Formulating an Alternative Hypothesis
Formulating an alternative hypothesis means identifying the relationships, effects or condition being studied. Based on the data we conclude that there is a different inference from the null-hypothesis being considered.
- Understand the null hypothesis.
- Consider the alternate hypothesis
- Choose the type of alternate hypothesis (one-tailed or two-tailed)
Alternative hypothesis must be true when the null hypothesis is false. When trying to identify the information need for alternate hypothesis statement, look for the following phrases:
- “Is it reasonable to conclude…”
- “Is there enough evidence to substantiate…”
- “Does the evidence suggest…”
- “Has there been a significant…”
When alternative hypotheses in mathematical terms, they always include an inequality (usually ≠, but sometimes < or >). When writing the alternate hypothesis, make sure it never includes an “=” symbol.
To help you write your hypotheses, you can use the template sentences below.
Does independent variable affect dependent variable?
- Null Hypothesis (H0): Independent variable does not affect dependent variable.
- Alternative Hypothesis (Ha): Independent variable affects dependent variable.
Alternative Hypothesis: Definition, Types and Examples
In statistical hypothesis testing, the alternative hypothesis is an important proposition in the hypothesis test. The goal of the hypothesis test is to demonstrate that in the given condition, there is sufficient evidence supporting the credibility of the alternative hypothesis instead of the default assumption made by the null hypothesis.
Both hypotheses include statements with the same purpose of providing the researcher with a basic guideline. The researcher uses the statement from each hypothesis to guide their research. In statistics, alternative hypothesis is often denoted as Ha or H1.
Table of Content
- What is a Hypothesis?
- Alternative Hypothesis
- Types of Alternative Hypothesis
- Difference between Null and Alternative Hypothesis
- Formulating an Alternative Hypothesis
- Example of Alternative Hypothesis
- Application of Alternative Hypothesis
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