Writing a hypothesis

Dr Cheryl Lange

Writing a hypothesis

Distinguish

• your aim – what you are trying to achieve – put in the Introduction

from

• your hypothesis – a proposition that can be tested - put in Own work section

• Your hypothesis needs to be grounded in the research literature

Research question v hypothesis

A hypothesis derives from your research question e.g.

Question

• “What is the relationship between test anxiety and performance on complex cognitive tasks?” (what you want to find out)

Hypothesis

• Performance on complex cognitive tasks will be an inverted U-shaped function of the level of anxiety (a proposition that can be tested)

Hypothesis checklist

• Does it suggest the relationship between two variables?

• Does it specify the nature of the relationship?

• Does it imply the research design to be used to study the relationship?

• Does it indicate the population to be studied?

• Is if free of mention of specific measures/statistical tests?

• Is it free of unnecessary methodological detail?

Cone, JD, Foster, SL, 1996 Dissertations and theses from start to finish: Psychology and related fields,

Washington, American Psychological Association, p. 41

Searching for answers?

What are your questions?

•Drop in 1pm - 2pm during semester teaching weeks Reid Library Mon, Wed, Thurs & Science Library Tues & Fri

•Individual consultations – make your appointment and submit your draft at least 2 days prior to when you want your consultation.

•Lunch time workshops

Contact detailsPhone: 6488 2423 - Student Support Reception www.studysmarter.uwa.edu.austudy.smarter@uwa.edu.aucheryl.lange@uwa.edu.au