ABlue print of study
BFinal stage of research only
CIntensive field study
DThe only way to get at facts
Answer:
A. Blue print of study
Read Explanation:
A hypothesis is essentially the blueprint of a study. It serves as the foundational framework that guides the entire research process from beginning to end.
In research methodology, a hypothesis represents:
A tentative statement or prediction about the relationship between variables that can be tested through research
The starting point of any scientific investigation that provides direction and focus
A blueprint or roadmap that outlines what the researcher expects to find or prove
Why Option A is correct:
A hypothesis acts as the "blueprint of study" because it provides the structural foundation for research design
It determines the methodology, data collection methods, and analysis techniques to be used
Just like an architectural blueprint guides construction, a hypothesis guides the research process
Why other options are incorrect:
Option B (Final stage of research only): Incorrect - A hypothesis is formulated at the beginning, not the end of research
Option C (Intensive field study): Incorrect - This describes a research method, not what a hypothesis is
Option D (The only way to get at facts): Incorrect - While hypotheses help discover facts, they are not the only method; observation, experimentation, and other techniques also reveal facts
A well-formulated hypothesis is crucial for systematic and meaningful research, making it truly the blueprint that shapes the entire study.