This document outlines the scientific method, which is a step-by-step process scientists use to answer questions. The key steps are: 1) making an observation and asking a question, 2) conducting background research, 3) formulating a hypothesis, 4) designing and conducting an experiment, 5) collecting and analyzing data, 6) drawing conclusions, and 7) communicating results. The overall process allows hypotheses to be tested systematically through observation, experimentation, and data analysis.