Md Azizur Rahman

BSc. (Hons.) in Mathematics

4th year 1st semester

Jashore University of Science & Technology

Assignment-03(Research Methodology)
Question-01: Why do all these questions and answers on research methods have any relevance for
me?

Solution: Certainly! The discussions on research methods hold relevance for individuals due to the
following reasons:
1. Critical Thinking: Understanding research methods cultivates critical thinking skills. These
skills extend beyond academia and are valuable for decision-making, problem-solving, and
evaluating information.

2. Informed Decisions: Research methods empower individuals to make informed choices.

Whether it’s selecting a product, assessing news articles, or evaluating health information,
understanding research helps avoid misinformation.

3. Academic Context: For students, research methods are directly relevant. They form the basis for
conducting studies, writing papers, and engaging with scholarly work.

4. Professional Applications: In professional settings, research skills are essential. Analyzing

market trends, interpreting data, and solving workplace challenges all benefit from an
understanding of research methods.

5. Curiosity and Learning: Even if not directly involved in research, curiosity drives learning.
Exploring research methods broadens knowledge and encourages intellectual engagement.

Question-02: I have so many ideas I want to study; how can I decide which one is best?

Solution: When you have numerous ideas you want to study, it can be challenging to determine which
one is the best fit for your current situation and goals. Here's a step-by-step process to help you decide:
1. Brainstorm and list your ideas: Take some time to write down all your ideas in a notebook or a
digital document. Ensure you capture all the details and nuances of each idea.
2. Clarify your objectives: Define your short-term and long-term goals. Consider factors such as
personal interest, potential impact, feasibility, and alignment with your values. This step will help
you evaluate your ideas based on their relevance to your objectives.
3. Evaluate potential: Assess the potential of each idea by considering various criteria, such as
market demand, competition, scalability, resources required (financial, time, skills), and potential
risks. Research the existing landscape related to each idea to gain insights.
4. Prioritize and rank: Create a ranking system or a scoring mechanism based on the criteria that
matter most to you. Assign numerical values or use a scale to rate each idea. This exercise will
help you compare and prioritize your ideas objectively.
5. Seek feedback and advice: Share your ideas with trusted friends, mentors, or experts in the field
you're interested in. Listen to their perspectives, ask for feedback, and consider their insights.
Sometimes an external viewpoint can provide valuable insights and help you make a more
informed decision.
 6. Consider your resources: Evaluate the resources available to you, such as time, finances, skills,
and support network. Some ideas may require more resources than others, so take this into
account when making your decision.
7. Test and validate: If feasible, consider conducting small-scale experiments or prototypes for
your top-ranked ideas. This can help you gain practical insights, validate assumptions, and assess
the viability of the ideas in a real-world context.
8. Reflect on personal passion and motivation: Consider the level of passion and motivation you
have for each idea. Pursuing something you genuinely care about often leads to greater
satisfaction and dedication, increasing your chances of success.
9. Make a decision: After considering all the above factors, reflect on the information you've
gathered and make an informed decision. Remember that it's okay to start with one idea and then
explore others later, especially if circumstances change or new information emerges.
10. Take action: Once you've made your decision, commit to it and take the necessary steps to
pursue your chosen idea. Break down the larger goal into smaller, actionable tasks, and create a
timeline or plan to keep yourself accountable.
Remember, decision-making is a dynamic process, and adjustments might be necessary along the way.
Embrace the learning experience and be open to adapting your path as you gain more insights and
feedback.

Question-03: In beginning my research work, can I focus just on one tiny, little, narrow topic or
reach for the stars and be broad and general? And I know the library is a terrific place to start my
research work, but do I have to visit the bricks-and mortar buildings on campus or can I just work
remotely?
Solution: When beginning research work, one has the flexibility to choose between a narrow or broad
topic based on goals and project requirements. A narrow topic allows for in-depth exploration, uncovering
nuances and contributing to a specific area of knowledge. On the other hand, a broad topic enables the
exploration of various perspectives, theories, and trends, fostering interdisciplinary connections.

Accessing research materials can be done through different avenues. Physical libraries on campus provide
access to physical books, journals, and resources, with librarians offering on-site assistance. Online
library resources are offered by many universities, granting remote access to scholarly databases, e-
journals, and e-books. Public libraries and interlibrary loan services expand the range of available
resources, while online sources such as academic databases, digital archives, and open-access journals
provide a wealth of scholarly information.

The choice between visiting a physical library or working remotely depends on personal preference,
research nature, and resource availability. Many researchers successfully conduct their studies remotely,
leveraging digital resources for their research needs.

Question-04: What is null hypothesis, and why is it important?

Solution: The null hypothesis (often denoted as H0) is a fundamental concept in statistical hypothesis
testing. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Definition:
o The null hypothesis represents the status quo or the default assumption.
o It states that there is no significant effect, relationship, or difference between groups or
variables.
 For example, if you’re comparing two treatments, the null hypothesis might be that both
o
treatments have the same effect.
2. Importance:
o The null hypothesis serves as a baseline for comparison.
o By testing against the null hypothesis, we determine whether observed data provides
enough evidence to reject it.
o If we reject the null hypothesis, it suggests that there is a significant effect or difference.
o If we fail to reject it, we don’t have sufficient evidence to conclude otherwise.

Statistical tests help us make informed decisions based on data, and the null hypothesis plays a crucial
role in this process!

Alternative Answer(ChatGpt): The null hypothesis is a fundamental concept in statistical hypothesis

testing. It is a statement that suggests there is no significant relationship or difference between variables
or groups being studied. In other words, it assumes that any observed differences or relationships in the
data are due to random chance or sampling variability.

The null hypothesis is denoted as H0 and is typically formulated to represent the absence of an effect or
relationship. It serves as a starting point for statistical analysis, allowing researchers to assess the strength
of evidence against it. The alternative hypothesis (Ha or H1) represents the researcher's claim or the
possibility of an effect or relationship existing.

The importance of the null hypothesis lies in its role as a benchmark for making statistical decisions. By
assuming no effect or relationship, it provides a reference point against which the observed data are
compared. Statistical tests evaluate the likelihood of observing the obtained data under the assumption
that the null hypothesis is true. If the observed data significantly deviate from what would be expected
under the null hypothesis, it suggests evidence in favor of the alternative hypothesis, indicating a
meaningful effect or relationship.
The null hypothesis helps researchers:
1. Establish a clear research question or hypothesis to be tested.
2. Frame statistical analysis and guide the selection of appropriate tests.
3. Provide a baseline for comparison and determine the significance of observed results.
4. Objectively evaluate the evidence and draw conclusions based on statistical inference.
By systematically testing the null hypothesis, researchers can make robust and evidence-based
conclusions about the relationships and effects in their data. It ensures that statistical analysis is conducted
in a rigorous and objective manner, contributing to the advancement of scientific knowledge.

Question-05: What is a research hypothesis, and what are the different types?
Solution: A research hypothesis is a statement that proposes a relationship or difference between
variables. It is a testable prediction or assumption about the expected outcome of a research study.
Researchers formulate hypotheses based on existing knowledge, theories, or observations and aim to
investigate and provide evidence for their validity.

There are different types of research hypotheses based on the nature of the relationship or difference
proposed:
1. Directional or One-tailed Hypothesis: This type of hypothesis predicts the direction of the
expected relationship or difference between variables. It specifies whether the effect will be
positive (+) or negative (-). For example, "Increasing study time (+) will lead to improved test
performance."
 2. Non-directional or Two-tailed Hypothesis: This type of hypothesis does not specify the
direction of the expected relationship or difference. It simply proposes that there will be an effect
or difference, without indicating whether it will be positive or negative. For example, "There is a
difference in test performance between two groups."
3. Null Hypothesis: The null hypothesis (H0) assumes no significant relationship or difference
between variables. It suggests that any observed differences or relationships in the data are due to
random chance or sampling variability. It is often used as a baseline for comparison in statistical
hypothesis testing.
It's important to note that the research hypothesis is different from the null hypothesis. The research
hypothesis (alternative hypothesis, Ha or H1) proposes the expected relationship or difference, while the
null hypothesis (H0) assumes no effect or relationship.
The selection of the appropriate type of research hypothesis depends on the research question, prior
knowledge, and the specific aims of the study. Researchers carefully formulate their hypotheses to guide
their research design, data collection, and statistical analysis, allowing for a systematic investigation of
the proposed relationships or differences between variables.

Question-06: What is similar, and what is different, about a null and a research hypothesis?
Solution: The null hypothesis and the research hypothesis are two distinct statements in the context of
hypothesis testing:
Similarities:

1. Both hypotheses are statements about the relationship between variables.

2. They are formulated to be testable and are based on existing knowledge, theories, or observations.
3. Both hypotheses guide the research design, data collection, and statistical analysis.
Differences:
1. Null Hypothesis (H0): The null hypothesis assumes no significant relationship or difference
between variables. It suggests that any observed differences or relationships in the data are due to
random chance or sampling variability. It is often formulated as a statement of no effect or no
difference.
2. Research Hypothesis (Alternative Hypothesis, Ha or H1): The research hypothesis proposes a
specific relationship or difference between variables. It is the hypothesis that the researcher aims
to support with evidence. The research hypothesis can be directional, indicating the expected
positive or negative effect, or non-directional, simply suggesting the presence of an effect or
difference.
3. Comparison and Testing: The null hypothesis and the research hypothesis are compared during
statistical hypothesis testing. The statistical analysis aims to evaluate the likelihood of observing
the obtained data under the assumption that the null hypothesis is true. If the observed data
significantly deviate from what would be expected under the null hypothesis, it suggests evidence
in favor of the research hypothesis.
In summary, the null hypothesis assumes no effect or difference, while the research hypothesis proposes a
specific relationship or difference between variables. They serve different purposes in hypothesis testing
and are compared to assess the strength of evidence for or against the research hypothesis.
Alternative(from copilot):
1. Differences:
o Null Hypothesis (H₀):
▪ Assumes no significant effect or relationship.
▪ Often used for comparison.
▪ Example: “A new drug has no impact on pain relief.”
 o Research Hypothesis (Alternative Hypothesis, H₁ or Ha):
▪ Opposite of the null hypothesis.
▪ States an expected effect or relationship.
▪ Example: “The new drug reduces pain more effectively.”

Question-07: How can I create a good research hypothesis?

Solution: To create a good research hypothesis, follow these steps:
1. Identify your research objective: Clearly define the specific question or problem you want to
address or investigate.
2. Conduct a literature review: Review existing literature to understand the current knowledge,
theories, and findings related to your research topic.
3. Define key variables: Determine the central variables or concepts in your research question and
clearly define and operationalize them.
4. Formulate a research question: Develop a clear and focused research question that guides your
hypothesis formulation.
5. Determine the type of hypothesis: Decide whether your hypothesis will be directional
(predicting a specific relationship or difference) or non-directional (suggesting the presence of a
relationship or difference without specifying the direction).
6. State the hypothesis: Write your hypothesis in a clear and concise manner, ensuring it is testable
and measurable.
7. Ensure falsifiability: Make sure your hypothesis can be proven wrong if the evidence contradicts
it, as falsifiability is important for scientific inquiry.
8. Revise and refine: Seek feedback from mentors or experts in your field, and make necessary
adjustments to enhance the clarity, specificity, and testability of your hypothesis.
By following these steps, you can create a strong research hypothesis that forms the foundation of your
study and guides your research design, data collection, and analysis.

Question-08: What is the “Gold standard” of research methods?

Solution: The "gold standard" of research methods refers to the most rigorous and reliable approach for
conducting research, which is considered the benchmark or highest standard in a particular field. The gold
standard method is characterized by its ability to produce valid, reliable, and generalizable results. The
specific gold standard method can vary depending on the research area or discipline. Here are a few
examples:
1. Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs): In fields such as medicine and healthcare, RCTs are
often considered the gold standard. RCTs involve randomly assigning participants to different
groups (e.g., treatment and control) and comparing their outcomes. This method helps establish
cause-and-effect relationships and controls for potential confounding factors.

2. Double-Blind Studies: Double-blind studies are commonly used in various scientific disciplines,
including psychology and pharmacology. In a double-blind study, neither the participants nor the
researchers involved in data collection and analysis know which group is receiving the treatment
or intervention. This minimizes bias and ensures that the results are not influenced by
expectations or preconceived notions.

3. Prospective Cohort Studies: In epidemiology and public health research, prospective cohort
studies are often considered the gold standard. These studies follow a group of individuals over
time, collecting data on exposure to certain factors and tracking the development of outcomes.
 Prospective cohort studies provide valuable insights into the natural history of diseases and allow
for the examination of multiple risk factors.

4. Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses: Systematic reviews and meta-analyses are considered
the gold standard for synthesizing and analyzing research evidence. These methods involve a
comprehensive and systematic approach to identifying, evaluating, and summarizing relevant
studies on a specific topic. By combining the results of multiple studies, systematic reviews and
meta-analyses provide a robust and comprehensive overview of the available evidence.
It's important to note that the gold standard method can vary depending on the research question, field,
and context. Different research designs and methods have their strengths and limitations, and the choice
of method should be based on the specific research objectives and constraints.

Alternative(Copilot): The gold standard in research methods, particularly in medical research, is

the randomized controlled trial (RCT). Let me explain why it’s considered the gold standard:
1. Randomization:
o In an RCT, participants are randomly assigned to either the new treatment or a standard
(control) treatment.
o Randomization ensures unbiased estimates of treatment effects.
o Imagine a fair coin toss determining treatment allocation—it balances out individual
differences.
2. Comparison and Fairness:
o RCTs compare treatments directly.
o Patients in both groups have similar characteristics, minimizing confounding effects.
o Without randomization, we might mistakenly attribute differences to the treatment itself
or patient factors.
3. Blinding:
o Treatment allocation remains concealed from patients and doctors.
o This prevents bias and ensures objective assessment.
o Blinding enhances the validity of results.

In summary, RCTs provide robust evidence about treatment efficacy and safety. They’re like the referees
in a football game—fair, unbiased, and essential!

Question-09: Can you help me understand which method best fits which type of question being
asked?
Solution: Certainly! I can provide a general overview of different research methods and the types of
questions they are commonly suited for. Keep in mind that the choice of method ultimately depends on
various factors such as research goals, available resources, ethical considerations, and the specific
characteristics of the research question. Here are some commonly used research methods and their
corresponding question types:
1. Experimental Methods:
• Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs): RCTs are suitable for questions that aim to
establish causal relationships or evaluate the effectiveness of interventions or treatments.
They involve randomly assigning participants to different groups and manipulating
variables to assess their impact.
2. Observational Methods:
• Cross-sectional Studies: Cross-sectional studies are useful for questions that examine the
prevalence or distribution of variables at a specific point in time. They are often used for
descriptive research and identifying associations between variables.
 • Cohort Studies: Cohort studies are appropriate for questions that investigate the
development of outcomes over time and examine the influence of specific risk factors or
exposures.
• Case-Control Studies: Case-control studies are well-suited for questions that explore
potential causes or risk factors for specific outcomes. They involve comparing
individuals with a particular outcome (cases) to those without the outcome (controls) and
assessing their exposure history.
• Longitudinal Studies: Longitudinal studies are ideal for questions that require following a
group of participants over an extended period. They allow for the examination of changes
and relationships over time.
3. Qualitative Methods:
• Interviews: Interviews are valuable for exploring in-depth experiences, perceptions, and
subjective viewpoints. They are suitable for questions that seek to understand complex
social or individual phenomena.
• Focus Groups: Focus groups involve a guided discussion among a small group of
participants. They are useful for exploring shared experiences, opinions, and social
dynamics surrounding a particular topic.
4. Review Methods:
• Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses: Systematic reviews and meta-analyses are
appropriate for questions that aim to summarize and synthesize existing research
evidence on a specific topic. They involve a rigorous and systematic approach to
identifying, evaluating, and combining relevant studies.
Remember that these are general guidelines, and there can be overlap and flexibility in the choice of
methods depending on the research context. It's important to carefully consider the research question,
objectives, available resources, and ethical considerations when selecting the most appropriate research
method.

Alternative(Copilot): Certainly! Let’s explore different research methods and their suitability for
various types of questions:
1. Qualitative Research:
o Purpose: To explore ideas, experiences, and meanings.
o Data Form: Words, narratives, and descriptions.
o Examples: Interviews, focus groups, case studies.
o When to Use: When you want rich, in-depth insights or study phenomena that can’t be
quantified numerically1.
2. Quantitative Research:
o Purpose: To develop a mechanistic understanding or test hypotheses.
o Data Form: Numbers, measurements, and statistical analysis.
o Examples: Surveys, experiments, observational studies.
o When to Use: When you need objective, measurable data or want to generalize findings
to larger populations1.
3. Mixed Methods:
o Combines: Qualitative and quantitative approaches.
o When to Use: When you want a comprehensive view, combining depth (qualitative) and
breadth (quantitative) of understanding.

Remember, the choice depends on your research goals and the nature of your question!

Question-10: What are the different types of variables, and what are they used for?
Solution: Certainly! Let’s explore the different types of variables used in research and their purposes:
1. Independent Variable:
o Definition: The variable manipulated by the researcher.
o Purpose: Used to predict changes in the dependent variable.
o Examples: Age, gender, dosage, treatment type12.
2. Dependent Variable:
o Definition: The variable measured or observed to determine the effects of the
independent variable.
o Purpose: Represents the outcome affected by the independent variable.
o Examples: Blood pressure, test scores, reaction time12.
3. Confounding Variable:
o Definition: A variable not directly studied but can impact the relationship between the
independent and dependent variables.
o Purpose: Helps account for potential biases in research results.
o Example: Patient age affecting drug study outcomes1.
4. Mediating Variable:
o Definition: Explains the relationship between the independent and dependent variables.
o Purpose: Comes between the two variables, influencing the dependent variable.
o Example: Metabolism mediating the exercise-weight loss link1.
5. Moderator Variable:
o Definition: Affects the strength or direction of the relationship between the independent
and dependent variables.
o Purpose: Influences the effect of the independent variable.
o Example: Age as a moderator in caffeine-cognitive performance studies1.
6. Control Variable:
o Definition: Held constant by the researcher to isolate the independent variable’s impact.
o Purpose: Ensures observed effects are due to the independent variable.
o Example: Controlling class size, teacher experience in teaching method studies1.

Remember, understanding these variables helps researchers design effective studies!

Alternative(ChatGpt):
In research, variables are the factors or characteristics that are measured, observed, or manipulated.
Variables help researchers understand relationships, make comparisons, and draw conclusions. Here are
different types of variables commonly used in research:
1. Independent Variable: The independent variable is the variable that is manipulated or controlled
by the researcher. It is the factor that is hypothesized to have an effect on the dependent variable.
For example, in a study investigating the effect of a new drug on blood pressure, the independent
variable would be the administration of the drug.
2. Dependent Variable: The dependent variable is the variable that is observed, measured, or
recorded to assess the outcome or response. It is the variable that may be influenced by changes
in the independent variable. In the drug study example, the dependent variable would be the
participants' blood pressure levels.
3. Control Variable: Control variables are the variables that are held constant or controlled to
prevent their influence on the relationship between the independent and dependent variables.
They help ensure that any observed effects can be attributed to the independent variable. For
instance, in a study on the impact of education on income, the researcher may control for
variables like age, gender, or work experience to isolate the effect of education.
4. Confounding Variable: Confounding variables are factors that are not directly of interest in the
study but can influence the relationship between the independent and dependent variables. These
 variables may lead to a misleading interpretation of the results. Researchers try to identify and
control for confounding variables to minimize their impact on the study outcomes.
5. Continuous Variable: A continuous variable is a variable that can take any value within a
certain range. It can be measured on a continuous scale, such as height, weight, or temperature.
Continuous variables allow for precise measurements and statistical analysis.
6. Categorical Variable: Categorical variables are variables that represent distinct categories or
groups. They are often qualitative in nature and can be nominal or ordinal. Examples include
gender (male/female), educational level (high school/college/graduate), or Likert scale responses
(strongly agree/agree/disagree/strongly disagree). Categorical variables are often analyzed using
frequency counts or chi-square tests.
Understanding the different types of variables is crucial for research design, data collection, and analysis.
By properly defining and selecting variables, researchers can investigate relationships, test hypotheses,
and draw meaningful conclusions from their studies.

Question-11: What is an independent variable, and how is it used in the research process?
Solution: An independent variable is a variable that is manipulated or controlled by the researcher in a
research study. It is the factor that is hypothesized to have an effect on the dependent variable. The
independent variable is often abbreviated as "IV."
The use of an independent variable in the research process is essential for studying cause-and-effect
relationships and testing hypotheses. Here's how an independent variable is used:
1. Formulating Research Questions and Hypotheses: The independent variable helps define the
research question and formulate a hypothesis. Researchers identify the specific factor they want
to investigate and predict its effect on the dependent variable.

2. Experimental Design: In experimental research, the independent variable is deliberately

manipulated by the researcher. Different levels or conditions of the independent variable are
created to observe how they impact the dependent variable. This manipulation allows researchers
to establish a cause-and-effect relationship.

3. Measurement and Data Collection: The researcher collects data on both the independent
variable and the dependent variable. The independent variable is typically measured or observed
along with other relevant variables to understand its relationship with the dependent variable.

4. Statistical Analysis: Researchers use statistical analysis techniques to analyze the data and
determine the relationship between the independent variable and the dependent variable. Various
statistical tests, such as regression analysis or analysis of variance (ANOVA), can be employed to
assess the strength and significance of the relationship.

5. Drawing Conclusions: Based on the analysis of the data, researchers interpret the results and
draw conclusions regarding the effect of the independent variable on the dependent variable.
They assess whether the results support or refute the initial hypothesis.

6. Generalization and Application: The findings related to the independent variable can contribute
to the broader understanding of a phenomenon or provide insights for practical applications. They
may guide future research, influence policy decisions, or inform interventions or treatments.

It's important to note that the selection and manipulation of the independent variable should be done
carefully to ensure the validity and reliability of the research. Researchers need to consider ethical
considerations, control for confounding variables, and ensure that the independent variable adequately
represents the concept or factor of interest.

Question-12: What is a dependent variable, and what does the researcher need to be careful about
when selecting and using dependent variables?
Solution: Certainly! Let’s explore dependent variables in research.
A dependent variable (DV) is the “effect” in the relationship between two or more variables. It’s the
outcome that researchers measure or observe. Here are some examples:

1. Health Outcomes (DV) ➡️ Medication Dosage (IV): Researchers measure health outcomes
(like recovery time or symptom severity) based on different medication dosages1.
2. Test Scores (DV) ➡️ Teaching Method (IV): Dependent variables include students’ test scores,
which vary based on the teaching method used1.
3. Weight (DV) ➡️ Diet (IV): Researchers observe weight changes (loss or gain) due to variations
in diet1.

When selecting and using dependent variables, researchers need to be cautious about a few things:

1. Relevance: Choose a dependent variable that directly reflects the research question or hypothesis.
Irrelevant or poorly chosen DVs can lead to misleading conclusions.
2. Measurement Precision: Ensure accurate and reliable measurement methods. Errors in
measurement can affect study validity.
3. Avoiding Confounding Factors: Be aware of other variables (confounding variables) that might
influence the dependent variable. Control for these factors to isolate the true effect of the
independent variable.
4. Avoiding Bias: Researchers should minimize bias when collecting data related to the dependent
variable. Biased data can distort results.

Remember, the dependent variable is what researchers observe or measure to understand the impact of the
independent variable.
Another Definition: A dependent variable is a variable that is observed, measured, or recorded as the
outcome or response in a research study. It is the variable that is hypothesized to be influenced by changes
in the independent variable. The dependent variable is often abbreviated as "DV."

Question-13: What is the relationship between independent and dependent variables?

Solution: The relationship between independent and dependent variables is fundamental in scientific
research. Let’s break it down:

1. Causality: The independent variable (IV) is the cause, while the dependent variable (DV) is the
effect. Researchers manipulate the IV to observe its impact on the DV.
2. Measurement: Researchers measure or observe the DV to understand how changes in the IV
influence it.
3. Graphical Representation: In graphs, the IV is typically on the x-axis, and the DV is on the y-
axis.
 4. Hypotheses: Researchers form hypotheses about how the IV affects the DV (e.g., “Increased
dosage leads to better health outcomes”).

Remember, understanding this relationship helps us uncover cause-and-effect patterns in various fields.

Question-14: In an experiment, how does the notion of a control and an experimental group fit into
the scientific method?
Solution: Certainly! Let’s explore the roles of control and experimental groups in scientific experiments:
1. Control Group:
o The control group serves as a baseline for comparison.
o It does not receive the experimental treatment or intervention.
o Researchers observe the control group to understand natural variation or effects unrelated
to the independent variable.
o Example: In a drug trial, the control group receives a placebo (inactive substance) instead
of the actual drug.
2. Experimental Group:
o The experimental group receives the treatment or intervention being tested.
o Researchers manipulate the independent variable for this group.
o By comparing the experimental group to the control group, researchers determine the
effect of the treatment.
o Example: In the same drug trial, the experimental group receives the active drug.

In summary, control and experimental groups allow researchers to isolate the impact of the independent
variable and draw meaningful conclusions.