses. This sequence begins with a question that identifies a problem to be explored, then moves to formulating a testable hypothesis that makes a specific prediction. Designing a study sets up the plan and controls needed to test that prediction, followed by collecting data to gather the actual evidence. Analyzing results turns those data into meaningful findings, and interpreting findings connects them back to the original question, considering alternative explanations and study limitations. Finally, reporting conclusions communicates what was learned, enabling others to evaluate, replicate, or extend the work. This flow embodies empirical investigation and the movement from inquiry to evidence-based interpretation and communication. The other options refer to broader ideas that are not about a fixed investigative sequence: an integrated approach describes combining methods or perspectives, while subfields and career pathways denote areas of study and professional tracks, not the procedural steps of inquiry.