What are processes involved in a scientific investigation?

Question

frostbite · Answer

$\Large \sf Planning:$
What was the question? This is probably by far the most important element, and the answer must be very specific (not just subject).

Next, How do the experiment look like?

Finally, how should the possible outcomes be interpreted? When the outcome is not pre-predicted and interpreted explicitly the experiment or question is wrong and must be reconsidered.

$\Large \sf Execution:$
Reproducibility - An essential prerequisite.
Documentation and journal.

$\Large \sf Analysis:$
Results - Signal to noise ratio, if necessary statistics. Are the data adequate? Are they safe for use?
Conclusions: Was the question answered? Was it the right question?

$\Large \sf Testing:$
Control experiments.
Boundary conditions? When will the conclusions not be valid?

$\Large \sf Description:$
Documentation of assumptions and execution. Clearly formulated arguments and conclusions.

These are the benchmarks of the otherwise diffuse construction for celebration speech "Scientific method".

The scientific method is number of pointers for use in the daily effort to become wiser.

lonnie2018 · Answer

Thank you! Could you help me with one more question?

lonnie2018 · Answer

Give me some scientific theories regarding the origin of life on the early Earth? This is what I have the most trouble on.

anonymous · Answer

1 Q per thread so others can help you better ;)