Hypothesis basic definition – UGC NET Question

A hypothesis is a provisional statement that proposes a possible relationship between variables which can be examined empirically. It guides the collection and analysis of data by indicating what the researcher expects to find. Because it is tentative, it must be subjected to testing and may be supported or rejected based on evidence. The stem clearly refers to such a testable statement, so the correct term is hypothesis.

Option A:
A hypothesis specifies expected relationships in a form that can be operationalised and statistically examined. For example, it might state that one teaching method will lead to higher achievement than another. This testable, tentative character distinguishes a hypothesis from broader, more established explanations and aligns exactly with the description given in the stem.

Option B:
A theory is a well-substantiated explanation of phenomena that integrates many findings and hypotheses into a coherent framework. Theories are broader and more established than individual tentative statements. Since the question emphasises a tentative statement to be tested, theory is too comprehensive to be the correct answer.

Option C:
A law is a statement describing a consistent, observable relationship that has been repeatedly confirmed, often expressed mathematically, especially in natural sciences. Laws are not tentative propositions in the same way hypotheses are; they are more stable generalisations. Thus, law does not fit the idea of a testable tentative statement in the stem.

Option D:
A construct is an abstract concept created for scientific purposes, such as intelligence, motivation or attitude. While hypotheses may involve constructs, the term construct itself does not mean a testable statement about relationships. Therefore, construct cannot complete the stem correctly.