What is the scientific method?

The scientific method is fundamentally a structured approach used for developing ideas and conducting research based on available information and observations. It typically starts with identifying a question or problem, gathering data, forming hypotheses, conducting experiments, and analyzing results to draw conclusions. This systematic process allows scientists and researchers to build knowledge progressively and verifies assumptions through evidence.

While the other options present concepts that can be related to scientific inquiry, they don't encapsulate the comprehensive nature of the scientific method as effectively. For instance, simply relying on trial and error (as mentioned in the first option) lacks the rigorous structure and validation found in the scientific method. Similarly, forming hypotheses without data or past experiments does not align with the scientific method's requirement of basing conclusions on evidence and repeated trials in order to confirm findings. The scientific method is specifically designed to build upon existing knowledge, ensuring that new ideas are reliable and grounded in observable phenomena.