What is a hypothesis?

A hypothesis is fundamentally a proposed explanation or prediction that is grounded in preliminary observations or existing evidence. It serves as a starting point for further investigation and experimentation. In the scientific method, a hypothesis is formulated based on accumulated knowledge, allowing researchers to explore its validity through experimentation and data collection.

The strength of a hypothesis lies in its testability; it must be framed in a way that allows it to be supported or refuted through empirical data. This distinguishes it from a proven fact, as it has not yet been conclusively demonstrated, and from a widely accepted theory, as it is typically a more specific and narrowly focused statement. Additionally, unlike an assumption made without evidence, a hypothesis is always based on prior knowledge or observation that informs its creation. This framework establishes the groundwork for scientific inquiry and helps advance our understanding of various phenomena.