Hypothesis

What is Hypothesis?
A hypothesis is an assumption that is made based on some evidence. This is the initial point of any
investigation that translates the research questions into predictions.
It includes components like variables, population and the relation between the variables. A
research hypothesis is a hypothesis that is used to test the relationship between two or more
variables.
Example Hypothesis Statement: "Increasing daily fiber intake by 10 grams will result in a
significant reduction in LDL cholesterol levels in adults aged 30-50 years."
Characteristics of Hypothesis
• The hypothesis should be clear and precise to consider it to be reliable.

• If the hypothesis is a relational hypothesis, then it should be stating the relationship
between variables.
• The hypothesis must be specific and should have scope for conducting more tests.
• The way of explanation of the hypothesis must be very simple and it should also be
understood that the simplicity of the hypothesis is not related to its significance.
Types of Hypothesis:
1. Simple Hypothesis: It shows a relationship between one dependent variable and a single
independent variable.
For example – If you eat more vegetables, you will lose weight faster. Here, eating more
vegetables is an independent variable, while losing weight is the dependent variable.
2. Complex Hypothesis: It shows the relationship between two or more dependent variables
and two or more independent variables.
Example: Eating more vegetables and fruits leads to weight loss, glowing skin, and reduces
the risk of many diseases such as heart disease.
3. Non-directional Hypothesis: It is used when there is no theory involved. It is a statement

that a relationship exists between two variables, without predicting the exact nature
(direction) of the relationship.
Example: Changing fiber intake will significantly affect LDL cholesterol levels.
4. Directional Hypothesis: This hypothesis predicts not only that there is an effect, but also
the direction of the effect.
Example: "Increasing daily physical activity will lead to a decrease in body fat
percentage among adults
5. Null Hypothesis (H0) :It provides a statement which is contrary to the hypothesis. It’s a
negative statement, and there is no relationship between independent and dependent
variables. The symbol is denoted by “HO”.
• Example: There is no difference in LDL cholesterol levels between adults who increase
their fiber intake and those who do not.
6. Alternative Hypothesis (H₁ or Hₐ): The alternative hypothesis is the opposite of the null
hypothesis. It suggests that there is an effect, or there is a relationship between variables.
Example: Increasing fiber intake leads to a significant reduction in LDL cholesterol
levels in adults.
Functions of Hypothesis
• Hypothesis helps in making an observation and experiments possible.

• It becomes the start point for the investigation.
• Hypothesis helps in verifying the observations.
• It helps in directing the inquiries in the right direction.
• Guiding the Research Process
• Enabling Predictions
• Identifying Research Objectives
How to Develop a Research Hypothesis
Step 1: Identify the Research Problem or Question
Start by clearly defining the research problem or question you want to investigate. This could be
based on gaps in existing literature, observations, theories, or practical issues.
Step 2: Review Existing Literature
Conduct a thorough review of relevant literature to understand what is already known about the
topic. Identify theories, findings, and gaps in knowledge that can help inform the development of
your hypothesis.
Step 3: Specify Variables

Identify the variables involved in your study. Variables are measurable traits, conditions, or
characteristics that can change or vary. Specifically, determine:
Independent Variable: The factor you manipulate or study in your research.
Dependent Variable: The outcome or response you are measuring or observing about the
independent variable.
Step 4: Formulate a Hypothesis
Formulate a clear and specific hypothesis based on your research problem, literature review, and
identified variables. A good hypothesis should:
• State the expected relationship between the independent and dependent variables.
• Be testable through empirical research methods (e.g., experiments, surveys,
observations).
Examples:
Simple hypothesis: "Increased exposure to sunlight leads to higher levels of vitamin D in

humans."
Directional hypothesis: "Children who participate in regular physical activity will have lower
levels of obesity than children who do not."
Non-directional hypothesis: "There is a relationship between job satisfaction and employee

turnover."
Step 5: Consider Alternative Hypotheses
While formulating your hypothesis, consider alternative explanations or hypotheses that could
also explain the relationship between your variables. This helps in ensuring that your hypothesis
is well-grounded and comprehensive.
Step 6: Ensure Testability
Ensure that your hypothesis is testable using appropriate research methods and techniques.
Define how to measure or manipulate the variables to gather empirical evidence supporting or
refuting your hypothesis.
Step 7: Write and Refine

Write down your hypothesis in a clear and concise statement. Revise and refine it as needed to
improve clarity and specificity. Ensure that it aligns with the objectives of your study and
effectively addresses the research question

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What is Hypothesis?

• The hypothesis should be clear and precise to consider it to be reliable.

3. Non-directional Hypothesis: It is used when there is no theory involved. It is a statement

• Hypothesis helps in making an observation and experiments possible.

Step 2: Review Existing Literature

Step 3: Specify Variables

Independent Variable: The factor you manipulate or study in your research.

Step 4: Formulate a Hypothesis

Simple hypothesis: "Increased exposure to sunlight leads to higher levels of vitamin D in

Non-directional hypothesis: "There is a relationship between job satisfaction and employee

Step 5: Consider Alternative Hypotheses

Step 6: Ensure Testability

Step 7: Write and Refine

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