In the scientific method, what immediately follows a prediction?

• A. an experiment
• B. data collection
• C. a conclusion
• D. a test

Answer: (D)

After you make a prediction, the next step is to test it. A prediction is a forecast about what will happen if the hypothesis is correct under certain conditions. To see if that forecast holds, you perform a test—an action that gathers evidence about whether the prediction is supported. During this test you might run an experiment or another controlled check to observe outcomes and collect data. Only after you have results do you analyze the data and draw a conclusion. An experiment is a common way to conduct the test, but the immediate step following the prediction is to test it to verify whether the prediction is accurate.