What is the scientific method?

The scientific method is a systematic procedure for gaining knowledge about the natural world through empirical evidence. It involves making observations, formulating a testable hypothesis, and then performing controlled experiments or further observations to test it. Data from these tests either support or refute the hypothesis, leading to refinement or new hypotheses. Critical features include reproducibility (others can repeat the experiment) and falsifiability (hypotheses must be testable). In summary: scientists iteratively hypothesize and experiment, using evidence and statistics to draw conclusions. This method underpins reliable scientific knowledge.