UGCNET Questions

A hypothesis expresses a researcher’s expectation about how two or more variables are related in the population. It is tentative because it may be supported or rejected after empirical testing. It is testable because it is stated in terms of observable variables that can be measured. By predicting direction or type of relationship, it guides the choice of design and statistical analysis.

Option A:
Option A is correct as it captures both tentative and testable nature and mentions prediction of relationships.

Option B:
Option B incorrectly treats the hypothesis as a final conclusion, whereas conclusions are drawn only after hypotheses are tested with data.

Option C:
Option C calls it a vague idea, but a proper hypothesis must be precise and operational, otherwise it cannot be tested scientifically.

Option D:
Option D confuses hypothesis with sampling details, which belong to the methodology section, not to conceptual predictions about variables.

A hypothesis expresses an expected relationship between two or more variables in a form that can be empirically tested. It guides the selection of design, tools and analysis methods. Being tentative, it may be accepted or rejected based on evidence. Thus, the central role of a hypothesis in quantitative research is to provide a clear, testable prediction that structures the investigation.

Option A:
Option A describes the hypothesis as vague, which contradicts the requirement that it should be specific and operational. A vague statement does not guide the research effectively.

Option B:
Option B accurately portrays the hypothesis as both tentative and testable. It recognizes the predictive and directional function in relation to variables. This matches the standard definition used in research methodology courses.

Option C:
Option C claims that hypotheses ensure no variables are measured, which is nonsensical. In fact, hypotheses explicitly involve variables that must be measured in order to test the prediction.

Option D:
Option D assumes that hypotheses guarantee confirmation of personal beliefs, which is contrary to scientific attitude. Research may support or refute the hypothesis; both outcomes are valuable for knowledge.