How to Write a Hypothesis [with examples]

Table of Contents

A research hypothesis is a concise statement that aims to investigate the relationship between specific variables. It is an investigation or seeks to provide a tentative explanation of a phenomenon till it has been tested. In this article, we will cover the characteristics of a reasonable hypothesis.

Different Types of Hypotheses

The hypothesis can be categorized into different types.

Null hypothesis: A null hypothesis specifies that there is no relationship between two variables. In other words, a change in the independent variable will not cause any change in the dependent variable. H0 denotes it and is the opposite of what is stated by the alternative hypothesis.

Example: The number of practice sessions held for intermediary school students playing football does not affect their performance on match day.

Alternative hypothesis: This hypothesis posits that a significant relationship exists between the variables being studied. If the researcher manipulates the independent variable, it will result in a change in the dependent variable. This is the opposite of a null hypothesis.

Example: The number of practice sessions held for intermediary school students playing football has a positive effect on their performance on match day.

Directional hypothesis: Directional hypothesis predicts the direction of change in the variable due to the effect of the independent variable. It describes the nature of the change in one variable, such as greater, lesser, positive, negative, increase, or decrease.

Example: The addition of an extra layer of a software protocol decreases the spread of misinformation on social media servers compared to normal ones.

Non-directional hypothesis: Non-directional hypothesis only predicts a relationship or difference between variables. It does not indicate the direction or nature of such change. It is also known as a two-tailed hypothesis.

Example: The degree of wear and tear of vehicle tires can vary depending on the kind of climate they are used in.

Simple hypothesis: This hypothesis states that a relationship exists between an independent variable and a dependent variable.

Example: Maintaining a daily exercise routine in the morning can improve bone health.

Complex hypothesis: This hypothesis posits a relationship between three or more variables, such as two independent variables and a dependent variable.

Example: Having a daily routine of exercise in the morning increases bone health, improves concentration and memory, and reduces the chances of cardiovascular issues.

Casual hypothesis: Causal hypothesis suggests a cause-effect interaction between variables.

Example: Heavy smoking damages your lungs.

Associative hypothesis: This hypothesis shows variable inter-dependency. In other words, changes in one variable will cause changes in the other variable.

Key Characteristics Required for a Reasonable Hypothesis in Research

While formulating a research hypothesis, it is essential to ensure that it meets the following key characteristics:

It must be written in a simple, clear, and concise manner.
Ensure that subject-specific terms are clearly defined and understood.
It is based on a thorough literature review.
It must convey a cause-effect relationship
The dependent and independent variables must be clearly defined.
It should be straightforward to validate observable and testable results using a well-designed research approach.
It should not be ambiguous or inaccurate
It must have the potential of being proven wrong through testing.
It should be based on the research question.
It must take into consideration the population or sample of the research study.

How to Write a Hypothesis?

The following is a simple, step-by-step guide for PhD students and early-career researchers to help formulate a strong research hypothesis.

Research problem: The formulation of a hypothesis begins with identifying the specific research problem or question for your study. Form clear and focused research questions.
Literature review: Read comprehensively on the topic that you intend to research. Look at theoretical frameworks and contemporary debates in the field. This will provide you with an understanding and knowledge of where and what to focus on within the topic.
Identify the variables: The study’s variables, including the independent variable that the researcher manipulates and the dependent variable where the effect can be observed, must be clearly identified. Operationalize the variables so that they can be measured.
Formulate the hypothesis: Based on the research question and the literature review, formulate a clear hypothesis. Improve your hypothesis to ensure that it is focused and testable. Remember that the hypothesis should contain the variables under study, the sample, and the predicted outcome.

There are many ways you can phrase the hypothesis. Where variables need to be identified, you can phrase your hypothesis in an ‘if..then’ form where the first part refers to the independent variable and the second part to the dependent variable. When comparing two groups, the hypothesis can be framed in terms of stating what difference is expected between them. Generally, a hypothesis is formulated in terms of correlations or effects.

State the null hypothesis: A null hypothesis has to be formulated when you have to test your hypothesis statistically. As mentioned earlier, the null hypothesis states that there will be no relationship between the variables being studied.
Population and sample: The population or sample used for the study must be clearly defined.
Research methods: The next step is to select the relevant techniques, such as experiments, tests, and so on, through which you test the hypothesis.

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