Scientific method

Definition
The scientific method refers to

"the various techniques used for investigating phenomena, acquiring new knowledge, or correcting and integrating previous knowledge."

Overview
Generally, the scientific method follows a six-step process:


 * Define the problem
 * Gather data
 * Form a hypothesis
 * Test the hypothesis
 * Draw a conclusion
 * Communicate the results.

Source

 * TC 2-33.4, at 2-9.