Identify Problems

The first step of any scientific method is to identify problems. If you cannot identify problems, you cannot solve them. Identifying problems give you goals of what you are trying to solve.

After you identify problems,  you can proceed to forming hypothesis, conducting science experiments, and finding solutions to the problems. This section of Science Experiment website discusses the first Step of the Scientific Method: Identifying a problem.

The importance of identifying the problem

Why do you need to identify problems. Identifying the problem is important in solving any scientific problems and is key to finding solutions to any scientific questions and science experiments. After all, you cannot solve a scientific problem (or any problems) without knowing what scientific problem you are trying to solve. If you have the ability to identify the problem, then half of the problem is solved.

Before you start any science experiments or start trying to solve any problems, make sure you have identified the problem exactly. In any science experiments, you need to spend a considerable amount of time identifying the problem you are trying to solve to ensure you will not waste your time solving the wrong scientific problem.

As you plan your science project, you should state as clearly as you can the question or problem you will investigate. This is the process of identifying problems. Do this in writing. Spelling it out will help you identify problems you are trying to solve. Sometimes, you think it's obvious what science problems you are trying to solve but spelling it out help clarify it in your mind thus helping you focus and think more clearly.

After you identify problems, write out a description of the scientific method you plan to use to solve the problem you have identified. As you plan scientific method and materials, you will see more clearly how to express your hypothesis and what science experiments will help you find the scientific solutions you are seeking. Your hypothesis should state as clearly and precisely as you can what it is that you expect to prove or disprove.

Click here to go to examples of Scientific Method at work.