Analysing the results and drawing conclusions

Organising the results

After the experiment, the measurements are compiled into a table or a graph. This makes it easier to see whether there is a link between the parameter being tested and the observed effect.

Comparing with the hypothesis

The results are then compared with the original hypothesis. If the results confirm it, the hypothesis is validated for the time being. If the results contradict it, the hypothesis must be modified or a new one proposed.

Draw a cautious conclusion

A scientific conclusion is always cautious: it is better to say ‘the results confirm the hypothesis’ than to say ‘the hypothesis has been proven once and for all’. Further experiments may one day call it into question.

Example

Hypothesis: the warmer the water, the faster the sugar dissolves. After the experiment, the sugar dissolves in 10 seconds in hot water, compared with 40 seconds in cold water. The results confirm the hypothesis.

Beware of measurement errors

An isolated result that differs significantly from the others (an outlier) must be checked before being used in the conclusion, as it may simply be the result of a handling error.