Dr. Ripley is testing a new drug to treat depression. She predicts “Drug X will improve depressive symptoms in adults who take it for 12 weeks.” In order to make sure her clinical trial is accurate, she will use the scientific method. Which of the following is NOT a step in the scientific method?
Explanation
Answer: B - The scientific method consists of steps designed to ensure that data collected during an experiment is empirical. First, the researcher must ask a question and conduct background research to see what is already known about the topic. Next, a hypothesis, or research question, must be constructed. Next, the hypothesis is tested by an experiment. Finally, the data is analyzed and the findings are communicated.
