If you know about hiking then you are aware to take a map with you on your trip. This map guides you through your hike and shows you where you are, what way you have already realized and how much you will have to go. A map is also very helpful if you are stuck in foggy or snowy weather where you cannot see very much.
Like the map as a not-optional tool for hiking, so is the hypothesis for experiments.
A hypothesis is a helpful guide through your experiment. You can regularly reflect on it and change the experiment if needed. It supports you also if you have defined a fixed end of the experiment to measure your success.
What is a good hypothesis?
The S.M.A.R.T. format — originally from the context of User Stories — can help you define proper hypotheses for your next experiment:
- Specific: It measures one aspect of the experiment.
- Measurable: Be clear how you can prove your hypothesis.
- Achievable: Set realistic goals.
- Relevant: Is the hypothesis relevant to the greater experiment or the context?
- Time-bounded: In which time are you going to achieve the hypothesis?
This framework gives your experiments the structure they need to generate real learning — not just activity.