a proposed explanation or prediction for an observed phenomenon, relationship, or event that has yet to be confirmed. It is essentially the question a research study seeks to answer. Unlike a theory, a hypothesis is not yet supported by extensive evidence but can be tested through a well-designed research protocol.

A scientific hypothesis should be testable, repeatable, and falsifiable (capable of being proven wrong). While a hypothesis can be supported by data, it can never be absolutely proven correct, because new evidence or better explanations may emerge.