How to Write a Hypothesis for a Research Paper

A hypothesis is an idea that is proposed for the sake of argument and subsequent checking. It serves as a declaration of the precise nature of the study's findings. A hypothesis often suggests a relationship between two variables: an independent and a dependent. The first one is the one that the researchers change. The second is measured by experiments and other processes. More details are provided below.

Types and Examples of Hypotheses

You must become familiar with a hypothesis’ sorts and characteristics in order to properly formulate one. As a rule, you need to start by asking a question. It is explored through in-depth research. Everything depends on the chosen topic. For example, a study of the psychological type is conducted. In this case, the hypothesis may be the effect of the environment on a certain reaction or behavior in general.

On the one hand, everything is as simple as possible. On the other hand, you need to go into the nuances to eliminate mistakes. You can always go to the essay writing service, where there are many examples for you to consider. Examine how hypotheses are drafted so that you don’t waste time reworking them. Also, take into account their main types.

Simple Hypothesis

It predicts a relation that can occur between two variables. Here we are talking about the dependent and independent elements in the work that is carried out. It is the simplest form of a hypothesis. For example: eating candy and cakes leads to weight gain.

Complex Hypothesis

Complex hypotheses are somewhat modified. Here you need to find a connection between two or more dependent variables and an equal number of independent variables. For example, obese people who crave happiness will lose weight and enjoy life more probably than estranged individuals.

Empirical Hypothesis

The element is used when an experiment or certain observation is conducted to test it. It is no longer a simple guess but a formulation backed up by real information. For example, after taking calcium-containing drugs, your nails and hair are stronger than after using vitamin K.

Null Hypothesis

It is used when there is a lack of information and when there is no obvious relationship between the two variables. For example, my behavior is the same whether I sleep 6 hours or 8 hours.

Alternative Hypothesis

The element exists at all times, regardless of your objectives. It is necessary to refute the null hypothesis, which was discussed above. For example, my behavior improves if I get up early or go to bed on time.

Logical Hypothesis

Here you need to explain how the evidence will be processed. The element aims to test existing theories. For example, thorns grow faster than daisies on Mars.

Static Hypothesis

Here we are talking about a study of a sample of the population. The analysis uses data that is collected in a specific area. For example, about 80% of Australia’s population spends time in casinos.

Basic Steps in Writing a Hypothesis

If you need to write a hypothesis, follow the basic tips. Going one step after another, you will easily accomplish the task. The hypothesis will be solid and brief, which is essential for providing quality information in the paper.

Ask the Basic Question

Start with the research question that you want to eventually get an answer to. It should be clear and concise, and appropriate to your project. In addition, your question must be relevant to the topic of your research paper.

Do Your Research

Gather the necessary information to think through the answer. Here you should use data that is relevant to the topic of the project. You will spend a lot of time, but you will end up reviewing the available theories and making more accurate hypotheses.

Formulate a Hypothesis

Once you have gathered all the information, think about what you want to find. At the same time, make sure you have a clear and concise answer. Also, think about which independent variable will affect participants in the experiment and what to expect in the end.

Clarify the Hypothesis

This step is to make sure that the hypothesis is correct and open to checking. Moreover, this is where you can refine it. Clearly define the concepts of all terms used, whether they are variables, embedded groups, or the probable outcome of the analysis.

Formulate the Same Hypothesis with Three Different Variants

Try to create a hypothesis from three different perspectives. This will allow you to choose the most appropriate option depending on the type. Some of the basic techniques include:

  • predicting a result using the expression "if…, then". The first part introduces the independent variable, and the second is for the dependent one;
  • indicating a specific relationship between the variables. It is used in studies of academic type;
  • description of the expected difference. The option is relevant for comparisons.

Think about which of the above methods will best reflect your question. Then, decide on an option and implement it in your work. Do your best to get the highest grade.

Conclusions

The hypothesis is part of your research. As such, it must be strictly appropriate to the chosen topic. Be precise and concise in your formulation, and identify the dependent/independent variables. The work requires quite a lot of time. But the result will be impressive if you do it correctly. Just familiarize yourself with the basic types of hypotheses and think about which one is appropriate for the task. It is even better to create formulations in different ways so that you end up finding the right version that reflects the essence of your question.