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Ask a Question
The first step in every scientific experiment is asking a question about something you have observed. Try to ask a question that can be answered with a measurement or number so you can apply the six steps of the scientific method to research and observe it.
Do Your Research
At this stage in the experiment you will be able to narrow down the scope of your question and prepare a list of what you will need for the rest of your experiment. Research on practical issues like equipment and budget are also a part of this step.
Form a Hypothesis
A hypothesis is an educated guess at what the results of your experiment will be. Some of the research you did earlier will help you formulate a realistic hypothesis for which you can design an experiment.
Create and Conduct Your Experiment
Design an experiment that will test your hypotheses and allow you to measure the results. To make sure the experiment is fair, change one condition at a time while keeping the other factors the same. Repeat the experiment several times to test the consistency of the results.
Observe and Analyze
This is the most crucial of the six steps in which you record your observations during the course of the experiment. Some scientists will return to the second step at this point and formulate a new hypothesis.
Conclude and Report
After meticulous observation and recording you are ready to draw a scientific conclusion to answer the question you asked in the very first step. Gauge how accurate (or inaccurate) your hypothesis was and why. Whether a student at a science fair or a tenured professor, it is important that you present or publish your findings.