Certified Fire Investigator Practice Exam

Which of the following is NOT a step in the scientific method?

1. Collect Data

2. Test Hypothesis

3. Provide Conclusions

4. Analyze Data

The correct answer is: Provide Conclusions

In the context of the scientific method, providing conclusions is not typically listed as a distinct step. Instead, the scientific method generally emphasizes collecting data, analyzing that data, testing hypotheses, and making conclusions based on the findings. The proper progression through the scientific method includes formulating a hypothesis, designing and conducting experiments to test that hypothesis, collecting relevant data, followed by analyzing the data to determine if it supports or refutes the hypothesis. While drawing conclusions is an integral aspect of the scientific process, it is often seen as a natural outcome of analyzing data rather than a separate step. Thus, while conclusions are drawn after data has been analyzed, it does not stand alone as a distinct step within the systematic approach of the scientific method.