What is a hypothesis?

• A. Description of the study variables
• B. Review of alternative research methods
• C. Prediction of the results of the study
• D. Statistical calculation of the probability of success

Answer: (C)

A hypothesis is a testable prediction about the relationship between variables or about an expected outcome of the study. It states what you think will happen under the given conditions and can be tested by collecting data.

This option is best because it explicitly predicts the study’s result, providing a clear basis for designing the experiment and analyzing the data to accept or reject the idea. It’s not just describing what will be measured (that would be describing the variables), not a review of different study methods, and not a statistical probability calculation. In practice, you might hypothesize that an enrichment intervention will reduce stress indicators in animals, and you would then measure relevant outcomes to see if the data support that prediction.