SH1806

Hypothesis
I. Purpose of Hypothesis

A hypothesis is a logical supposition, a reasonable guess and an educated conjecture that

provides a tentative explanation to formulated questions (Leedy and Omrod, 2014). It is used to
define the relationship of a variable to another variable. A formalized hypothesis forces the
researcher to think about what results s/he should seek in a study. Formulating a hypothesis is
not unique only in research. The human brain kicks in and instinctively comes up with
explanations to everyday occurrences. According to Baraceros (2017), there are five (5) reasons
why hypotheses are essential in any given study:

1. It guides the researcher on which factor of the study s/he should focus on.
2. It gives a proper avenue to prove that relationship exists between variables.
3. It guides the research in its proper direction and helps the researcher from veering away.
4. It gives structure to the researcher’s thoughts in the manner of summarizing the results and
elucidating the conclusions.
5. It encourages the researcher to prove the relationship of variables via empirical study.

II. The Null and Alternative Hypothesis

There are two (2) categories of hypotheses: the null and alternative hypotheses. A null hypothesis
is symbolized by Ho and the alternative hypothesis id denoted by Ha, H1, or Em. The null
hypothesis states the relationship between the variables. It somewhat disproves that the
independent variable has a direct reaction or effect to the dependent variable. However, an
alternative hypothesis is employed to challenge the null hypothesis by giving statements, which
claim that the independent variable does effect the dependent variable. The null hypothesis is
often tested first. Testing both should be empirical meaning it should be measurable to gauge if
there is really an effect or reaction between variables.

Notes:

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III. The Use of Variables in a Hypothesis

Variables are essential in formulating hypotheses. These variables give weight to the questions
hence a researcher can formulate a logical hypothesis. We have tackled variables on our previous
handout and now we will discuss how variables are important in coming up with a sound
hypothesis. Let us discus first the types of variables used in a study. According to Helmenstine
(2017), there are two (2) types of variables important to any given research: the independent
and the dependent variables.

The independent variable is the condition that you change in an experiment or study. This is the
variable that you can control. Its value is not affected and does not depend on the state of any
other variable in an experiment.

The dependent variable on the other hand is the condition that you measure in the experiment.
You test how it reacts to a change in the independent variable. It is also known as the responding
variable.

However, how can we tell the difference between the independent to a dependent variable? Well,
remember the dependent variable is the one affected by a change in the independent variable.
Example:

“In a study to determine whether how long a student sleeps affects test scores...”
(Helmenstine, 2017)

Let us dissect the passage.

Independent Variable Length of time spent sleeping

Dependent Variable Test scores

Remember that common sense plays a huge factor in differentiating independent from dependent
variables. The above example makes sense, but if the researcher accidentally made an error, this
could result in a very negative way. Let us say, the independent variable becomes the dependent
variable and vice-versa:

Student test scores affects how long s/he sleeps.

The above sentence did not make sense since there was an error in identifying the correct
variables.

When a researcher successfully identifies which variables are independent or dependent it will
become easy to formulate a hypothesis. Using the examples above, we can create a sound
hypothesis:

Students who gets enough hours of sleep will perform better in their tests as compared to
those who get less sleep.

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IV. Characteristics of a Well Formulated Hypothesis

A formulated hypothesis should be empirical in statement. It should be observable by the five

(5) senses. Hypothesis should be plausible, meaning it should be based on sound logic and
reasonable. It should be specific in identifying the variables clearly. It should be consistent with
how it should be tested. If a certain test is ascertained by the researcher, s/he should stick to it
and record the results. A good, well-formulated hypothesis is testable. Data needed for testing
if the hypothesis is true or not should exist and be obtainable (Clamor-Tornero & Torneo, 2017).

According to Baraceros (2017), in order for us to write a well-formulated hypothesis, the

guidelines below should be followed.

1. Hypotheses should be written in declarative sentences.

2. Theories, known facts, prior studies, and personal experiences should support the hypothesis.
3. The research problem and the hypothesis should have a logical link.
4. The hypothesis should foresee the nature of affiliation between variables.
5. Make sure that the hypothesis is capable of being tested and measured.
6. Use clear and specific language in stating the hypothesis in order to avoid wordiness.

References:
Baraceros, E. (2016). Practical Research 2. Manila: Rex Bookstore Inc.
Clamor-Torneo, H. & Torneo, A. (2017). Practical Research 2. Quezon City: Sibs Publishing House Inc.
Helmenstine, A. M. (2017, November 02). Examples of independent and dependent variables.
Retrieved March 27, 2018 from https://www.thoughtco.com/independent-and-dependent-variable-
examples-606828
Leedy, P. D., & Ormrod, J. E. (2014). Practical research: Planning and design. Harlow, Essex:
Pearson Education.
Uy, C., Cabauatan, R., De Castro, B., & Grajo, J. (2016). Practical research 2. Quezon City: Vibal Group, Inc.

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