We can characterize the scientific method for exploring the world as follows.

• Assemble the relevant evidence (data).

• Develop a hypothesis (idea, mechanism) which explains the data.

• Test the hypothesis for self-consistency and against the data.

  • Refine the hypothesis ...

  • Test the hypothesis for self-consistency and against the data.

    • Refine the hypothesis ...

    • Test the hypothesis for self-consistency and against the data.

      • Refine the hypothesis ...

      • Test the hypothesis for self-consistency and against the data.

• Establish a theory which explains the data and predicts future observations.

Whenever you examine a situation, develop a story to explain it, and decide what will happen next, you are using the scientific method. It is often helpful to draw a picture, to help you to visualize the movement and interaction of various bodies. When in doubt, sketch!

Let us now take a look at some fascinating examples of the use of the scientific method throughout history, by non-traditional scientists who changed the world around them.