The
scientific method is a body of
techniques for investigating
phenomena, acquiring new
knowledge, or correcting and integrating previous knowledge. To be termed scientific, a method of
inquiry is commonly based on
empirical or
measurable evidence subject to specific principles of reasoning. The
Oxford English Dictionary defines the scientific method as "a method or procedure that has characterized natural science since the 17th century, consisting in systematic observation, measurement, and
experiment, and the formulation, testing, and modification of
hypotheses."