Is There a Scientific Method?
Back to the main page/Back to the previous page

Is there a scientific method?

In other words, is there a set of defined steps one takes to solve a physical (or any other) problem. Clearly there is not (unless you subscribe to the "try everything" definition). Each problem (hopefully) provides means, by clues or intuition, to its solution. There are, however, some general stages of approach that guide our ordered progress in the research of a problem. These might be listed as¹ 1. Empirical Observation; 2. Discovery of the Pattern; 3. Formulation of a Theory; 4. Generalization of the Theory. The stages must be repeated and refined until a consistent theory emerges. For a more comprehensive definition of the scientific method, click here. You might also enjoy a link to a game where you can test your understanding of how science is done.