The Scientific Method.

Hypotheses.

1) Scientists try to explain things. They start by observing something they don't understand.

2) Then they come up with a hypothesis - a possible explanation of what they've observed.

3) Then they test if it's right or not. They make a prediction based on it and by gathering evidence from investigations. If evidence from experiments backs up a prediction, you're closer to finding out if the hypothesis is true.

Testing A Hypothesis.

1) Scientists share findings in peer-reviewed journals or at conferences.

2) Peer-review - Where other scientists check results and explanations to make sure they're 'scientific' before they're published. This helps to detect false claims, this doesn't mean that findings are correct - just not wrong in any obvious way.

3) Once other scientists have found out about a hypothesis,…